What Are the Mandatory Building Inspections for Victoria
March 5, 2021Every Victorian construction must follow the Building Code of Australia. The professional in charge of reinforcing this law is the building surveyor. This professional carries out all the building inspections. Depending on the situation, inspectors replace surveyors. In this case, they can speak on the surveyor’s behalf. Both know the Building Code of Australia in detail.
They’re recognised professionals by the local authorities. They’re also registered in the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors. Some attributions of the surveyor have changed over the past decades. In the past, they would work with the local authorities to ensure adequate legislation for different types of building.
Every construction project in Australia must undergo a set of mandatory inspections. Those inspections are managed by the local authorities to ensure the project complies with the Australian Standards of civil construction. The Australian law states that each construction stage requires a specific building permit, attesting it’s compliant with the current building regulations.
Mandatory Building Inspections
Here’s a concise list of every mandatory inspection stage in Victoria, according to the local law.
- Foundation and Footing Inspections
It’s the first stage, where the concrete slab, soil, and foundations go under inspection. At this point, the building surveyor should check whether the project is being built where the approved plan determines. Other details must be approved, such as adequate width and depth of footings.
- Reinforcement
Every slab reinforcement must go under a slab inspection. It’s done to make sure the plastic covers all the slab surface and uses the correct reinforcement steel.
It happens before the installation of walls and roofing materials. It’s crucial to do it beforehand, so any necessary change is more readily applicable. At this stage, the whole framing structure is analysed and measured to ensure it’s all according to the plan. Any modifications not agreed upon on the original plan must be reapproved.
- Occupancy Permit
It can be issued before the end of the project, but sometimes it can be given before. It guarantees that the place is ready for occupation. So, facilities such as shower, toilet, laundry and kitchen, smoke alarms, a plumbing certificate and a House Energy Rating Report regarding electricity.
- Final Inspection
It is what it says. After the whole building work is over, there’s still one last inspection, checking for stormwater connection. Extensions and new dwellings need a pre-final inspection.
Every step of the mandatory building inspections in Melbourne is designed to ensure a standard safety and comfort regarding habitability. You can check your surveyor’s credentials on the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors. Also, check if your building surveyor or inspector has professional indemnity insurance. This insurance guarantees compensation for any financial losses you may suffer due to mistakes or ill advice. Usually, the builder’s company deals with those details. But, in case you need to arrange those inspections by yourself, now you know what to expect and what steps to follow.
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