Burwood East homes often include brick veneer builds with later extensions, plus heavy clay soils and mature trees that can drive movement and cracking. A targeted structural defects inspection helps you spot the issues that can become expensive fast.
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We assess signs of foundation movement such as stepped brick cracking, wall rotation, uneven floors, and door/window misalignment. In Burwood East, reactive soils and moisture changes can drive movement; distinguishing minor shrink–swell symptoms from major structural distress is critical for budgeting and safety.
We look for altered or removed structural walls, undersized lintels, sagging beams, and poorly supported openings—especially around renovated kitchens, open-plan living conversions, and widened doorways. This matters because compromised load paths can lead to progressive cracking and roof/floor deflection.
We inspect accessible roof spaces for issues like rafter/truss modification, spread, sag, cracked members, inadequate bracing, and signs of long-term leaks affecting timbers. Roof framing defects can present as ceiling cracking, ridge line sag, and ongoing water entry that accelerates structural decay.
Where accessible, we check bearers, joists, piers, and subfloor conditions for moisture accumulation, inadequate ventilation, and timber damage that can undermine structural capacity. Poor drainage and leaking services can keep subfloor areas damp, contributing to decay and movement.
We assess brickwork and external walls for bulging, separation, significant mortar deterioration, and cracking patterns that suggest movement or tie failure. This is important for brick veneer homes where wall ties and moisture management influence long-term stability.
We track likely sources of water affecting structural elements—roof penetrations, gutters/valleys, wet-area leaks, and site drainage that directs water toward footings. Persistent moisture is a key driver of major defects, including timber damage, slab edge issues, and ongoing internal cracking.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Burwood East we often see movement-related cracking linked to reactive soils and drainage issues, especially where gardens and established trees affect ground moisture. We also regularly find concerns around renovations—removed walls, undersized lintels, and poorly integrated extensions. Roof space issues can include altered trusses, sagging members, and leak-related timber deterioration that can compromise structural performance.
We look at crack location, width, direction, and whether they align with movement indicators such as uneven floors, racked door frames, or repeated cracking after patching. Stepped cracking through brickwork, cracks radiating from openings, and separation between materials can indicate movement. We also consider moisture sources and site drainage, because ongoing water issues can drive structural change over time.
Yes. Where safe and accessible, we inspect the roof space to identify sagging or damaged framing, cut or modified trusses/rafters, inadequate bracing, and signs of long-term moisture. Leaks can weaken timbers and contribute to ceiling deformation and cracking. We also check likely external entry points such as flashings, valleys, and gutter overflow risks that can affect structural elements.
They can. Many Burwood East properties have been updated with larger openings, removed walls, or rear additions. If beams, posts, lintels, or footings weren’t designed or installed correctly, loads can transfer in unintended ways and cause sagging, cracking, or ongoing movement. Our inspection focuses on visible evidence of altered load paths and support adequacy, and we’ll recommend further engineering checks where needed.
Start by understanding the cause and whether it’s active (still moving or deteriorating) or historical. We’ll highlight priority defects and the areas most likely to require further assessment. For major movement, compromised load-bearing elements, or significant framing concerns, the next step is usually a structural engineer and, in some cases, more invasive investigation. Use the findings to renegotiate, budget, or reconsider the purchase.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchSpeak with ACE Building and Pest Inspections to pinpoint serious structural risks common in Burwood East renovations, movement-prone sites, and older builds. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange an inspection.