Steel Frame Inspection Checklist for Australian Owner-Builders

Steel Frame Inspection Checklist for Australian Owner-Builders

1. Introduction

Building your own home as an owner-builder in Australia is an incredibly rewarding endeavour, offering unparalleled control over your project and significant cost savings. However, with this freedom comes immense responsibility, particularly in ensuring the structural integrity, safety, and compliance of your build. For those opting for steel frame kit homes, a critical phase in the construction journey is the steel frame inspection. This comprehensive guide is specifically designed for intermediate-level Australian owner-builders, providing an in-depth, actionable framework for inspecting your steel structure. We'll delve into the 'why' and 'how' of proper steel frame inspection, addressing Australian regulatory requirements, practical considerations for kit homes, common pitfalls, and safety protocols.

Steel framing, particularly using quality products like BlueScope Steel's TRUECORE®, offers numerous advantages, including durability, termite resistance, and straight, true walls. However, even with prefabricated kits, meticulous attention during assembly and inspection is paramount. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to ensure your steel frame meets the National Construction Code (NCC) requirements and relevant Australian Standards (AS/NZS), preparing your home for subsequent stages and ultimately, a safe and compliant occupancy. Understanding this process thoroughly is not just about ticking boxes; it's about safeguarding your investment, ensuring the longevity of your home, and, most importantly, the safety of its future occupants and yourself during construction. Many owner-builders underestimate the rigour required at this stage, often leading to costly rectifications later or, worse, latent defects that compromise the home's structural integrity. This guide aims to equip you with the knowledge and confidence to approach this critical inspection phase with professionalism and precision.

2. Understanding the Basics

Before embarking on the inspection, it's crucial to solidify your understanding of the core components and principles of steel frame construction. This is not merely about identifying parts but understanding their function and correct installation.

2.1. Steel Frame Components

• Studs: Vertical members that form the walls, typically C-section or box section steel. They are critical for supporting live and dead loads from above.
• Plates (Tracks): Horizontal members at the top (top plate/track) and bottom (bottom plate/track) of walls, to which studs are attached. These distribute loads and anchor the wall system.
• Rafters/Trusses: Structural members forming the roof, designed to bear roof loads (dead, live, wind) and transfer them down to the wall system. In kit homes, these are often pre-fabricated trusses.
• Beams/Lintels: Horizontal structural members spanning openings (e.g., doors, windows) or supporting concentrated loads. They prevent deflection over openings.
• Bracing: Essential for resisting lateral forces (e.g., wind, seismic). This can include diagonal strap bracing, portal frames, or structural sheeting. Bracing systems are critical for the frame's stability.
• Connectors/Fasteners: Specialized screws, bolts, rivets, and proprietary connection systems designed for steel-to-steel connections. The correct type and quantity of fasteners are vital for joint strength.
• Webs/Flanges: Terms used to describe parts of C-section or I-beam profiles. The 'web' is the central connecting plate, and 'flanges' are the projecting edges, providing stiffness and strength.

2.2. Common Terminology

• Plumb: Perfectly vertical alignment. Essential for walls and studs.
• Level: Perfectly horizontal alignment. Critical for plates, beams, and floor systems.
• Square: Referring to corners forming a perfect 90-degree angle. Ensures correct geometry for fitting subsequent building elements.
• True: Straight and without twists or bows. Steel frames are renowned for their 'trueness'.
• Tolerance: The permissible deviation from a specified dimension or alignment. Understanding tolerances (usually +/- a few millimetres) is key, as perfect alignment is rarely achievable in practice.
• Corrosion Protection: The coating applied to steel (e.g., galvanisation, ZINCALUME® steel) to resist rust. Damage to this coating can compromise durability.

Owner-Builder Tip: Familiarise yourself with your specific kit home drawings and component list. Each part has a designated place and purpose. Before assembly begins, lay out and identify all components – this is part of your initial 'pre-inspection'.

3. Australian Regulatory Framework

Ensuring your steel frame complies with Australian regulations is non-negotiable. This section will guide you through the primary documents and state-specific requirements.

