mandatory Critical Stage building inspections
The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 requires mandatory critical stage inspections to be carried out at the following stages of construction:
- Piers/footings (prior to pouring concrete)
- Slab (prior to pouring concrete)
- Stormwater (prior to covering connections)
- Frame (prior to sheeting walls/ceiling)
- Wet Areas (prior to covering any waterproofing)
- Final (after building work has been completed)
Inspections may also be required for the following:
- Separating Walls (fire/acoustic)
- Pool steel
- Swimming Pool Barriers
The issuing of an Occupation Certificate may be jeopardised if a critical stage inspection is missed.
Under the cl.163 of Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulations 2000, the principal contractor for the building site, or the owner-builder, must notify the Principal Certifier at least 48 hours before each required inspections needs to be carried out.