Constructing a new home is a rollercoaster ride from start to finish. Organisation and planning are key to a successful project. If you follow these 13 steps you will have a smoother transition from design to completion.
Site Preparation
The first stage of construction is the clearing of the site. This involves pegging out by a surveyor. Depending on construction needs, you may need to build retaining walls during site preparation.
Slab
Before the slab is poured a plumber will come in to install your plumbing underneath where the slab is formed prior to the piering taking place. Homeowners usually get a kick out of that stage because they can see the pieces starting to come together.
Frames and Roof Trusses
Erecting frames doesn’t usually involve any complications in the Northern Territory as they are put together and brought to the site ready to go up. At this stage you will begin to see the design of your home in the location and approximate size of the rooms.
Roof Tiling
Depending on how your contractor prefers to do things, the roof may be installed before brickwork. The reason for this is to protect the frames as quickly as possible, assuring the structural integrity of your new home.
Brickwork
The brickwork stage really starts to bring to life the shape of your new home.
Rough Ins
The last thing to take place prior to the internal linings being put in is the installation of your electrical and plumbing wiring and pipes.
Internal Linings
Next, insulation is completed in the walls and ceilings. Your contractor or builder will now move onto the linking of walls and ceilings.
Tiling and Waterproofing
The wet areas in your new home need to be waterproofed before any tiles can be installed. This stage can take place after the mould out. Some builders may even waterproof during the mould out.
Timber Mould Out
All those final touches that are carried out by the carpenters. You will start to see skirting boards, door jams, kitchens, architraves and doors occupying those empty or incomplete spaces.
Lock Up
You need external doors for all buildings to make sure your home is secure. This stage of construction is known as “lock up.” If the home isn’t secure at this stage, ensure that this is completed before construction continues.
P.C. Fit Out
P.C. is the term for Prime Cost item and describes the stage where features such as mirrors, vanities and baths are put in. Are you starting to see yourself making a home here? Construction is almost complete.
Practical Completion
At practical completion is the stage when your new home is inspected. The builders aren’t quite finished but this time gives you a chance to do a walk-through with the site manager. If you find any defects you can ask the contractor to fix the issue and touch up any features where it is needed.
Handover
You are about to get the keys to your new home. Are you happy with the results? Pay the contractors final invoice and the handover of the property will take place. Congratulations on moving in to your Northern Territory dream home.
If you need construction stage inspections in the Northern Territory, Houspect uses modern technologies to enhance the reports we provide to our customers. We can help you get through the construction process with all the information you need on each stage of the build. Call today to find out more.