3.1. National Construction Code (NCC)

The NCC is Australia's primary building code. Your steel frame must comply with its performance requirements. For housing (Class 1 and 10a buildings), the relevant volume is NCC 2022, Volume Two – Building Code of Australia (BCA) Class 1 and 10 Buildings.

Key NCC aspects for steel framing:

• Structural Robustness (NCC H1P1, P2P1): The structure must be capable of resisting all reasonably anticipated actions (dead, live, wind, seismic loads). This is primarily addressed through engineering design and compliant construction.
• Weatherproofing (NCC H2P1): While not directly about the frame, the framing must accommodate flashing, sarking, and cladding systems essential for weatherproofing. Proper frame alignment aids in this.
• Fire Safety (NCC H3P1): Steel frames themselves are non-combustible. However, they can lose strength under extreme heat. The design (e.g., plasterboard lining) must account for fire resistance levels (FRLs) if specified, especially in bushfire-prone areas (BAL ratings).
• Health and Amenity (NCC H4P1): Relates to aspects like ventilation and damp and timber pest resistance. Steel frames inherently offer superior resistance to termites and rot compared to timber.

3.2. Relevant Australian Standards (AS/NZS)

These standards provide 'Deemed-to-Satisfy' solutions for NCC compliance.

• AS/NZS 4600:2018 - Cold-formed steel structures: This is the foundational standard for the design and construction of cold-formed steel members and structures. Your kit home's engineering design will be based on this standard.
• AS 3623:1993 - Domestic metal framing: While older, it still provides general guidance for the erection and tolerance of domestic steel framing. It covers aspects like screw types and spacing.
• AS/NZS 1170 series - Structural design actions: These standards specify the loads that structures must be designed to withstand (e.g., AS/NZS 1170.1 Dead and live loads, AS/NZS 1170.2 Wind actions).
• AS/NZS 1594:2002 - Hot-rolled steel flat products: Specifies the material properties of the steel itself.
• AS 2870:2011 - Residential slabs and footings: While not directly about the frame, the frame's connection to the slab/footings is critical, and these connections are designed based on this standard.
• AS 1684 series - Residential timber-framed construction (NCC referenced): While for timber, it is often used as a comparative reference for acceptable tolerances and bracing principles in residential construction even for steel.

Critical Note: Your kit home manufacturer should provide engineering documentation that explicitly states compliance with these standards and the NCC. This documentation is non-negotiable for council approval.

3.3. State-Specific Variations and Regulatory Bodies

While the NCC provides national consistency, states and territories have their own building acts, regulations, and enforcement bodies that may introduce minor variations or additional requirements. Always confirm with your local council and state authority.

• New South Wales (NSW): Regulated by the NSW Fair Trading. Building Surveyors (Certifiers) conduct mandatory inspections. Owner-builders require an 'Owner-Builder Permit' for homes valued over $10,000.
• Queensland (QLD): Regulated by the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC). Owner-builders require a 'Permit' for work over $11,000. Building certifiers conduct mandatory inspections.
• Victoria (VIC): Regulated by the Victorian Building Authority (VBA). Owner-builders require a 'Certificate of Consent' for work valued over $16,000. Registered Building Surveyors conduct mandatory inspections.
• Western Australia (WA): Regulated by the Building Commission (Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety). Owner-builders require an 'Owner-Builder Licence' for homes with an estimated value over $20,000. A permit authority will require inspections.
• South Australia (SA): Regulated by Consumer and Business Services (CBS). Owner-builders generally don't require specific licensing for their own home but must adhere to council development approvals and relevant building codes. Private certifiers or council building surveyors conduct inspections.
• Tasmania (TAS): Regulated by Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS). Owner-builders require an 'Owner-Builder Permit' for work valued over $20,000. A Building Surveyor will oversee inspections.

