The frame inspection is the last time anyone sees the structure of a house before plasterboard and cladding cover it. On a two storey home there is more to look at, because the upper floor adds load, height and wind exposure. This guide sets out what a certifier looks for and how builders can avoid a second visit.
When the inspection happens
In NSW, the principal certifier must inspect framework before it is covered up, whether it belongs to a floor, a wall or the roof. It counts among the critical stage inspections the law requires. For a two storey home, it normally takes place once both levels are framed, the roof is on and the windows are fitted, but before any insulation or linings go in.
Timing matters more on two storey builds. Upper floor sheeting is often laid early, which can hide the floor framing. If parts of the frame will be covered before the main inspection, talk to your certifier about inspecting them first.
The structure and the load path
A two storey frame has to carry the roof and the first floor down to the footings, and resist wind trying to rack or lift the building. We follow that load path from top to bottom.
- Beams and lintels: sizes and positions match the engineering and framing plans, especially steel beams over wide openings and under upper floor walls.
- Point loads: posts and jamb studs under beams are carried down to the slab or footing, with solid blocking where loads pass through the floor.
- Floor framing: upper floor joists are the specified size and spacing, with hangers and bearing as designed.
- Bracing: bracing walls are in the right places with the right fixings and hold-downs, as shown on the bracing plan.
- Tie-downs: straps, rods and bolts link the roof to the walls, the upper walls to the floor, and the frame to the slab. Missing tie-downs between storeys are a common defect.
- Roof trusses: layout matches the manufacturer's design, with girder trusses, connections and truss bracing installed as specified.
Other items checked at frame stage
- window and door sizes agree with the stamped plans and BASIX certificate
- upstairs window sill heights, where they were set for privacy or fall protection
- fire-resisting construction for walls less than 900 mm from a boundary
- framing for balconies, including falls and the junction with the house
- studs, plates and joists not over-notched or drilled by trades running services
- wall wraps and roof membranes installed as specified for weather and condensation control
NCC 2025 updates the condensation management rules for houses. NSW moves to NCC 2025 from 1 May 2027, so projects approved after that date may have slightly different membrane and ventilation details.
Documents to have ready
- the structural engineer's inspection certificate for engineered elements, such as steel beams and connections
- truss and frame manufacturer certificates, if trusses or wall frames were prefabricated
- the bracing and tie-down design, where it sits outside the framing plans
- details of any changes from the approved plans
NSW guidance for certifiers notes that only a compliance certificate under the planning legislation can be formally relied on. A note from a contractor does not carry the same weight, so ask your engineer and suppliers for the right document.
When items need fixing
The certifier will list the items to fix. Small items can sometimes be closed out with photos or a certificate. Structural problems usually need another visit before linings go on. Do not cover the frame until it has been inspected, because skipping an inspection can prevent the occupation certificate being issued.
For the full list of inspection stages, see Critical stage inspections: what we check and when. Please book your frame inspection at least 48 hours ahead. To have us certify your project, see our double storey homes service or request a quote.
Local help across NSW
CertifiBuild certifies Class 1 and Class 10 work in 39 council areas. Local rules on these council pages are a good place to start: Mosman Council, Cumberland City Council, Hawkesbury City Council, Woollahra Municipal Council, City of Parramatta, Canterbury-Bankstown Council.
Suburb pages with local planning notes: Auburn, Bligh Park, Double Bay, Dundas Valley, Earlwood, Forresters Beach, Greystanes, Henley, Kiama Downs, Spit Junction. You can also browse every service area.
Sources
- Certifier practice advice: common questions, NSW Government
- MyHome Planner, build stage, NSW Planning Portal
- NSW to adopt NCC 2025 from May 2027, NSW Government media release