Aberfeldie has a mix of older brick homes and renovated extensions near the Maribyrnong River corridor, where movement, moisture and past alterations can hide serious structural faults.
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We assess cracking patterns in brickwork, plaster and cornices; check for stepped cracks, separation at junctions, and racking around doors and windows. These signs help indicate whether movement is cosmetic or consistent with footing settlement, heave or ongoing structural distortion.
Where there is access, we inspect stumps, bearer lines, joists and subfloor ventilation for signs of rotation, crushing, moisture damage and inadequate support. In older Aberfeldie homes, subfloor issues can cause uneven floors and contribute to wall cracking above.
In the roof space (where safe to enter), we look for sagging rafters, bowing trusses, inadequate bracing, altered members and signs of roof spread at wall tops. Roof structure problems can present as ceiling cracking, sticking doors and outward wall movement.
We look for the structural impacts of water ingress: swelling timbers, rusted structural fixings, damp subfloor conditions, and leak pathways from roof plumbing, flashings and wet areas. Moisture is a common trigger for long-term deterioration that becomes a major defect.
We assess how additions and alterations appear to integrate with the original structure, including junction cracking, level changes, modified load-bearing walls and removed supports. We also note visible compliance concerns, such as unsafe structural changes that warrant further documentation or engineering confirmation.
We identify hazards such as unstable masonry, compromised balconies/verandahs, failing retaining influences, or ceiling/roof components that may pose immediate risk. Where electrical or plumbing issues appear to be contributing to damage (leaks, overheating near structural members), we flag them for licensed trade review.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Older brick homes can perform well, but age increases the chance of prior movement, roof frame fatigue, and moisture damage from older flashings or plumbing. In Aberfeldie, renovations and extensions can also introduce new stress points where the old and new structures meet. We focus on cracking patterns, level changes, and structural connections to separate typical ageing from major defects.
A major structural defect is an issue that affects the building’s load-bearing capacity, stability, or safety. Examples include significant footing movement, compromised bearers/joists, failing roof structure, unstable masonry, or structural components damaged by moisture. We document the defect, explain the likely cause where visible, and recommend whether a structural engineer or specialist is needed before purchase.
We assess crack characteristics (width, direction, location, and whether they pass through bricks or mortar), look for matching signs elsewhere (doors out of square, uneven floors, separation at cornices), and consider moisture and drainage clues. While a single visit can’t time-stamp movement, we can indicate whether the pattern suggests ongoing movement and whether monitoring or urgent investigation is warranted.
Yes, they can. Homes closer to river corridors or drainage lines may experience higher moisture exposure, older stormwater arrangements, or changes to ground conditions that affect footings over time. We pay close attention to damp subfloors, drainage fall away from the building, signs of past water entry, and any structural distortion that aligns with moisture-related deterioration or ground movement.
Treat it as a decision point, not a dead end. We’ll outline the defect severity and likely implications, then recommend the right next step: structural engineer assessment, builder quotation, or targeted invasive investigation where access is limited. If you’re buying, you can use the findings to renegotiate, request repairs, or decide whether the risk and cost suit your plans.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the structural issues that can change the value and safety of an Aberfeldie property. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange an inspection.