Action Point: Before commencing any construction, establish contact with your appointed Building Certifier/Surveyor. They will provide a list of mandatory inspection stages, which will absolutely include a 'frame inspection' (sometimes called 'pre-cladding' or 'pre-sheeting' inspection). Understand their specific requirements and expectations.

4. Step-by-Step Process: Steel Frame Inspection Checklist

This detailed checklist is designed to guide you through a thorough inspection of your steel frame. It supplements, but does not replace, your building certifier's inspection.

4.1. Pre-Inspection Preparations

1. Gather Documentation:

   • Approved architectural plans.
   • Approved structural engineering drawings (critical for steel framing).
   • Kit home manufacturer's assembly instructions.
   • Your Building Certifier's inspection schedule and specific requirements.
   • NCC 2022 Volume Two and relevant AS/NZS standards.
   • A copy of this checklist.

2. Safety First (WHS):

   • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, steel-capped boots, high-visibility clothing. Always.
   • Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) Plan: As an owner-builder, you are responsible for WHS on your site (Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and associated regulations). Ensure the work area is clear, stable, and free from trip hazards. Scaffold or elevated work platforms must be erected by competent persons if working at height. Never work alone at heights.
   • Tool Safety: Ensure measuring tapes, levels, plumb bobs, laser levels, and tension wrenches (if applicable for bolted connections) are calibrated and in good working order.

3. Lighting: Ensure adequate natural or artificial lighting for clear visibility.

4.2. Foundation/Slab Connection Inspection

The frame's integrity begins with its connection to the foundation.

1. Anchor Bolts/Hold-Downs:

   • Type & Size: Verify that the anchor bolts/hold-downs match engineering specifications (e.g., M12 galvanised bolts). > Refer to engineering drawings. These are crucial for resisting uplift from wind.
   • Position & Spacing: Check that they are correctly positioned as per plans, typically within 5-10mm tolerance. Ensure correct spacing along bottom plates.
   • Embedment Depth: While difficult to verify post-pour, check any exposed portions for correct threading and condition.
   • Tightness: Ensure nuts are securely tightened, usually with washers. For specific hold-down systems, ensure tensioning devices are correctly installed and torqued if required.
   • Corrosion Protection: Verify galvanisation or other protective coatings are intact.

2. Bottom Plate/Track Installation:

   • Level & True: Use a long spirit level or laser level to confirm the bottom plate is level +/- 5mm over 3m and perfectly straight.
   • Packing/Grouting: If the slab is uneven, check for appropriate non-shrink grout or packing shims positioned under the bottom plate to ensure full bearing and proper levelling. Gaps should ideally be filled to prevent movement and pest entry.
   • Corrosion Barrier: Confirm the presence of a damp-proof course (DPC) or similar continuous vapour barrier between the steel and concrete slab to prevent moisture transfer and galvanic corrosion (especially if untreated steel was in contact with concrete, though modern galvanised steel significantly mitigates this).

4.3. Wall Frame Inspection

This is the most extensive part of the frame inspection.

1. Verticality (Plumb) and Straightness (True):

   • Studs: Use a spirit level (min. 1.2m long) or laser plumb bob/level to check individual studs for plumb. Look for a maximum deviation of +/- 3mm over 2.4m height. Look along the full length of walls for straightness.
   • Walls: Stand back and sight along the walls to identify any bows or kinks. Check for plumb at inside and outside corners.
   • NCC H2P3.1 Requirement: Walls and other structural elements must be constructed to tolerances that do not adversely affect the performance or aesthetic of the building.

2. Stud and Plate Connections:

   • Fastener Type & Quantity: Crucial. Confirm that the specific screws (e.g., self-drilling, self-tapping, hexagonal head) or rivets specified by the engineer or kit manufacturer are used. Count them to ensure the correct number at each connection point (typically 2-4 screws per stud-to-plate connection for light-gauge steel). > Refer to AS/NZS 4600 and engineering drawings for fastener schedules.
   • Screw Penetration: Screws must fully penetrate both members being joined, with at least 3 threads visible through the back of the second member.
   • Damage/Strip-Out: Inspect for over-tightened or stripped screws. These connections are compromised and must be rectified. Missing screws must be installed.
   • Cleanliness: Ensure no swarf (metal shavings) is left around screw heads, as this can accelerate corrosion.

