Here's the one rule that matters most on a construction site: check each stage before the next one covers it. Once concrete is poured or a wall is plastered, problems underneath are very hard and expensive to fix. This guide walks through the stages of a typical G+1 house and what to look at in each.
1. Soil test and site marking
A soil test tells the structural engineer how strong the ground is, which decides the foundation design. Then the plot is cleaned and the building outline is marked on the ground.
Check: that the marking matches the approved plan, including setbacks from every boundary.
2. Excavation and foundation
Pits are dug for the footings, a layer of plain concrete (PCC) is laid, and the steel and concrete footings are cast.
Check: pit depth as per drawing, steel bar sizes and spacing, and cover blocks under the steel so it isn't touching the soil or formwork.
3. Plinth beam and damp-proof course
The plinth beam ties the columns together at ground level. A damp-proof course stops moisture rising into your walls.
Check: the plinth level against the road level, so rainwater flows away from the house, not into it.
4. Columns, beams and slabs
This is the skeleton of the house, floor by floor. It's the most important stage to get right.
- Shuttering should be level, firm and leak-free.
- Steel should match the structural drawing in size, number and spacing.
- Concrete should be properly mixed and compacted, with test cubes taken.
- Curing: slabs need to be kept wet for at least 7 to 10 days. Rushing this weakens the concrete.
5. Brickwork
Walls go up between the columns, with lintels above doors and windows.
Check: walls are straight and vertical, joints are filled with mortar, and lintels are in place before the walls go higher.
6. Plumbing and electrical
Pipes and conduits are laid inside walls and slabs before plastering.
Check: water lines are pressure-tested before they're covered, and take photos of all concealed pipe and wire routes. You'll thank yourself later when you drill a hole.
7. Plastering and waterproofing
Walls are plastered inside and out. Bathrooms, balconies and the terrace are waterproofed.
Check: do a water-holding (pond) test in bathrooms and on the terrace for 24 to 48 hours before tiles go down.
8. Flooring, doors, paint and fittings
The finishing stage brings in tiles, doors and windows, kitchen and bathroom fittings, and paint.
Check: tile levels and slopes towards drains, door alignment, and that brands match your quote.
Handover
Walk through the house with your builder and make a snag list of every defect, however small. Ask for drawings, warranty documents and receipts for major materials.