Canterbury’s mix of heritage homes, renovated family houses and mature trees can hide serious structural movement, roof leaks and unsafe alterations—this inspection targets the defects most likely to be costly here.
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We inspect brickwork, render, internal plaster and junctions around openings for crack patterns, stepped cracking and separation that can indicate footing movement or inadequate lintels. We also look for distortion in floors and door/window operation to confirm whether movement is active or historic.
We check for sagging bearers, deteriorated stumps, inadequate supports and moisture-related decay. In homes with extensions, we look for mismatched levels or ad-hoc supports that can create long-term structural issues and expensive rectification work.
We examine roof framing (where visible), tiles or metal sheeting, flashing, valleys, gutters and penetrations for defects that lead to water ingress. Leaks often present as ceiling staining far from the entry point, so we trace likely pathways and identify high-risk junctions.
We assess cladding/brickwork condition, weep holes (where applicable), sealing at penetrations, balcony edges and thresholds for signs of moisture entry. Poor water management can cause rot, corrosion and concealed structural damage over time.
We look for leaking fixtures, failed waterproofing symptoms, swelling/skirting damage, mould, persistent damp odours and moisture staining around bathrooms, laundries and kitchens. These issues can become major defects when they affect framing, subfloors or adjoining rooms.
Without performing invasive testing, we identify visible safety hazards such as damaged cabling, outdated or unsafe switchboard elements, DIY-style alterations and inadequate protection. If we find red flags, we recommend the right level of electrical follow-up before settlement.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Canterbury, we often see defects linked to older construction and later renovations, such as cracking from movement, leaking roofs at complex junctions, damp subfloors from poor drainage, and wet-area moisture damage. Renovated homes can also show structural shortcuts where extensions join the original house. We focus on defects that impact safety, structural integrity and the likely cost to rectify.
Yes. While we don’t excavate, we assess visible indicators of footing or foundation movement by reviewing cracking patterns, wall and ceiling separations, floor level changes, and sticking doors or windows. We also look at external site drainage and moisture signs that can worsen movement over time. If the signs suggest active movement, we’ll recommend an engineer assessment for confirmation and scope.
We identify visible red flags that commonly point to unsafe or non-compliant work, such as damaged cabling, suspect switchboard components, poor isolation, or plumbing leaks and water damage around wet areas. A building inspection isn’t a substitute for a full electrical or plumbing compliance test, but it’s effective at highlighting where specialist testing is needed before you finalise a purchase.
Extensions and renovations can introduce major defect risks where old and new structures meet—differences in footing depth, framing methods or roof lines can cause cracking, leaks and uneven floors. We pay close attention to transition points, load-bearing changes, removed walls, and roof junctions. We also look for moisture entry around new bathrooms or laundries, which can become costly if waterproofing has failed.
We document the defect with photos, explain why it matters, and outline practical next steps. That may include requesting an engineer, roofer, plumber or electrician to quote and confirm the repair approach. We also help you understand urgency—what needs immediate attention versus what can be planned. This gives you the information to renegotiate, add contract conditions, or walk away if needed.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchCall ACE Building and Pest Inspections on 0413 163 187 for a Canterbury-focused defect inspection that targets structural movement, moisture damage and safety hazards before they become expensive surprises.