3. Internal & External Corners:

   • Squareness: Use a large builder's square or laser perpendicularity check to verify corners are 90 degrees (+/- 3mm). This is critical for fitting linings and cladding.
   • Connection Integrity: Ensure all studs and plates forming corners are securely and correctly fastened.

4. Opening Frames (Doors and Windows):

   • Header (Lintel) Installation: Verify headers are installed exactly as per engineering drawings, with correct orientation and connection details. Headers carry loads over openings.
   • Jambs/Sills: Check that door and window jambs are plumb, and sills are level and cut to correct dimensions.
   • Overall Opening Dimensions: Measure height and width of all openings to ensure they match architectural plans and are within reasonable tolerances for window/door frames.
   • Temporary Bracing: Ensure any necessary temporary bracing around openings (to maintain shape until permanent bracing is fixed) is in place.

5. Bracing Elements:

   • Location & Type: Verify all specified bracing (e.g., strap bracing, portal frames, shear panels) is installed in the correct locations as per engineering drawings. > Refer to AS/NZS 4600 and engineering for bracing design.
   • Tensioning (Strap Bracing): For strap bracing, ensure it is adequately tensioned (finger-tight or as specified by manufacturer) but not over-tightened to deform the frame. Check all strap-to-frame connections are secure.
   • Connection Details: Ensure all connections for portal frames and shear panels use the correct fasteners and are fully engaged.

6. Load-Bearing Walls:

   • Identification: Ensure you can clearly identify which walls are load-bearing as per plans. These require special attention.
   • Support: Verify critical support points (e.g., under upper floor beams or roof trusses) are correctly aligned with studs below.

4.4. Roof Frame (Trusses/Rafters) Inspection

The roof structure is critical for overall stability and weather resistance.

1. Truss/Rafter Installation:

   • Spacing: Check spacing between trusses/rafters matches engineering drawings (e.g., 600mm or 900mm centres). > Refer to AS/NZS 4600 for truss design, and potentially AS 4773 for truss assembly and installation.
   • Alignment: Ensure trusses/rafters are installed plumb and aligned correctly on the top plates.
   • Connection to Top Plate: Verify correct connection method (e.g., proprietary hangers, screws, bolts) and correct fastener schedule. Look for evidence of specific tie-down straps or cyclone rods in high wind zones (refer to engineering).
   • Overall Roof Plane: Sight along the entire roof to identify any obvious dips, humps, or misalignments. A string line can be used for checking.

2. Bracing (Roof):

   • Permanent Bracing: Confirm all permanent bracing specified in the engineering is installed (e.g., diagonal bracing in roof planes, rafter/truss-to-rafter/truss bracing).
   • Temporary Bracing: Ensure temporary bracing remains in place until all permanent bracing and sarking/battens are installed, as specified by the truss manufacturer. This is a critical safety measure.

3. Overhangs/Eaves:

   • Correct Projection: Verify the eave and gable end overhangs are as per plans.
   • Support: Ensure fascia/eave battens and any outriggers are securely fixed and provide adequate support.

4.5. Overall Structural Integrity and Compliance

1. TRUECORE® Steel Specifics:

   • Material Verification: Confirm the steel members have the TRUECORE® mark (usually stamped or printed) indicating genuine BlueScope Steel product. This ensures you have the expected quality and galvanisation.
   • No Compromise: BlueScope Steel advises against modifications like drilling large holes or making significant cuts without engineer approval, as it can compromise the section's strength and coating.
   • Corrosion Protection: Inspect the ZINCALUME® steel or galvanised coating on all exposed surfaces. Any scratches or damage exposing the bare steel larger than a hairline scratch should ideally be touched up with a compatible cold-galvanising paint. Discuss minor rectifications with your certifier and engineer if unsure.

