Ashburton’s mix of older weatherboard homes and renovated family houses can hide movement, damp-related timber decay, and roof framing changes that only show up with a focused structural defects inspection.
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We check accessible subfloor areas for stump condition, bearer and joist performance, packer slippage, and signs of differential movement. This matters because floor bounce, sloping, and door misalignment can indicate structural movement rather than simple wear.
We examine internal and external cracking, noting location, direction, width changes, and associated symptoms (sticking doors, racking). This helps separate likely structural movement from plaster shrinkage or minor settlement.
In the roof space (where safe access is available), we look for cut or modified trusses/rafters, under-sized members, poor bracing, and overloaded areas from solar, storage platforms, or re-roofing. These issues can create sagging, spread, or long-term framing failure.
We look for signs that structural walls have been removed or altered without adequate beams or posts, including ceiling cracking, uneven junctions, and improvised supports. This is critical in renovated Ashburton homes where layouts have been opened up.
We assess for conditions that can lead to major defects, such as rising damp, poor subfloor ventilation, bathroom leaks, and roof plumbing issues. Moisture can rot timber, corrode fixings, and weaken structural connections over time.
We identify defect-related safety concerns such as unstable decks/verandahs, compromised balustrades, brickwork separation, and hazardous roof space access conditions. Where relevant, we also flag obvious concerns around plumbing and electrical compliance that may be contributing to damage.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Ashburton, we often find issues linked to older structures that have been extended or reconfigured over time. That can include subfloor movement (stumps, bearers, joists), crack patterns suggesting differential movement, moisture-related timber damage, and roof framing changes from renovations or re-roofing. We assess the evidence on-site and explain what is urgent, what needs monitoring, and what further expert input may be required.
Yes, where safe and accessible. We inspect the roof space to look for framing defects, bracing problems, and signs of alteration that affect structural performance. In the subfloor, we assess supports, timber condition, ventilation, and moisture impacts that can lead to movement. If access is restricted, we’ll note the limitation and recommend practical next steps to reduce unknowns.
We assess cracking in context: the pattern, width, location, and associated symptoms such as sloping floors, gaps at cornices, or sticking doors and windows. While some cracking is common in older homes, certain indicators suggest movement that may be structural. We’ll document what we observe and provide clear guidance on whether monitoring, repair, or a structural engineer’s assessment is the most appropriate next step.
They can be, especially where open-plan changes were made and the original load paths were altered. We look for signs that beams, posts, and connections are performing properly, and that roof and ceiling lines aren’t showing stress from inadequate support. If we see indicators of undersized members or improvised supports, we’ll flag it as a potential major defect and recommend further assessment before you commit.
Booking times depend on availability, but we aim to schedule promptly for Ashburton and nearby areas in the wider Ringwood region. Call 0413 163 187 and we’ll confirm the earliest suitable time, what access we’ll need (subfloor entry, manhole, roof space), and any details that help us focus on your concerns such as cracking locations, recent renovations, or known leak history.
Still have questions?
Contact us for more informationChoose ACE Building and Pest Inspections for an Ashburton-focused structural check that targets movement, altered framing, and moisture-driven damage, backed by clear reporting you can act on—call 0413 163 187.