Frame Stage

Once the building has been dried, poured and inspected the next step in construction will be framing of the structure. After framing is completed, the second level of inspection – frame stage inspection. An inspector is brought in to check whether the frame conforms to the plan.

Frame inspection is carried out after the frame has been approved by the private builder appointed Building Surveyor. It ensures a more detailed inspection including checking of the following.

• The poured concrete slab for all exposed steel around the perimeter
• Any blow-out along the edges can potentially block the cavity width
• Any bottom plate overhang; which if not rectified will almost always allow rotation of the wall bottom plates
• The finish of the concrete also needs to be checked for excessive dusting or cracking
• Floor levelness wherever possible and whenever applicable
• Conformity of the constructed wall frames to building code; and correct installation for bracing
• Roof truss installation and bracing; tie down straps
• Appropriate placement of walls, windows and doors
• Whether the approved engineering design and as-built structure is compliant to the laws
• Connection of one frame to another
• A visual check for the installation of a perimeter termite barrier
• The standards of fascia and gutter installation with a visual check
• Subsidence

Stages of Frame Inspection

Subsidence – To ensure a building has proper subsidence an inspector will have to check for caving, sloping and shrinkage.

Structural Members – This stage entails detailed inspection of the beams, lintels and columns.

Site Conditions – Ensures that the landscaping, paving, fencing, driveways and storm water of the building are all properly checked for and detailed according to the plan.

The inspection report reflects the defects, deficiencies and non-conformity issues. Focus should also be on structural material compliance, wind braces, stress grades, lintel and lintel supports, horizontal wind beams, point loads, load transfer connection to the roofs and/or floor diaphragm, ceiling height, tie-down, framing straight and secure.

Inspex Building and Pest Consultants operates across Queensland. Our building handover completion stage inspectors are able to reveal all defects to determine compatibility to building standards. Contact us for an extensive inspection of the building for standards of compliance and workmanship.  Contact our offices in the Gold Coast or Brisbane for a consultation.