2. Rectification List:

   • Maintain a detailed log of any issues found during your inspection. Include location, description of defect, and photographic evidence. This will form the basis of your rectification request to your assembly team or for your own remedial work.

3. Dimensional Checks:

   • Overall Footprint: Measure the length and width of the building at multiple points to ensure it matches the approved plans (+/- 15mm tolerance for overall dimensions is typical but check engineering).
   • Wall Heights: Check heights of walls. Consistency is key for subsequent trades.

4. Holes and Notches:

   • Service Penetrations: Inspect any pre-punched holes in studs and plates (for electrical, plumbing). Ensure they are not excessively large or made at critical stress points without engineering approval.
   • No Unauthorised Cuts: Ensure there are no unauthorised cuts, modifications, or notches to structural members that have not been approved by the engineer.

WHS Alert: Never stand under an unbraced or partially braced roof structure in windy conditions. Falling trusses or unsecured members are a major hazard. Ensure all permanent bracing is installed as soon as possible after erection.

5. Practical Considerations for Kit Homes

Owner-builders selecting steel frame kit homes face unique advantages and challenges. These insights bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.

5.1. Accuracy of Prefabrication

Kit homes are pre-engineered and often pre-fabricated off-site, offering a high degree of accuracy. This generally means fewer issues with member dimensions or straightness. However, errors can still occur during:

• Manufacturing: Incorrect cuts, missing pre-punched holes, or mismatched components.
• Packaging/Shipping: Damage during transit, missing components.
• Assembly: Incorrect part identification, incorrect fastening, or damage during erection.

Owner-Builder Strategy: Cross-reference every component against the kit packing list upon delivery. Report any discrepancies or damage immediately to the supplier.

5.2. Assembly Challenges and Tips

• Following Instructions Precisely: Steel frame kit home assembly typically involves detailed, numbered instructions. Deviating from these, even slightly, can compromise structural integrity. Each screw, splice, and connection detail is there for a reason.
• Sequential Assembly: Steel frames are often designed for sequential assembly, where each section stiffens the previous. Do not jump ahead.
• Temporary Bracing: Unlike some timber frames, steel frames, especially light-gauge, can be very flexible before all permanent bracing is installed. Use substantial temporary bracing (e.g., timber props, steel straps) to hold walls plumb and square until permanent bracing is in place. This is crucial before lifting trusses.
• Heavy Lifting: While individual steel studs are lighter than timber, large wall panels or roof trusses can be heavy. Plan for appropriate lifting methods (e.g., crane, mechanical lifter, sufficient human resources) to prevent injury and damage to the frame.
• Fastener Management: Keep fasteners organised. Using the wrong screw in the wrong place can either fail to adequately connect members or damage the steel.

5.3. Protection During Construction

While highly resistant to termites and rot, steel frames are still susceptible to surface corrosion if the protective coating is compromised and exposed to moisture for extended periods.

• Minimise Water Exposure: Once erected, aim to get the roof on and sarking/wrap installed as quickly as possible to protect the frame from prolonged rain, especially in coastal areas with salt spray.
• Rectify Coating Damage: Any significant scratches or abrasions to the galvanised or ZINCALUME® coating should be touched up with a cold-galvanising spray or zinc-rich paint as soon as practical, especially in coastal or industrial environments.
• Avoid Contaminants: Do not allow cement, plaster, or other corrosive materials to sit in direct contact with the steel frame for extended periods. Clean any spills promptly.

6. Cost and Timeline Expectations

Understanding the financial and time implications of the frame phase is vital for effective project management.

