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Blackburn North blocks often have fall and reactive clay conditions across Melbourne’s east, so getting the base right before concrete is poured is critical for slab performance, drainage and long-term cracking control.
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Our comprehensive service includes everything you need to make an informed decision about your property.
We check the slab location, overall footprint and key dimensions against the available drawings and visible boundary references so the build starts where it should. This helps avoid costly issues such as misaligned setbacks, incorrect garage positioning or step levels that don’t match the intended layout.
We assess formwork straightness, stability and edge beam formation, including rebates and slab edge details that influence finished floor levels and façade alignment. Poorly braced or uneven formwork can lead to slab thickness variation and finishing problems that are difficult to correct after the pour.
We review reinforcement size and placement as installed, including laps, intersections and support chairs/spacers to help ensure steel is positioned at the correct height within the slab and beams. Incorrect cover or missing supports can reduce performance and increase the risk of cracking or corrosion over time.
We check the vapour barrier for tears, gaps, overlaps and taping, with extra attention around service penetrations and slab edge transitions. In Blackburn North, consistent moisture control matters for flooring performance and helps reduce moisture-related movement and mould risk in the finished home.
We identify plumbing/electrical penetrations visible at the base stage and check they are sensibly located and protected, with allowances for movement where appropriate. Fixing poorly positioned penetrations after concrete is poured can involve cutting the slab or accepting awkward cabinetry and fixture compromises.
We look for signs of water ponding, muddy subgrade, uncontrolled fill, or areas that may need re-compaction or drying prior to the pour. A clean, well-prepared base supports consistent slab thickness and helps reduce settlement-related issues, especially on sites with slope or recent earthworks.
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Get Stage 1 – Pre-Slab (Base Stage) Inspection as part of a comprehensive inspection package
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Book once the site is boxed up: excavation is complete, formwork is in place, steel reinforcement is tied, and the vapour barrier is laid or ready to be laid—before any concrete is poured. In Blackburn North, where blocks can have fall and drainage needs, timing is important so set-out, levels and moisture protection can be verified while still easy to fix.
Yes. We look for indicators of poor subgrade preparation such as soft spots, wet areas, or uneven base conditions that can occur after cut-and-fill or recent earthworks. While we’re not doing geotechnical testing, we can flag visual red flags, drainage problems and pour-readiness concerns so you can request clarification, rework or confirmation from the builder or engineer before concrete covers everything.
We compare what’s visible on site to the plans you provide, focusing on slab footprint, key dimensions, edge details and practical set-out items that affect the build. If something doesn’t look consistent—such as an offset, an opening position, or an unexpected level change—we document it with photos and clear notes so you can query it with your builder or designer prior to the pour.
They’re critical, particularly on sites with variable ground moisture or where the new slab interfaces with existing structures. Tears, gaps, poorly taped joins and unsealed penetrations can allow moisture migration that later affects flooring adhesives, timber, and indoor air quality. A Stage 1 inspection in Blackburn North lets you confirm the barrier is continuous and properly detailed before it’s trapped beneath concrete and finishes.
You’ll receive a detailed report with photos, a clear list of findings, and practical recommendations you can action before the pour. We prioritise items that should be fixed immediately (such as reinforcement support, barrier damage or formwork concerns) and note anything requiring clarification against the engineering or drawings. This makes it easier to communicate with your builder quickly and keep the project moving.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections checks formwork, steel, moisture barriers and site readiness at Stage 1 so you can raise issues early—call 0485 857 077 to schedule in Blackburn North.