An audit can fail a system in several different ways, and they have different consequences. It helps to sort the problem into one of three groups.
1. The system is not eligible
These go to the heart of the claim: a product not on the approved list, no accredited installer present, a system that was not installed as declared, or a false statement. Certificates created for such a system can be invalidated. Rectification does not always cure it. See STC clawback.
2. The system is eligible but non-compliant
The system exists and is approved but breaks a standard: missing DC labelling, incorrect isolator, inverter settings not set to the grid requirements, poor cable management. The standards are covered in AS/NZS 5033 and STC eligibility and AS/NZS 3000 and 4777. Typically the installer must rectify, provide evidence, and may receive demerit points. STCs usually stay if the fix is accepted.
3. Workmanship defects
Roof penetration waterproofing is the classic one. Poorly sealed fixings leak, and the damage shows up months later. Other defects include loose or poorly supported panels, exposed cabling, and damaged roofing. These come to light through complaints and inspections. They are mostly a warranty and accreditation problem, but a serious defect can be reported as an installation failure.
For waterproofing, use flashing or sealing methods that match the roof type and the mounting manufacturer’s instructions, photograph the work before the panels cover it, and keep the photos.
What happens to the money
If certificates are invalidated after you were paid, the trader may ask for replacement certificates or repayment, depending on your contract. Who is responsible for a failure is covered in who is responsible for a failed STC audit.
What to do when an audit finding lands
- Read the finding and the deadline.
- Pull the job file, photos and test records.
- Decide whether it is a paperwork gap or a physical defect.
- Rectify at your cost where it is your fault, and capture dated photos of the fix.
- Respond in writing with evidence.
- Tell your trader if certificates have already been traded.
What this means for installers
Most failed audits trace back to the basics. A good pre-check of each job catches the paperwork half of them. The workmanship half is yours. See how STC audits work and the top claim rejection reasons. For the wider picture, see STC trading and, if you want claims checked before lodgement, how it works.
Documenting the repair
When you rectify, treat the repair as a new job. Take dated photos before and after, record test results again and write a short note of what was done. Send the pack to whoever raised the finding. A repair with no evidence is, in an audit, a repair that did not happen.