Building & Construction Inspectors Pty Ltd
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Owner Builder Defect Reports
Before purchasing a property, arrange an Owner Builders Inspection Report. We are Qualified Licenced BuilderIn Victoria, owner-builders who have undertaken construction work on their property must obtain a Section 137B Defects Inspection Report if they intend to sell within 6 years and 6 months of completing the work.
What is an Owner Builder Inspection Report?
Section 137B Report in Melbourne Victoria
The Owner Builders Defect report, conducted by a qualified building practitioner, identifies any defects in the owner-built work, ensuring buyers are informed before purchase. It is a legal requirement under the Building Act 1993 (VIC) to promote transparency and protect buyers from hidden issues.
Furthermore, if the building work exceeds $16,000 in value, the owner-builder must also secure domestic building insurance before selling. This insurance provides coverage for the buyer in case the owner-builder passes away, becomes insolvent, or cannot be located. Adhering to Section 137B helps ensure a smooth sale process and reduces the risk of legal complications.
What’s Included in an Owner Builder Inspection Report?
An Owner Builder Inspection Report typically includes the following:
- Exterior Inspection: Checking for issues such as cracks, leaks, and poor workmanship.
- Structural Evaluation: Ensuring the foundation, walls, and roof are sound and meet regulatory standards.
- Plumbing & Electrical Systems Check: Verifying that all plumbing and electrical installations are properly done and compliant with regulations.
- Finishings Inspection: Inspecting the quality of finishings such as paint, tiles, flooring, and cabinetry.
- Safety Compliance Review: Ensuring that the building meets safety standards to protect its future inhabitants.
Why Choose Us for Your Owner Builder Defect Report.
✅ Experienced in Owner Builder Inspections – Our team understands the specific requirements of Owner Builder Defect Reports in Victoria. We assess your property thoroughly to ensure compliance with the Building Act 1993 and other relevant regulations.
✅ Detailed & Easy-to-Understand Reports – We provide clear, comprehensive reports that highlight defects, potential issues, and necessary rectifications, making the process straightforward for homeowners, buyers, and insurers.
✅ Fast Turnaround Times – We know time is critical, especially if you're preparing to sell. Our reports are delivered promptly to help you meet legal obligations and avoid delays.
✅ Independent & Unbiased Assessments – Our inspections are completely independent, ensuring that the report reflects the true condition of the property without external influence.
✅ Melbourne-Based Expertise – We have in-depth knowledge of Victorian building regulations, giving you confidence that our reports meet all legal requirements.
✅ HIA Members – As registered members of the HIA, we bring industry-backed expertise to every inspection, ensuring your home is checked to the highest standards. We follow HIA's Code of Ethics.
Who Needs an Owner Builder Defect Report?
An Owner Builder Defect Report is required for:
✔ Owner Builders Selling Their Property – In Victoria, if an owner-builder is selling a home they built within six and a half years of completion, they are required to provide a defects inspection report from a registered building practitioner to potential buyers, and must also have domestic building insurance in place to cover the work they carried out.
✔ Buyers Purchasing from an Owner Builder – If you're buying a home from an owner builder, this report gives you a detailed overview of any defects or structural concerns before you commit to the purchase.
✔ Real Estate Agents & Conveyancers – Ensuring compliance with legal requirements helps avoid contract issues and protects both buyers and sellers.
✔ Insurers Processing Warranty Claims – If an owner builder warranty claim is made, insurers often require a professional defect report to assess liability and coverage.