Brunswick’s mix of Victorian terraces, brick walk-ups and renovated weatherboards can hide cracked masonry, dodgy extensions and moisture damage behind fresh finishes—major defects that can be costly and unsafe if missed.
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We assess cracking patterns in brickwork, render and plaster, checking for signs of ongoing movement, wall separation, and load path issues. In Brunswick’s older masonry homes, stepped cracking around openings and party walls can indicate foundation movement or altered structural loads from renovations.
We check for uneven floors, stump deterioration, damp subfloor conditions and inadequate ventilation. These issues can drive structural movement and timber decay, particularly in older houses where ventilation has been blocked by landscaping, paving or retrofit insulation.
We inspect roof framing for sagging, water staining and poor repairs, then assess tiles/sheeting, flashings and penetrations. We also check gutters, downpipes and discharge points because ineffective stormwater handling is a common trigger for major moisture damage and movement.
We look for visible moisture indicators such as efflorescence, bubbling paint, mould-prone areas, and dampness around wet areas and external walls. We also assess likely entry points like balcony edges, parapets, window head flashings and poorly sealed junctions common in renovated Brunswick homes.
We check for signs of removed or modified structural walls, undersized beams, inadequate bracing and poorly executed openings. Where an extension meets an older structure, we assess alignment, differential cracking and water entry risks at junctions and roof tie-ins.
While we don’t perform a full electrical test, we identify visible warning signs such as unsafe cabling, improvised connections, damaged switchboards, and wet-area risks. We also check for plumbing-related defect clues like persistent dampness, leaking fixtures, poorly drained areas and water damage that can compromise structure.
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Get Major Building Defects as part of a comprehensive inspection package
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
A major building defect is an issue that significantly affects structural integrity or safety, or could lead to serious damage if left untreated. In Brunswick this often includes ongoing movement in brickwork, failing roof structures, persistent water ingress, and unsafe or non-compliant alterations from past renovations. We identify the defect, explain the likely cause, and outline practical next steps for verification and rectification.
Not always. Hairline or stable shrinkage cracking can be common in older plaster, but stepped cracking through brickwork, widening cracks, or cracking that runs through multiple areas can indicate movement or structural stress. We assess crack location, direction, width and surrounding signs (like sticking doors or sloping floors) to determine whether it’s likely active movement and needs further structural advice.
Yes, where access is available and safe. We look for signs that foundation movement may be occurring, such as uneven floors, stump deterioration, subfloor dampness and inadequate ventilation. We also consider how external factors like drainage and ground levels may be affecting the structure. If access is limited, we note constraints and focus on related indicators inside and outside the home.
Rear extensions and internal open-plan changes can introduce major issues when structural loads aren’t properly supported or junctions aren’t weatherproofed. In Brunswick we often see problems around beam support, cracking where old meets new, and leaks at roof tie-ins, box gutters or flashing details. We look for visible indicators of poor workmanship, water staining, and movement that suggest deeper defects.
We identify visible safety and defect indicators, such as damaged wiring, unsafe fittings, wet-area risks, and signs of leaks or water damage that can compromise structure. A full compliance test requires a qualified electrician or plumber, and we may recommend that follow-up when we see red flags. Our report helps you prioritise which specialists to engage and why.
Still have questions?
Contact us for more informationACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the serious issues that affect safety and structure in Brunswick’s older homes and renovated properties—call 0413 163 187 to lock in an inspection.