Building a home doesn’t have to be overwhelming! The process can be simplified into clear, manageable steps to help you prepare for an exciting journey. Throughout every stage, you’ll have a builder by your side, guiding you to ensure the experience is both rewarding and memorable.
Below are the six key stages and timelines involved in constructing a brand-new home.
1. The Base Stage
At this stage, your plot of land is prepared for construction. This includes site excavation and the installation of underground connections. The base stage is considered complete once the concrete slab has been poured.
When this stage is finalized, a 15% progress payment is required. At this point, a temporary fence will also be installed around the property for safety and security.
2. The Frame Stage
This is where your home really starts to take shape. Once the slab is in place, the walls are outlined based on your final plans, followed by the construction of the walls and roof trusses.
After the frame is fully erected, a 20% progress payment becomes due.
Before moving forward, a qualified Building Certifier will inspect and approve the frame once the roof, windows, external doors, and essential services—such as plumbing and electrical—are installed.
Additionally, the Site Supervisor will verify that all customer variations are correct before continuing to the next step.
3. The Lock-Up / Enclosed Stage
This stage is an important milestone as your home can now be securely “locked up.” This involves installing windows, brickwork, and wall cladding.
Temporary external doors may also be added to ensure the home’s security during construction.
Upon completion of this stage, a 25% progress payment is required.
4. The Fixing and Fit-Off Stages
Fixing Stage
During this phase, internal plastering is completed, and elements like architraves, skirting boards, built-in cabinets, and built-in cupboards (excluding shelves) are installed.
Next, tiles are placed in all wet areas of the home, such as bathrooms and laundry rooms.
Fit-Off Stage
Once tiling is complete, a painter will begin work on the walls, ceilings, trims, and external finishes.
This phase focuses on interior details, bringing your color selections and design choices to life.
Plumbing and electrical fixtures are also fitted, along with shower screens, mirrors, door hardware, and floor coverings, if required.
5. Practical Completion Inspection (PCI)
Two weeks before settlement, your Site Supervisor will walk you through your nearly finished home. This is your chance to see the house up close, understand its features, and address any concerns before handover.
At this point, the Quality Team will also conduct a final inspection to ensure everything meets the expected standards of workmanship and finish.
Following these inspections, the final progress payment of 15%—including any extra variations—is due. This must be settled before the official handover so you can receive your keys on settlement day.
6. The Handover
The final step marks the culmination of your home-building journey. Once you receive your keys, it’s time to celebrate this major milestone and enjoy your new home!
Post-Construction and Home Assurance
Most builders provide a maintenance period of 3–12 months to address any minor issues that may arise after moving in.
This timeframe allows the house to settle naturally across all four seasons.
Additionally, builders often offer a structural warranty or guarantee, which may range from seven to fifty years, giving you long-term peace of mind and confidence in your investment.
