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Essendon’s mix of older period homes, extended bungalows and renovated brick veneers can hide movement, ageing roof framing and altered load paths behind fresh finishes—exactly the issues this inspection is built to uncover.
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Our comprehensive service includes everything you need to make an informed decision about your property.
We check for signs of differential settlement, uneven floors, stump or bearer issues (where accessible), and cracking patterns that suggest movement rather than simple shrinkage. This matters because shifting foundations can distort the entire structure, affecting doors/windows, roof lines and wall integrity.
We look for removed or modified walls, undersized lintels, unapproved openings and evidence of patching that may conceal structural changes. In Essendon’s renovated homes, altered load paths can lead to sagging ceilings, cracking at corners, and long-term roof or floor deflection.
We inspect the roof space (where safe and accessible) for rafter and truss condition, ridge alignment, collar ties, bracing and signs of roof spread. Major defects here can create ongoing movement, water entry points and, in severe cases, compromised structural stability.
For brickwork and rendered walls, we assess cracking type, step cracking, bulging, and separation at junctions. We also look at control joints and how additions tie into the original structure, because incompatible movement can cause repeated cracking and water penetration.
We investigate areas prone to concealed moisture—bathrooms, laundries, balconies, and around plumbing penetrations—looking for swelling, rot risk, corrosion, and loss of structural performance in framing or flooring. Moisture is a common trigger for major defects that keep worsening if not addressed.
While this is not a substitute for specialist compliance certification, we note visible indicators that may link to structural risk—unprotected penetrations, DIY alterations, leaks, and poor drainage that can undermine supports. Early identification helps you scope the right trades and reduce escalation.
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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.
In Essendon, defects are often hidden behind fresh plaster, new flooring, and updated kitchens or bathrooms. We commonly see warning signs linked to removed walls without adequate support, undersized beams or lintels, and extensions that don’t integrate well with the original structure. Roof alterations and upgraded ceilings can also mask sagging framing. Our inspection focuses on the “why” behind cracks and movement, not just the cosmetic finish.
Yes, we assess crack location, width, direction and the surrounding symptoms (door misalignment, floor levels, roof line changes and junction separation). Some cracking can be non-structural, but patterns such as stepped cracking in masonry, recurring cracks around openings, or cracks that align with movement indicators may suggest structural issues. We explain the likely cause and outline what further investigation (if any) is appropriate.
Where safe and accessible, we inspect roof spaces and subfloors because that’s where major structural defects often show first—framing distortion, inadequate bracing, moisture damage, and compromised supports. If access is limited (low clearance, stored items, unsafe conditions), we document the limitation and focus on indirect indicators inside and outside the home. We’ll also advise practical next steps if restricted access could affect certainty.
Older timber-framed homes can show movement over time, particularly if supports have aged, drainage has changed, or renovations have altered loads. That doesn’t automatically mean the house is unsafe, but it does mean you need to interpret signs carefully—especially uneven floors, persistent cracking, and roof line changes. Our Major Structural Defects inspection is designed to identify whether the movement is historic and stable or active and escalating.
We clearly outline the defect, the likely cause, and the risk level, then recommend practical next steps. That may include engaging a structural engineer, a roofing carpenter, or a licensed plumber to confirm scope and repair options. For buyers, this information helps you negotiate, request rectification, or set contract conditions. For owners, it helps you prioritise repairs to stop the defect worsening and protect the structure.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the structural issues that can be concealed in Essendon’s renovated and older homes—foundations, roof framing, load-bearing changes and moisture-driven damage. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange an inspection.