Clifton Hill’s mix of older terraces, renovated weatherboards and sloping blocks near creek corridors can hide movement, moisture damage and unsafe alterations—issues that only show up with a focused structural defects inspection.
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We inspect accessible subfloors for out-of-level floors, deteriorated or undersupported stumps, cracked or displaced piers, and sagging bearers/joists. These findings often explain sticking doors, uneven flooring, and recurring internal cracking—common symptoms when a Clifton Hill home has been re-stumped in stages or has drainage changes around the perimeter.
We map cracking in brickwork, plaster and cornices, noting width, direction, and location around openings. Stair-step cracks, separation at corners, and recurrent cracks after patching can indicate structural movement. You’ll get clear guidance on which cracks suggest significant defect risk versus normal ageing and settlement.
We assess accessible roof framing for deflection, cracked timbers, inadequate bracing, altered trusses/rafters from renovations, and signs of long-term moisture impact. Roof leaks can drive major structural defects by weakening timbers and causing wall movement, so we look for staining, mould, and rusted fixings that point to ongoing entry points.
Where visible, we check for signs that internal walls have been removed or modified without adequate support—such as undersized beams, poor bearing, or movement at ceiling lines. This is particularly important in Clifton Hill where open-plan conversions and rear extensions are common and structural loads may have been redistributed.
Bathrooms, laundries and balconies can introduce concealed moisture that leads to rotted floor framing, swollen skirting, and weakened wall bases. We look for membrane failure indicators, chronic leaks at penetrations, and tell-tale staining/softness that can escalate from a ‘leak’ into a major structural rectification job.
While this is a structural-defects focused inspection, we also note visible plumbing and electrical issues that increase structural and safety risk—such as uncontrolled moisture from leaks, unsafe wiring in roof spaces, or modifications that appear non-compliant. Where needed, we’ll recommend targeted follow-up by the right licensed trade or engineer.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Clifton Hill, we often see movement-related cracking, subfloor support problems (deteriorated stumps, sagging bearers/joists), and roof framing issues linked to older construction and later renovations. Wet area leaks can also cause hidden timber decay that presents as bouncy floors or swelling around door frames. The inspection focuses on whether these signs indicate an active structural problem that needs rectification or engineering input.
Yes. Renovations can improve presentation while leaving underlying structural problems unresolved, or they can introduce new risks if walls were removed, roof loads altered, or drainage changed without adequate detailing. We look for movement indicators around openings, uneven floor planes, roof spread/sag, and signs of inadequate support where open-plan layouts were created. If something looks concerning, we’ll explain what specialist follow-up is appropriate.
We assess crack location, width, direction and whether the cracking forms a pattern consistent with movement (for example, stair-step cracking in masonry or separation around windows and doors). We also compare internal and external signs and look for related symptoms such as sloping floors or roof deflection. While no visual inspection can replace an engineer’s design, we can clearly flag crack types that warrant urgent investigation.
They can. On sloping sites, water management is critical—poor surface drainage, blocked stormwater, or landscaping that redirects runoff can increase moisture around footings and subfloors. Over time this can contribute to foundation movement, stump deterioration, and recurring internal cracking. During the inspection we look for grading issues, moisture indicators and subfloor conditions that suggest drainage is contributing to structural defect risk.
We explain the defect in plain language, identify the likely cause where visible, and outline practical next steps. Depending on what’s found, that may include engaging a structural engineer for assessment, obtaining quotes from a qualified builder, or having a licensed plumber/electrician address contributing issues such as leaks or unsafe roof-space wiring. The goal is to help you make an informed decision and prioritise repairs.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchCall ACE Building and Pest Inspections on 0413 163 187 for a Clifton Hill-focused assessment that targets movement, moisture damage and renovation-related structural risks—so you know what you’re buying and what it will cost to fix.