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Eltham’s sloping blocks, mature trees and mix of older weatherboards and renovated homes can hide movement, drainage issues and roof framing problems until they become expensive.
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Our comprehensive service includes everything you need to make an informed decision about your property.
We check wall and ceiling cracking patterns, separation at cornices, door/window alignment and masonry step-cracking to help distinguish typical ageing from movement that may indicate footing or frame issues.
For homes with subfloors, we visually inspect stumps, bearers and joists for signs of rotation, subsidence, moisture damage and inadequate support. This matters in Eltham where raised homes on sloping sites can show unevenness when supports shift.
We inspect accessible roof framing for sagging, altered trusses/rafters, inadequate bracing and signs of long-term leaks. Structural roof issues can be costly and may worsen quickly after storms or ongoing water entry.
We visually check retaining walls and adjacent ground for bulging, leaning, cracking and drainage shortcomings that can load up the soil behind them and contribute to building movement on neighbouring footings.
We identify visible drainage and plumbing-related issues that can undermine structural elements, including poor stormwater discharge, ponding near footings, leaking wet areas, and subfloor damp conditions linked to timber decay.
We note structural safety concerns such as unstable decks/verandahs, deteriorated balustrades, unsafe steps, and visible electrical or plumbing workmanship issues that present risk or indicate broader building quality problems.
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Get Major Structural Defects as part of a comprehensive inspection package
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Some cracking is common, especially in older homes or where seasonal moisture changes affect reactive soils. During the inspection we look at crack location, direction, width, recurrence and related symptoms like sloping floors or sticking doors. We also consider site factors typical in Eltham such as sloping blocks, drainage fall and large trees. If patterns suggest significant movement, we’ll recommend the right next step, often an engineer’s assessment.
A major structural defect is a fault that affects the building’s stability or could lead to serious damage or safety risk if not addressed. Examples include significant footing movement, failing stumps/bearers, major roof framing distortion, compromised load-bearing walls, or structural deterioration from ongoing moisture. We focus on defects that materially change repair costs or risk. Minor cosmetic issues may be noted, but the emphasis stays on integrity and safety.
Yes—where access is safe and available. Many Eltham homes have subfloors that can reveal stump movement, dampness and timber decay, and roof spaces that show leaks or framing changes from renovations. If access is blocked by low clearance, stored items, insulation, or safety hazards, we’ll note the limitation and explain what it means. Where appropriate, we’ll suggest ways to gain access or arrange a follow-up.
They can contribute, particularly where trees affect soil moisture around footings or interfere with drainage. In areas with reactive clay, drying and re-wetting cycles can lead to ground movement that shows up as cracking or uneven floors. We don’t diagnose specific root systems, but we do look for the building symptoms and site conditions that make tree influence more likely. If indicators are present, we’ll recommend specialist advice for the site.
Not always, but it’s common when defects indicate ongoing movement or compromised load-bearing elements. Our inspection is visual and designed to flag significant concerns and likely contributors, not to provide structural design or certification. If we identify major defects, we’ll outline the urgency, what further investigation may involve, and which specialist is appropriate (for example, a structural engineer, drainage contractor, or roofing specialist) so you can act efficiently.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections brings a practical, site-aware approach for Eltham homes—especially on sloping blocks and renovated older builds. Call 0485 857 077 to arrange your inspection.