Lockup Inspection Perth: What to Check Before Your Build Progresses
A lockup inspection in Perth provides an independent assessment of accessible building work once your new home is secure. It can identify defects and incomplete work before the next construction stage makes them harder to inspect.
At Master Building Inspectors, experienced WA registered builders conduct independent stage inspections across Perth. You receive a photographic report within 24 hours, helping you raise identified issues with your builder promptly.
However, timing matters. Lockup, pre-lining and waterproofing inspections may require separate visits, depending on the construction method and building programme.
What Does Lockup Stage Mean?
Lockup generally describes the point when the roof covering, external doors and windows allow the home to be secured. The exact stage requirements depend on your building contract and the builder’s construction sequence.
There is no single completion percentage that reliably describes every home at lockup.
Importantly, Perth homes use different construction methods. A double-brick home does not follow the same internal wall construction sequence as a timber-framed home. Therefore, inspections should be scheduled around the work available for assessment, rather than the stage name alone.
Is Lockup the Same as Pre-Plaster?
Not necessarily. Lockup describes the home being secure. Pre-plaster or pre-lining describes an inspection before relevant wall surfaces or framing are covered.
These inspections may overlap. However, plastering or lining work can occur at different points in the building programme.
For framed construction, a pre-lining inspection can assess accessible framing and connections before sheeting conceals them. For masonry construction, inspecting brickwork before render or plaster is applied allows more of the wall construction to be examined.
Tell your inspector what work is complete and what the builder plans to do next. This helps determine the most useful inspection timing.
What Does a Lockup Inspection in Perth Check?
The inspection scope depends on the agreed service, construction progress and safe access. The following items may be assessed where installed and accessible.
Roof Covering and Drainage
Checks may include roof tiles or sheeting, visible flashings, gutters and downpipes. We look for apparent damage, incomplete installation and visible workmanship defects.
Accessible roof framing may also be assessed where included in the inspection scope. However, a lockup visit does not replace earlier roof frame checks where important connections have since been concealed.
External Walls, Windows and Doors
We assess accessible wall construction and visible window and door installation. Items may include damaged components, incomplete sealing, visible flashing details and operation where components are ready for testing.
Our brickwork inspections in Perth provide further information about checks at plate height.
Accessible Internal Building Work
Depending on progress, internal checks may cover visible framing, masonry, openings and installed insulation.
Only accessible work can be assessed. For example, insulation that has not yet been installed cannot be checked during that visit. Similarly, concealed fixings and covered wall cavities cannot be fully examined visually.
Visible Plumbing and Electrical Work
Visible service installations may reveal apparent issues affecting surrounding building work. These observations are limited to the agreed building inspection scope.
A general stage inspection does not certify electrical or plumbing installations. Specialist testing and certification require appropriately licensed trades.
When Should Waterproofing Be Inspected?
Arrange waterproofing checks after the membrane has been installed and before tiling or other finishes conceal it.
This may occur after lockup and after relevant wall substrates have been installed. Waterproofing should therefore not automatically be treated as a pre-plasterboard inspection.
For example, manufacturer guidance describes wet-area membranes applied to installed wall lining. The inspection needs to match the actual system and construction sequence. See James Hardie’s wet-area construction guide.
Our waterproofing inspections in Perth assess accessible membrane installation before it is covered. Confirm timing with your builder so the inspection can take place before tiling begins.
Lockup Inspection Versus Practical Completion Inspection
Each inspection assesses the work available at a different stage.
| Inspection | Main purpose | Timing |
|---|---|---|
| Lockup | Assess accessible building work as the home becomes secure | According to construction progress and the agreed scope |
| Pre-plaster or pre-lining | Assess relevant work before plaster or sheeting conceals it | Before the surfaces being checked are covered |
| Waterproofing | Assess accessible installed waterproofing | After membrane installation and before covering |
| Practical completion | Assess completed finishes, fittings, visible defects and incomplete work | As the home approaches handover |
A practical completion inspection remains valuable even when earlier stage inspections have been completed. However, it cannot reveal every defect in work concealed during construction.
What Will Your Inspection Report Include?
Master Building Inspectors provides a clear photographic report within 24 hours of inspection.
The report identifies observed defects and incomplete work, with locations and supporting photographs. Relevant NCC provisions, Australian Standards or workmanship guidance are referenced where applicable.
Inspection limitations are also recorded. This helps you understand which areas were assessed and which items could not be checked.
Our inspections provide independent advice. They do not replace statutory certification or guarantee that every defect will be identified.
What Should You Do If Defects Are Found?
Review the report and send it to your builder. Ask for a written response explaining how identified items will be addressed.
Where work will soon be concealed, discuss rectification and any necessary reinspection promptly. Keep the report, photographs and correspondence together.
An inspection report documents findings; it does not change your contract’s payment terms. Obtain advice specific to your contract if a defect creates a payment dispute.
Booking a Lockup Inspection in Perth
Contact MBI early and provide your site address, construction type and expected stage date. Share available plans and explain which work is scheduled next.
We can then discuss a suitable inspection time and scope. Our new construction inspections in Perth cover key stages throughout the build, with individual inspections available to suit your requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I book a lockup inspection for a double-brick home?
Yes. The checks are tailored to accessible work and construction progress. Let us know whether internal plastering has started.
Does lockup automatically include waterproofing checks?
No. Waterproofing must be installed and accessible to be assessed. A separate pre-tiling visit may be needed.
Is it too late if internal linings are already installed?
An inspection can still assess accessible work. However, covered framing, connections and other concealed elements may no longer be visible.
How quickly will I receive my report?
MBI delivers inspection reports within 24 hours, allowing you to raise identified issues promptly.
How much does a lockup inspection cost?
Contact MBI for a current quote. Pricing depends on the property, location and agreed inspection scope.
Book Your Perth Stage Inspection
Have your new home assessed by an independent WA registered builder before the next stage progresses.
Call 1300 852 496 or email info@masterbuildinginspectors.com.au to discuss your inspection requirements.