A defect report can be overwhelming: dozens of items, technical language and photos of cracks and stains. Whether it came from a building consultant, an engineer, an insurer or a pre-purchase inspection, the next steps are the same.
1. Sort the defects by urgency
- Safety: falling concrete, unsafe balustrades, structural cracking, electrical hazards. Act immediately.
- Water getting in: leaks through roofs, balconies, facades and wet areas. These cause most of the damage that follows.
- Structural and durability: concrete cancer, corroded steel, movement cracking.
- Compliance: fire safety, access and Building Code items.
- Cosmetic: finishes that can wait until the causes are fixed.
2. Make sure causes are identified
A good report says why a defect is happening, not just that it exists. If the report lists "cracked render" but not the cause, ask whether water, movement or corroding steel is behind it. Fixing symptoms without causes is why repairs fail.
3. Turn the report into a scope builders can price
For larger jobs, an engineer or consultant writes a specification. Every builder then prices the same work, so quotes can be compared fairly. Without this, one builder may price a proper repair and another a patch.
4. Get itemised quotes
Ask for line-by-line pricing, the repair method for each item, access and staging costs, rates for extra work found once opened up, and what documentation you will receive. Our guide to comparing remedial building quotes has a checklist.
5. Check the builder
- NSW builder licence covering the work.
- DBP registration for Class 2 apartment buildings.
- Insurance and statutory warranties.
- Experience with the specific defects in your report.
If the building is new
For recently completed buildings, defects may be covered by statutory warranties under the Home Building Act 1989 or the strata building bond scheme. Get advice on your rights before arranging your own repairs, as it can affect claims against the original builder.
We price defect reports
Send us your report and we will give you an itemised rectification quote, item by item. See our defect rectification service or call 0415 840 500.
Frequently asked questions
What should I fix first from a defect report?
Safety items first, then anything letting water in, then structural and durability defects, then compliance and cosmetic items.
Can a builder quote directly from a defect report?
Yes, but for larger jobs an engineer's specification makes quotes comparable and ensures causes are fixed, not just symptoms.
Are defects in a new building covered by warranty?
Often, under the Home Building Act 1989 statutory warranties or the strata building bond scheme. Get advice before arranging your own repairs.
