What is a Quality Assurance or QA Inspection? 

A Quality Assurance (QA) inspection is a proactive building inspection carried out to review the condition and workmanship of a building after construction.

Unlike the mandatory NSW Strata Building Bond and Inspections Scheme (SBBIS) process, QA inspections are usually undertaken earlier in the building’s lifecycle to help identify potential issues.

Waratah Consulting is engaged by developers as an independent inspection consultant to carry out these inspections. Our role is to assess key areas of the building, document any observable defects, and provide clear reporting so issues can be addressed as early as possible.

Early inspections help support better outcomes for residents, owners, and the building as a whole.

Why My apartment?

Participation in the Quality Assurance (QA) inspection program is usually optional, however it is strongly encouraged as it allows any potential issues within apartments to be identified early.

By providing access for inspection, residents and owners can benefit from:

  • Early identification of building defects that may not yet be visible externally
  • The opportunity for issues to be addressed sooner, before they become more complex
  • Helping maintain the overall quality and performance of the building
  • Supporting a smoother process for the building’s upcoming statutory inspections

QA inspections typically include:

  • Apartments and balconies

  • Visible finishes and building elements such as walls, ceilings, windows, and doors

  • Selected common areas of the building

Even small issues — such as minor leaks, cracking, or sealing problems — can sometimes indicate larger construction defects. Reviewing these areas early helps ensure potential issues are identified and addressed promptly.

SBBIS Apartment Inspection

The Inspection Process

 

To keep the inspection program running efficiently, inspections are scheduled over set inspection days covering apartments and common areas.

  • Appointments are typically booked in 30-minute time slots.

  • Residents can choose a time that suits them from the available booking options.

  • You may also let the inspector know about any concerns you'd like reviewed during the visit.

  • Booking confirmations and reminders are sent by email and SMS.

  • Appointments can usually be rescheduled up to 24 hours in advance using the booking link.

If you cannot be home during the inspection, you may nominate a friend, neighbour, or building manager to provide access.

Our inspections are visual only. Inspectors do not move furniture or handle personal items. To assist with a thorough inspection, we ask that the property is reasonably tidy and key areas such as balconies, windows, and wet areas are accessible.

Because inspections are scheduled over a limited timeframe, we may not be able to return once the inspection period has passed. Booking early helps ensure your property can be included in the program.