Building Inspection Blog - Expert Tips & Advice
Expert insights, tips, and advice for property buyers, builders, and homeowners across Southeast Queensland.
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Top 5 Defects Found at PCI in Brisbane New Homes in 2026
Across hundreds of PCI inspections in Brisbane and SEQ, these are the defects we find most often — and what they cost you if your builder hands them over unresolved.

29mm Out Over 600mm… and This Is AFTER Enclosure?
When we're pulling out a level after the house is enclosed and finding bulkheads 29mm out over 600mm, it stops being a 'mistake' and starts looking like pure negligence. If something this obvious is missed — or ignored — what else have they buried behind the plaster?
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We Flagged This at Frame Stage… and They Ignored It
This post was out of plumb at frame stage, and we told the builder exactly what needed to be fixed. Now we're back for the Enclosed & Waterproofing Inspection… and the same post is still out of plumb. No correction. No attempt. If this same defect is still present at PCI, we will name and shame the builder publicly.
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Slab Edge Defect Found — Exposed Reinforcement Steel
We identified open voids along a slab edge where the concrete has failed to encase the steel. This breaches NCC Part 3.2.3.2 and AS 2870 requirements for concrete cover and vibration. Exposed steel = future corrosion + structural damage.
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How Many Defects Can YOU See?
This is from a frame inspection we did this week. At first glance it's just a bit of water… but look closer — there are multiple issues that should never be on a new build. How many defects can you spot?
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The Importance of Installing Sliding Doors Correctly
When sliding doors aren't installed properly, the issues don't just show up later — they start on day one. A correctly installed sliding door should sit level, glide smoothly, seal properly, and protect your home from water ingress, drafts, pests, and future structural damage.
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Site Vandalism at Practical Completion Inspection
Walked into today's PCI to find the site broken into, flooded, and grout poured straight into the sinks. Someone went out of their way to vandalise a brand-new home — on the eve of practical completion. It's hard to believe anyone could take pride in destroying what others have worked so hard to build.
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'It's Only 7mm — No One Will Notice'… We Did.
A floor that's 7mm out of level doesn't meet NCC 2022 tolerances — and that means it's not good enough. At VG Inspect, we check every surface, every detail, every time. Because near enough isn't good enough.
Laser Precision Leaves No Room for Error
VG Inspect identifies misalignments and ceiling defects before they become expensive fixes. Our laser technology catches what the naked eye misses, ensuring NCC 2022 compliance and protecting your investment.
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'It's Just a Small Gap — No One Will See It'… We See It.
Small gaps can lead to big problems. Poor finishing like this isn't just cosmetic — it's a non-compliance issue under NCC 2022 and can trap moisture, leading to bigger problems later. At VG Inspect, we catch what others miss.
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