Fixing Stage Explained: What It Is and What to Check
The fixing stage is one of the most important internal stages of a residential build. Understanding what this stage involves helps homeowners know what should be complete, what may still be excluded, and what should be inspected before work progresses further.
Under the Domestic Building Contracts Act, the fixing stage is generally defined as the point where internal elements such as wall linings, architraves, skirting boards, doors, built-in robes, baths, basins, cabinets and similar fixtures are fitted and fixed in position. This definition is used to determine when a progress payment can be claimed.
In practice, many builders include special conditions in the contract that modify this definition. Commonly, items such as sinks, tapware or other fittings may be excluded from the fixing stage and pushed into a later fit-off stage closer to completion. This does not necessarily mean something is wrong, but it does mean homeowners should understand how their specific contract defines the stage before assessing whether it has been reached.
From a construction perspective, the fixing stage is often referred to as the “pre-paint stage”. At this point, the home is largely enclosed internally, but paint has not yet been applied. This makes it an ideal time to inspect surfaces and finishes, because defects are far easier to rectify before painting occurs, which means the builder is more likely to fix the defect/s.
One of the key things to assess at fixing stage is the quality of internal carpentry. This includes checking that doors are installed in the correct locations, that they swing the right way, and that margins around doors and windows are consistent. Architraves and skirting boards should be straight, level, plumb and neatly fitted, with even gaps where they meet adjoining surfaces.
Plasterwork is another major focus at this stage. Walls and ceilings should be checked for straightness and flatness, including looking for bulges, depressions or misaligned joints. Cornices, which are the plaster trims between walls and ceilings, should run straight and true. Minor imperfections can often be corrected using plaster ‘floats’, which involves applying and sanding a thin layer of compound to create a flat surface before painting.
Addressing plaster issues at fixing stage is important because repairs become more noticeable once paint is applied. While it is possible to fix issues later, doing so often requires repainting and can lead to visible patching or inconsistent finishes. Builders are reluctant to re-paint an entire wall or ceiling if there is a small patch, and this ends up standing out if not done properly.
Cabinetry is also typically installed at fixing stage, even if benchtops are not yet in place. Cabinets should be checked for correct positioning, alignment and configuration. This includes confirming that they are set up for the correct sinks, appliances, drawers and doors, and that any provisions for electrical and services have been properly allowed for.
Windows and external doors should also be reviewed internally at this stage. The tops of window and door architraves should be parallel, level and consistent, and window reveals should be straight and evenly finished.
Externally, fixing stage inspections may also include a general review of cladding, whether brickwork, weatherboards or other materials. This is an opportunity to identify obvious alignment issues, uneven courses, or installation concerns before the final stages of the build.
Understanding both the contractual definition of the fixing stage and the practical inspection focus helps homeowners engage with this stage confidently and avoid problems being carried forward into completion.