Burnley’s mix of older weatherboard cottages, renovated terraces and newer townhouse builds can hide movement, moisture damage and compromised framing—especially where drainage and subfloor ventilation are tight.
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We assess cracking patterns in brickwork and rendered surfaces to distinguish typical ageing from movement that may indicate footing issues, wall separation or structural instability. We note crack locations, widths and whether they align with doors, windows and junctions where stress commonly shows.
Where accessible, we check stumps, ant caps, bearer-to-stump connections, joist condition and signs of sagging or bounce. In Burnley’s older raised-floor homes, inadequate ventilation or past water ingress can lead to rot and loss of strength that isn’t visible from inside.
We inspect the roof space for cracked or cut trusses/rafters, undersized members, removed bracing, and poor workmanship around skylights or extensions. Alterations done to create open-plan areas can overload remaining supports and cause ongoing movement.
We investigate bathrooms, laundries and kitchens for signs of leaks and long-term moisture exposure that can weaken flooring, wall framing and structural timbers. We look for swelling, delamination, staining and fungal decay indicators that suggest the issue is structural, not just cosmetic.
Where present, we check retaining walls for bulging, cracking, poor drainage and failure signs. We also assess how stormwater is managed around the building because persistent water against footings and walls can contribute to settlement and structural distress.
Major structural problems often come with safety hazards such as unstable ceilings, loose masonry, compromised balconies or deteriorated stair structures. We identify immediate hazards and advise on urgent actions, including when to seek an engineer or restrict access.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Burnley we often see movement-related cracking in older masonry, sagging floors where subfloor ventilation has been restricted, and roof framing issues after extensions or skylight installs. Renovations can hide removed bracing or altered load paths. Moisture problems around wet areas and poor drainage can also drive timber decay and corrosion of structural fixings. An inspection helps confirm what’s cosmetic versus structurally significant.
Yes. For strata properties we inspect the accessible areas within the lot and any common areas available at the time, such as basements, car parks or roof spaces when access is granted. We look for indicators of movement, water ingress and load-bearing concerns that can affect shared walls and floors. We’ll also flag where strata records or an engineer’s advice are important for a complete picture.
Not always, but major defects often warrant an engineer’s assessment, especially where there’s evidence of active movement, compromised roof framing, unstable masonry or significant decay to bearers/joists. We explain the severity and the likely consequences if left untreated, then recommend the next step. If there’s an immediate safety concern, we’ll tell you what to restrict and why.
Areas closer to the Yarra corridor and low-lying pockets can experience higher moisture exposure, which increases the risk of subfloor damp, timber decay and corrosion in metal connectors. Even without flooding, poor site falls, blocked stormwater or downpipes discharging near footings can keep soils wet and contribute to settlement. We check for moisture clues and drainage-related stress that may be driving structural symptoms.
We need safe access to key areas such as the subfloor (where an access hatch exists), the roof void, and external elevations. If access is limited by locked manholes, stored items or low clearances, we document the restriction and explain what could not be verified. For Burnley properties with tight underfloor spaces or converted roof areas, arranging access beforehand improves the reliability of findings.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on serious structural risks—movement, moisture-driven damage and compromised framing—so you can make a clear decision before you sign. Call 0413 163 187.