The Missing Ensuite Window: Why Building Stage Inspections in Brisbane Are Critical

When building your dream home, one mistake can lead to costly delays and serious repairs—and one of the most effective ways to protect yourself is through independent building stage inspections.

At BSPI Inspections, we recently inspected a new build in Brisbane where a client engaged us for a fixing stage inspection. Unfortunately, they hadn’t arranged for a frame stage inspection earlier in the build process—and what we found was shocking.

No Ensuite Window—Framed, Cladded, and Plastered Over

Yes, you read that right. The ensuite window was completely missing. The home had been:

• Framed without a window opening

• Cladded over

• Plastered internally

At this stage, the mistake had already progressed far beyond a simple fix. It will now require major reconstruction—removing cladding and internal plaster—to rectify a mistake that should have been picked up much earlier.

Had we been engaged for a frame stage inspection, this defect would have been identified immediately, saving the client time, stress, and thousands in repair costs.

Builder Requesting Payment for Incomplete Work

To make matters worse, the builder was already requesting the fixing stage progress payment, which is typically only due once wet area tiling is completed. In this case:

• The tiling hadn’t been started.

• The home likely hadn’t even met the enclosed stage, which had already been paid for.

This highlights why building progress inspections are not just about catching defects—they’re about verifying that each stage is genuinely complete before payments are made.

Why You Need Stage Inspections in Brisbane

As independent building inspectors servicing all of Brisbane, we’ve seen firsthand how critical stage inspections are at every phase:

• Slab stage

• Frame stage

• Enclosed (Lock-up) stage

• Fixing stage

• Practical completion (PCI)

Each stage of construction has specific quality benchmarks that must be met. By engaging a qualified Brisbane building inspector, you’re ensuring your build is progressing safely, legally, and to a high standard.

Don’t Let the Builder Rush Ahead

Builders work to tight schedules, and sometimes corners get cut—whether by accident or design. Without proper oversight, things can be missed or rushed. Stage inspections are your insurance policy.

At BSPI Inspections, we:

• Provide thorough photographic and written reports

• Are licensed and independent—working solely for you

• Offer fast turnaround times and Brisbane-wide service

Conclusion: Get the Frame Stage Inspection

Had this client booked a frame stage inspection, the missing window would have been flagged immediately. Instead, they’re now facing major rectification costs and disputes with their builder.

Don’t let this happen to you.
If you're building a new home in Brisbane, protect your investment with independent building stage inspections from BSPI.

Book your inspection today
BSPI Inspections – Your Brisbane Stage Inspection Experts