Missed a critical stage inspection? Here’s what it could mean for your final sign-off.

In the rush of a project, things can get missed. But when it comes to critical stage inspections, those missed moments, can have serious implications.

Whether you’re building in NSW or QLD, specific inspections are required by law during construction. And if one of those is missed? It can delay or prevent an Occupation Certificate (OC) or Final Certificate, putting handover and compliance at risk.

This blog is a practical refresher on what you need to know.

What counts as a critical stage inspection?

Critical stage inspections vary slightly between states and depend on the type of development, but they typically include:

• Slab inspections
• Footing inspections
• Framing inspections
• Waterproofing
• Stormwater connection
• Final inspections prior to occupancy

In some cases, additional inspections may also be required by the certifier as a condition of approval. Always check your Approval Documentation (NSW) or Development Permit (QLD) carefully for a full list of what’s expected.

What happens if you miss one?

We get it, emergencies happen, weather conditions change, trades get held up or work progresses faster than expected. But missed inspections are treated seriously and can stop your OC or Final Certificate from being issued until resolved.

If a critical inspection is missed your certifier must:

• Notify the applicant or owner
• Assess whether the inspection was missed because of unavoidable circumstances
• Determine whether the works are still satisfactory despite not being inspected

These conditions must be met to move forward.

What counts as unavoidable?

The certifier must be satisfied that the inspection was missed due to circumstances outside of anyone’s direct control and that the reason is clearly explained and documented where it does not cover situations of inadvertence, inconvenience or impracticality.

Fair Trading has provided advice on this, but requirements have evolved, so it’s important to be guided by up-to-date legislation and your certifier’s judgement.

What happens if works can’t be uncovered?

Ideally, if the stage hasn’t progressed too far, the missed area can be exposed for inspection.

If that’s not possible, your certifier may accept supporting evidence such as:

• Time-stamped photos
• An engineer’s inspection report or statement
• Component certificates from contractors
• Evidence of suitability as per NCC/BCA A5G3

In many cases, a combination of these will be required.

Avoiding delays

The best way to avoid setbacks is through clear communication and forward planning. Make sure you’re familiar with the inspection schedule and speak with your certifier early if anything changes.

A top tip of ours is that assigning a clear point of contact to manage inspection bookings helps avoid confusion and ensures nothing slips through the cracks.

And if a critical stage is missed? Reach out straight away, the sooner it’s addressed, the more likely it can be resolved without major delays.

Missed an inspection?Our team are here to help, however we can.

Get in touch today