Coburg homes often mix older weatherboards and post-war brick veneers with newer extensions, which can hide movement, roof framing issues and altered load paths that only show up under a focused structural defects check.
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We check for signs of footing or stump movement, subfloor ventilation problems, and uneven bearing points that can lead to sloping floors and progressive cracking. This matters in Coburg where older underfloor structures and incremental repairs can hide ongoing movement rather than fix it.
We assess crack patterns and measure/compare areas of distortion around doors, windows, and junctions between original rooms and extensions. The goal is to separate shrinkage or minor settlement from cracking that suggests structural movement, inadequate support, or altered load-bearing walls.
We inspect accessible roof framing for sagging ridgelines, undersized or altered members, spread at wall plates, and defects around supports. Roof structure issues can be costly and can indicate broader movement or past alterations that weren’t properly engineered.
We look for indicators that walls have been removed or openings widened without adequate lintels, posts, or support—common in open-plan renovations. We focus on tell-tale signs like cracking above openings, ceiling drops, and misaligned frames that point to compromised load paths.
We investigate areas where water entry can undermine structural components, including bathrooms, laundries, balconies, and around external penetrations. Persistent moisture can rot timbers, weaken floor structures, and accelerate brickwork movement, turning a small leak into a major defect.
While this service targets structural defects, we also flag visible compliance and safety concerns that can interact with structural problems—such as deteriorated supports near plumbing leaks, unsafe cabling in roof voids, or damaged elements around hot water services. These issues can affect repair scope and urgency.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Coburg we often see defects linked to older subfloors and mixed-age renovations, such as uneven floors from movement, cracking that reflects footing or support issues, and roof framing that has been altered or is sagging. Rear extensions and open-plan changes can also introduce inadequate supports. The inspection focuses on defects that affect safety, stability, and major repair cost—not minor surface imperfections.
We look at the crack location, direction, width, and whether it aligns with distortion such as sticking doors, racking of frames, or changes between original and extended sections. We also assess external indicators like stepped brick cracking and internal signs around openings. Cosmetic cracks usually stay fine and consistent; structural cracking often forms patterns and is paired with movement indicators.
Yes. A clean finish can hide inadequate lintels, missing posts, or altered load paths—especially where walls were removed to create open-plan living. We check for signs such as cracking above openings, ceiling drops, uneven floors near modified areas, and roof structure changes. If the building relies on compromised support, the defect may worsen over time and become costly to rectify.
We inspect accessible roof voids and subfloor areas because many major structural defects show up there first—framing issues, moisture damage, or compromised supports. If access is restricted (low clearance, stored items, sealed manholes), we document the limitation and focus on indirect indicators inside and outside the home. Where the risk is high, we’ll recommend further access or specialist assessment.
First, treat urgent safety hazards as a priority and avoid further loading or DIY alterations. We’ll explain the likely cause, the areas affected, and the level of risk based on what’s visible. For rectification planning, we may recommend a structural engineer for design advice and confirmation, plus qualified trades for moisture sources, roofing, or support repairs. This helps you price repairs and negotiate accurately.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on high-consequence structural issues—movement, framing faults, moisture-driven deterioration and risky alterations—so you can make a clear decision on your Coburg property. Call 0413 163 187.