It happens regularly. A buyer contacts VG Inspect to book a PCI or stage inspection, then comes back and says — my builder told me they don't allow independent inspectors on site. What do I do?
Here is exactly what your rights are — and the steps to take.
Your Legal Right to an Independent Inspection in Queensland
In Queensland, the right to arrange an independent building inspection during construction is well-established. The Queensland Building and Construction Commission Act and the standard domestic building contract both support the buyer's right to have their home independently inspected.
A builder cannot legally prevent you from having an independent inspection carried out at Practical Completion. The handover process requires you to inspect the property before accepting it. You are entitled to have a qualified person assist with that inspection.
What to Do If Your Builder Pushes Back
Step 1: Put it in writing. If your builder verbally says independent inspections are not allowed, respond in writing — email is fine. State that you wish to arrange an independent QBCC-licensed building inspection before practical completion and that you require written confirmation of the date and time access will be available.
Step 2: Reference your contract. Most standard domestic building contracts include provisions for the buyer to inspect the property at practical completion. Review your contract and reference the relevant clause in your written request.
Step 3: Contact QBCC. If the builder refuses access in writing or ignores your request, contact QBCC on 139 333. Unreasonable restriction of access for independent inspection is a matter QBCC can address.
Why Some Builders Push Back
Builders who push back on independent inspections are typically not doing so because they believe their homes are defect-free. They are doing so because independent inspections slow down the settlement process and require rectification of items they would prefer to pass through uncontested.
Understanding this motivation makes the pushback easier to navigate. Your inspector is there to protect your investment. The builder's resistance is, if anything, a reason to be more persistent rather than less.
Ready to book your inspection? A VG Inspect QBCC-licensed inspector attends every job.
Book an InspectionMetricon, Coral Homes, Brighton Homes and Most Major Builders
[Metricon](/builders/[metricon](/builders/metricon)), [Coral Homes](/builders/coral-homes), [Brighton Homes](/builders/[brighton](/brighton)-homes), [GJ Gardner](/builders/gj-gardner), [Plantation Homes](/builders/plantation-homes), and the majority of volume builders across SEQ routinely accommodate independent inspectors at PCI stage. Their site supervisors are professional and cooperative. The conflict is the exception, not the rule.
VG Inspect has never been permanently refused access by a major volume builder. Site supervisors understand that independent inspections are a standard part of the new home buying process.
Book your inspection. Know your rights. QBCC licence 1318443.
