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Carnegie has a mix of older brick homes, updated weatherboards and multi-unit developments—major defects can hide behind renovations, balconies and roof spaces. A focused defects inspection helps you spot structural and safety issues before they become expensive rectification works.
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Our comprehensive service includes everything you need to make an informed decision about your property.
We check for cracking patterns in masonry, plaster and external cladding, plus out-of-square openings and sloping floors. This helps distinguish cosmetic cracking from signs of footing movement, framing distress or lintel issues that may require engineering advice.
We inspect accessible roof coverings, flashings, valleys, penetrations and guttering for defects that can lead to major water entry. In Carnegie, modernised homes and units often rely on complex roof junctions—small failures can cause hidden rot, mould and ceiling collapse risks.
For homes with subfloor access, we assess stump alignment, bearer and joist condition, ventilation and moisture levels. This identifies major defects such as subsidence indicators, timber decay, and poor drainage under the house that can compromise structural stability.
We look for evidence of shower and bathroom leaks, failed waterproofing, swelling/skirting damage, and moisture staining around laundries and kitchens. These issues can damage framing and flooring and can escalate into major rectification works if left untreated.
We assess visible signs of removed or altered load-bearing walls, undersized beams, sagging ceilings and inadequate support points. This is critical in renovated Carnegie properties where open-plan conversions may have been completed without appropriate structural design.
While not a substitute for a full electrical/plumbing compliance test, we identify visible hazards and defect indicators such as unsafe cabling in roof spaces, non-compliant penetrations, active leaks, poor stormwater connections and overflow risks that can damage footings and interiors.
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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 can affect structural integrity, safety, or lead to significant damage if not addressed. In Carnegie this can include structural movement, failing stumps or bearers, major roof leaks, severe moisture ingress, unsafe building alterations, and defects that indicate plumbing or electrical hazards. We focus on defects that materially change risk and repair cost, not minor wear and tear.
We assess the location, width, direction and pattern of cracking, plus related signs such as sticking doors, uneven floors and separation at junctions. Some cracking is minor, but stepped cracking in brickwork, widening gaps or repeated repairs can indicate movement. If the indicators suggest structural concern, we’ll recommend the right next step, which may include an engineer’s assessment.
Yes—where safe and accessible. Roof spaces can reveal leaks, unsafe wiring indicators, framing issues and moisture damage that isn’t visible from inside the living areas. Subfloors (where present) help confirm stump condition, drainage and timber decay risks. If access is restricted, we note the limitation and advise how to proceed, such as requesting access or further investigation.
They can be. Balconies, parapets and box gutters rely on good waterproofing and drainage detailing. Failures may not show until water has tracked into wall cavities or ceilings, causing rot, mould or plaster damage. We look for staining, ponding indicators, deteriorated flashings, inadequate fall and other warning signs, then advise on whether a specialist waterproofing assessment is warranted.
We identify visible defect indicators and safety concerns, but we don’t replace a dedicated compliance test by a licensed electrician or plumber. If we see warning signs—such as active leaks, poor stormwater discharge, unsafe cabling in accessible areas, or damaged service components—we’ll document them and recommend appropriate specialist testing so you can confirm compliance and repair scope.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the structural and safety issues that matter for Carnegie’s mix of older homes and updated multi-unit properties. Call 0485 857 077 to organise your inspection.