6.1. Inspection Costs

• Building Certifier/Surveyor Fee: Mandatory inspections, including the frame stage, are typically part of a comprehensive fee for building approval and inspection services. This can range from $3,000 to $10,000+ AUD for the entire project, depending on the house size, complexity, and location. The frame inspection itself doesn't incur an additional standalone fee but is a key milestone within this package.
• Owner-Builder Time Cost: Your time spent rigorously inspecting is invaluable. Allocate at least 1-2 full days for a thorough frame inspection on an average three-bedroom kit home, more for larger or more complex designs. This is time you're not earning income elsewhere unless you are retired or working concurrently.
• Rectification Costs: This is the variable. If your frame erection team (if you hired one) made errors, their contract should stipulate rectification at their cost. If you're building as an owner-builder and made the errors, you bear the cost of labour and materials. Rectifying significant structural errors can range from a few hundred dollars for missing screws to thousands for re-plumbing a wall or re-doing sections of bracing.
• Pest Inspection (Optional but Recommended): In some steel frame homes that still incorporate timber components (e.g., roof battens, internal fit-out), you might consider a pest inspection post-frame for other elements, costing around $300-$600 AUD.

6.2. Timeline Expectations

• Frame Erection: For an average 3-4 bedroom steel frame kit home, if you're undertaking the build yourself with some helpers, allow 3-6 weeks from slab completion to fully erected and braced frame, ready for inspection. Professional teams can complete this in 1-2 weeks.
• Certifier Notification: You'll typically need to give your building certifier 24-48 hours notice before you are ready for the frame inspection.
• Certifier Inspection Duration: The certifier's inspection itself may take 1-3 hours on site, depending on the complexity of the house and the certifier's thoroughness.
• Rectification Period: If defects are found (and they often are, even minor ones), you will be given a period (e.g., 1-2 weeks) to rectify issues. The certifier may then require a re-inspection, potentially incurring an additional fee if the issues were significant or if repeated visits are needed due to non-compliance.
• Next Stage: Only once the frame inspection is signed off can you proceed to the next major stage, typically roofing, external cladding, and internal services rough-in (electrical, plumbing).

Project Management Tip: Build contingency time into your schedule. Delays at the frame inspection stage can push back subsequent trades and add to holding costs.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learning from others' mistakes can save you significant time, money, and stress.

1. Skipping or Rushing the Inspection: This is the most dangerous mistake. Superficial checks miss critical structural faults, leading to latent defects that can emerge years later or cause immediate failures. Take your time. Be methodical.
2. Not Understanding the Plans: Relying solely on the kit instructions without cross-referencing against approved architectural and engineering plans. The plans are the ultimate legal compliance document.
3. Incorrect Fasteners/Insufficient Fastening: Using the wrong type, size, or number of screws/bolts is a common and critical error. Each connection is designed for a specific load. Compromising this can lead to frame failure. > Consult AS/NZS 4600 and the engineer's fastener schedule meticulously.
4. Neglecting Temporary Bracing: Removing temporary bracing too early or not installing enough of it, especially in roof structures, can lead to racking, collapse, or injury during construction. Steel frames flex significantly without full bracing.
5. Ignoring Levelling and Squaring: While steel is 'true,' the slab might not be perfect. Failing to level bottom plates and square corners properly ensures subsequent trades like plasterers and cabinetmakers will face immense difficulties and often leads to an inferior finish.
6. Damaging Corrosion Protection: Carelessly handling components or making modifications without touching up damaged galvanisation can lead to premature corrosion. While internal frames are less exposed, external wall framing and roof structures are vulnerable.
7. Failing to Consult the Engineer/Certifier: If you encounter an unexpected issue or wish to make a design change (no matter how minor), always consult your structural engineer and certifier before proceeding. Unauthorized modifications can void warranties and compliance.
8. Poor Site Safety: Overlooking WHS responsibilities. Falls from height, falling objects, and incorrect use of tools are constant risks on any building site. As an owner-builder, you are the primary duty holder.

8. When to Seek Professional Help

While owner-building empowers you, knowing your limits and when to call in experts is a mark of a wise builder.

