When you need independent advice about a property dispute with your builder, your neighbour, your landlord, your tenant, your family, or your insurer, call us to provide impartial reporting based on the Building Codes and Australian Standards. Not sure whether to renovate or knock-down an existing structure and want help understanding the risks and costs? Houspect Victoria offers expert Building Dispute and Defect Inspection services to help resolve disputes and identify defects quickly and effectively giving you the detail you need to address property problems confidently.

About Investigation Inspections

A Defect Investigation is an independent evaluation of construction work to identify any defects or areas of non-compliance with building standards. Whether you’re a homeowner, builder, or property manager, our inspections provide a thorough assessment and written report with measurements and photographs of the defects/issues. The report will provide evidence of causes which will help resolve disputes.

Our inspection method and written report provides 3 clear sections;

1. Description of defects, problems, damage, condition.
2. Inspector’s comments on causes and contributing factors regarding the structure, materials, workmanship, design, drainage issues, safety matters etc, as appropriate to problems on site.
3. Recommendations on how to rectify/repair the property defects in a Scope of Works. Cost estimates for repairs and rectifications can be provided if requested.

When Do You Need a Defect and Investigation Inspection?

• During Construction: If you suspect poor workmanship or non-compliance with the building codes or the specifications in your building contract. You can call us before or after you go to the DBDRV. See details regarding an expert witness/VCAT-compliant report
• Stop Work: You have terminated the building contract, or the builder is insolvent (work has stopped on your project), and you need an independent site inspection and report of the current status of the project. Our report establishes the construction stage and condition of the “as built” to date for reference by the insurer and the new builder.
• Post-Construction: To identify defects or incomplete work before finalising a payment.
• Renovation Projects: Ensuring that renovations meet building codes, specifications and quality expectations.
• Established properties: Concerned about cracking, subsidence, deterioration, balcony leaks, bathroom leaks, roof leaks, flooding, stormwater problems, fences and retaining walls leaning. Need a maintenance report or a Strata property report – refer to Houspect Victoria Strata Investigation & Work Schedule Reports.

An independent report from Houspect provides valuable unbiased data so the parties can resolve disputes, which protects your investment and ensures the work is completed to a satisfactory standard.

What’s Included in a Houspect Building Dispute & Defect Report?

• Thorough Defect Identification: A detailed assessment of all accessible and visible defects, incomplete works and areas of concern.
• Photographic Evidence: High-quality images accompany every property defect.
• Clear Explanations: The written report explains the causes of defects and issues, contributing factors, and discusses the requirements of the building codes and building practice require.
• Actionable Recommendations: Recommendations on how to fix the problems including a breakdown of repairs in a Scope of Works. Cost estimates for repairs and rectifications can also be provided. Cost estimates are required for VCAT reports.

Our Building Investigation Reports list all items that do not meet building codes or acceptable standards of workmanship. Any completed work not compliant with current building plans, the National Construction Codes, or not within standards and tolerances will be listed in the Report.

Why Choose Houspect?

With over 40 years of experience, Houspect is trusted by homeowners, builders, and property managers across Victoria. Our inspectors are VBA-licensed builders (DBU) and independent, ensuring impartiality and detail at every inspection. We are committed to helping you navigate the complexities of building disputes with professional, reliable reporting.

If you’re unable to resolve your building defect issues directly with your builder, you may need to approach the DBDRV. They are likely to advise you to book a comprehensive Building Defects Inspection that provides you with an unbiased, expert opinion as evidence to support your case. Houspect can assist you with that service with defects reports, photographs and references to the relevant building codes and standards.

Depending on how matters proceed, you may need to consider lodging a dispute with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for resolution.

Get Help with Building Disputes Today

If you’re dealing with any construction issues or maintenance problems, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Houspect Victoria to schedule a Building Investigation Inspection. Our experienced team is here to provide you with the detailed insights and support you need to resolve disputes effectively.

To book a Building Defects Inspection, call Houspect on 03 9808 4000, email us at info@houspectvic.com.au or complete our online enquiry form.