Personally, yes I think they are worthwhile. Give you good piece of mind and a chance for someone completely independent to take a look at the quality of your build. Also very cheap (less than $200 in our case).
From my experience I had already picked up most of the things our inspector reported. He did notice a few other minor items and I sent the written report straight on to the site supervisor. Masterton were fine with rectifying most of the items - and gave justification for one or two that they didnt see a problem with - which I was fine with.
Just remember - do it all in writing (email). I emailed SS to organise site access (he didnt turn up on the day and noone was there - so inspector and I let ourselves in). Also I emailed a copy of the report - and I asked for written response to the issues raised. Provides you with a paper trail for later. Organised ours for just before gyprock went up but before insulation ... that way they could see all framing, brickwork, roofing, electrical rough-in (they will hack some of your studwork).
I also asked our inspector whether he should inspect before handover. He said that if we had a tile roof certainly - as the tiles need time to settle and given their weight can bow door frames etc. We have colorbond so he saw no real need to come back and the roof is so lightweight. If there is anything specific we need reassurance on we will get him back, otherwise I will try with SS to resolve anything.
Having said all that I did receive a warning from a friend in the building game who works with building complaints ... if you do receive a report make sure all items are communicated to the builder and they respond in writing and rectify to your satisfaction well before you sign off PCI. His advice was that builder warranty/guarantee can get messy in in future if it turns out you as the owner were in receipt of a report that pointed out issues before PCI/completion - and you decided to go ahead and settle anyhow. The builder *could* have an out if that happened.
Hope this helps ...
Wow thanks for all the advice bailey76! That was really kind of you. Hmmm, inspections seem to be so much cheaper where you are? I rang H&K Ryan (thanks AlzSheznAdz) and their discounted price to H1 members is $550 (down from $595), but still that seems heaps expensive. Does your inspector cover the Sydney area? If so do you mind posting up the details or can you please msg me the details? Thanks heaps!
Novo - how exciting! Despite the bits and pieces it sounds like things are great overall! A big congrats - you are so so close!! Can't wait to see some pics
squashedrex - what a bummer re: HWS - hopefully they get it right this time! I can imagine how frustrating it must be because you're so close!! Not long to go now - hang in there!
Thanks everyone!