• Structural Doubts: If, during your inspection, you have any doubt about the structural integrity of a component or connection, immediately consult your structural engineer. Do not guess or proceed.
• Significant Deviations: If you find substantial deviations from plans (e.g., a wall out by more than 25mm over its length, corners significantly out of square, or major bracing elements missing), it may warrant a re-evaluation by the engineer before proceeding with rectifications. Your building certifier will also flag this.
• Complex Rectifications: If a rectification requires specialised welding (rare for light-gauge kit homes, but possible for heavier sections or modifications) or specific lifting equipment, engage a qualified and experienced professional.
• Working at Height Safely: For complex roof structures or multi-story frames requiring extensive work at height, consider engaging scaffolding specialists and potentially a licensed trade to assist with erection if you're not confident in managing the WHS risks.
• Fire-Rated Construction: If your home is in a bushfire-prone area (BAL-29 or higher) or requires specific fire resistance levels (FRLs), ensure all components, especially those related to enclosing the steel, meet the required specifications. Consult with a fire engineer or specialist if uncertain.
• Any WHS Concern You Can't Manage: If a task presents a significant WHS risk that you don't have the experience or equipment to mitigate safely, engage a professional. Your life, and the lives of anyone on site, are paramount.

9. Checklists and Resources

Here are practical tools and resources to aid your inspection.

9.1. Owner-Builder Frame Inspection Checklist (Summary)

• Documentation: Review approved plans, engineering, and Certifier's requirements.
• Site Safety: PPE, clear access, temporary bracing in place.
• Foundation/Slab Interface:
  • Anchor bolts: Type, size, position, tension.
  • Bottom plates: Level, true, packing, DPC.
• Wall Frames:
  • Plumb, level, square, true (walls, studs).
  • Fasteners: Type, quantity, penetration, no strip-outs.
  • Corners: Squareness, connection integrity.
  • Openings: Lintel installation, dimensions, plumb/level jambs/sills.
  • Bracing: Correct type, location, tension, connections.
  • Load-bearing walls: Verification of support points.
• Roof Frame:
  • Trusses/Rafters: Spacing, alignment, connection to top plate.
  • Permanent & Temporary Bracing: Correct installation.
  • Overall Roof Plane: Straightness, level.
• Overall Frame:
  • TRUECORE® steel visual verification, coating integrity.
  • Holes/Notches: Correct according to plans, no unauthorised modifications.
  • Overall building dimensions vs. plans.
• Rectification List: Document all issues with photos and details.

9.2. Essential Tools for Inspection

• Measuring Tape: 8m or 10m heavy-duty.
• Long Spirit Level: 1.2m minimum, preferably 1.8m or 2.4m.
• Laser Level/Plumb Bob: For highly accurate plumb and level checks over longer distances.
• Builder's Square: Large size (e.g., 1200mm) for checking corners.
• String Line: For checking straightness over long runs.
• Plumb Bob (Traditional): Useful for quick plumb checks.
• Torch/Headlamp: For inspecting internal sections or in low light.
• Camera/Smartphone: For documenting findings.
• Clipboard & Pen: For recording observations.
• Wrench/Socket Set: To check tightness of bolted connections (if applicable).

9.3. Useful Resources

• Australian Steel Institute (ASI): Provides resources and technical guides on steel construction.
• BlueScope Steel: Extensive technical information on TRUECORE® steel framing, including guides and specifications. Their website is a goldmine.
• Your Kit Home Manufacturer: They are your first point of contact for specific assembly queries.
• Your Building Certifier: Your primary local regulatory contact for compliance and inspection requirements.
• Safe Work Australia: For comprehensive WHS guidance and legislation.

10. Key Takeaways

The steel frame inspection is a non-negotiable, critical milestone for any owner-builder constructing a steel frame kit home in Australia. Your diligence at this stage directly translates to the safety, longevity, and ultimate cost-effectiveness of your home. Always prioritise WHS, meticulously review all documentation, and understand the nuances of connecting and bracing cold-formed steel. Leverage the engineering drawings as your bible, and don't hesitate to seek professional advice when faced with uncertainty or complex issues. A well-constructed and compliant steel frame provides a robust foundation for the rest of your build, giving you peace of mind and enduring value. Your investment of time in this inspection phase is one of the most valuable contributions you can make to your owner-builder project.