1. Pre-construction
Design, engineering, energy and structural documentation, approvals, and the building contract. Then selections: fixtures, fittings, colours, joinery.
This stage takes longer than most people plan for, and it is the stage you control. Every change you make after this point costs money and time.
2. Site preparation and slab
Clearing, levelling, drainage, footings and the slab or basement. This is where unforeseen site conditions appear — rock, water, fill, or an undocumented service.
Weather and inspection timing both live here. A slab pour needs a run of dry days.
3. Frame
Wall frames, roof trusses and sheathing go up. This is the first stage where you can stand on the block and see the shape of the house.
Walk it before the linings go on. Check the proportions of the rooms, where the lights and switches will land, and where the furniture will actually sit.
4. Lock-up
External walls, windows, front door and roof are installed — the house is weathertight and the interior work can begin.
This is a common progress payment milestone, so your bank will want the stage certified.
5. Fixing
Plasterboard, insulation, cabinetry, joinery, benchtops, tiling, internal painting, and the plumbing and electrical fit-out.
This is the longest stage and the one most affected by trades being booked elsewhere. It is also where your selections arrive on site, so make sure they are the ones you chose.
6. Practical completion
Final plumbing and electrical connections, flooring, mirrors, screens, cleaning, and the final inspection. You get the keys and a list of defects to be fixed.
Do the walk-through in daylight, with the contract and your selections list in hand, and write everything down. Photograph it too.
7. Defects liability period
Most contracts give the builder a set period after completion to return and fix defects that appear, and your state may give you statutory warranty cover beyond that.
Keep the list, keep the dates, and send it in writing so there is a record of when you reported it.