Guide · updated November 2026

Queensland: the defects document and home warranty deadlines

At handover, the builder and owner sign a defects document listing agreed minor defects and when they'll be fixed, plus any defects the owner says exist but the builder doesn't agree with. Builders must give at least 5 business days' notice before practical completion. Under the Queensland Home Warranty Scheme, non-structural defects must be noticed within 6 months of completion and claimed within 7 months. Structural defects are covered for 6 years and 6 months, and must be claimed within 3 months of becoming aware.

If the builder won't fix defects

  1. Give the builder written notice of every defect with a timeframe to fix (required before a QBCC complaint)
  2. If unresolved, lodge a defective work complaint with the QBCC (early dispute resolution may apply)
  3. QBCC can direct the builder to rectify; then consider a Home Warranty Scheme claim
  4. QCAT for disputes that can't be resolved

Sources: QBCC: Handover · QBCC: Queensland Home Warranty Scheme

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More: New home handover checklist (room by room) · Practical completion inspection: a buyer's guide · Shower ponding: test the falls before you take handover · Drummy tiles: check them before handover · Weep holes: check they're clear before handover · New home defects in NSW: your warranty rights · New home defects in Victoria: your rights · Documents to collect at handover