Burwood East has a mix of older brick homes and updated townhouses where renovations can hide cracking, roof movement, and water entry—major defects that can become costly fast if missed.
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We assess cracking patterns in brickwork, render, plaster, and tiles to distinguish typical shrinkage from movement that may indicate footing issues, inadequate lintels, or altered load-bearing elements—key for estimating repair scope in Burwood East homes with extensions.
We inspect roof framing condition (sagging rafters, cracked members, inadequate bracing) and check coverings, flashings, valleys, and penetrations for leak risks. Water entry can trigger timber decay and ceiling damage, turning a minor leak into a major defect.
For properties with subfloors, we check stumps, bearer and joist condition, ventilation, and signs of moisture or borer damage. Uneven floors in older Burwood East homes can be linked to stump deterioration, soil moisture changes, or poor subfloor drainage.
We look for water staining, mould-like growth, swollen skirtings, and damp readings in high-risk areas such as bathrooms, laundries, and external wall junctions. We also check weep holes, external clearances, and sealant failures that commonly drive hidden rot and damage.
We identify visible indicators of unsafe electrical and plumbing work, such as damaged wiring, amateur connections, leaking pipework, and inadequate wet-area waterproofing signs. While not a full compliance certification, this highlights when you should engage a licensed electrician or plumber urgently.
We check attachments to the main structure, visible corrosion, inadequate supports, and drainage issues. In renovated and townhouse-style properties around Burwood East, these elements can fail due to poor waterproofing, undersized framing, or movement at fixings.
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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.
In Burwood East we often see defects linked to age and renovations: stepped cracking in brickwork, roof leaks around flashings and valleys, dampness from poor site drainage, and issues where extensions were tied into the original structure. In newer townhouses, problems can include balcony or deck waterproofing faults and poorly detailed drainage. A major defects inspection focuses on issues that affect safety, structure, and costly repairs.
Yes, we assess crack location, direction, width, and pattern, plus nearby factors such as doors that bind, sloping floors, and external brickwork movement. Hairline plaster cracking can be cosmetic, while stepped cracks through brick mortar joints or widening cracks around openings can indicate movement or inadequate support. We explain what we observed and when engineering advice is the next step.
We inspect accessible roof space and roof elements for signs of movement, water entry, timber deterioration, and inadequate bracing or supports. We also look at likely leak points like flashings, valleys, and penetrations. Roof issues can cause hidden damage that only shows up later as stained ceilings, sagging plaster, or mould. We document the risk and outline practical actions.
They can be. Burwood East has many properties that have been updated over time, and defects often occur at junctions where new work meets old—roof lines, wall tie-ins, altered drainage, and modified load paths. We pay close attention to those interfaces, looking for cracking, moisture entry, uneven floors, and workmanship indicators. If access is limited, we note it and recommend targeted follow-up checks.
A major defects inspection is more focused on identifying serious structural and safety concerns and explaining their likely causes and consequences. It prioritises issues that could require significant repairs—such as footing movement, roof structure problems, active water ingress, and unsafe alterations. A standard pre-purchase inspection is broader and may include more minor maintenance items; this service concentrates on what could materially affect the property’s value and safety.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on serious structural and safety issues common in Burwood East’s mix of older homes and renovated properties. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange an inspection.