Essendon’s mix of older weatherboard homes, period brick houses and renovated extensions can hide unsafe wiring, loose stairs and non-compliant balustrades—hazards that don’t always show up at open inspections.
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We assess accessible parts of the switchboard and visible wiring for warning signs such as outdated components, missing safety switches (RCDs), poor labelling, and heat or corrosion indicators. In Essendon homes with older electrical infrastructure, these issues can elevate shock and fire risk, especially where the property has been renovated and power demand has increased.
We inspect uneven flooring, lifted boards, cracked tiles, abrupt level changes, and poorly finished transitions between original rooms and newer extensions. These are common where older homes have been updated in stages. We note hazard locations and practical rectification options to reduce injury risk.
We check that stairs feel secure, handrails are firmly fixed, and balustrades on internal landings, balconies and decks appear stable and appropriately constructed. Loose or low balustrades and wobbly handrails can be a major fall risk, particularly on raised timber decks and entry steps found in many Essendon properties.
We look for slippery surfaces, poor drainage, water damage affecting floor strength, and electrical safety concerns around wet areas (such as poorly placed fittings or signs of moisture near electrical points). Wet areas are high-risk zones for slips and electrical incidents, so we flag issues needing urgent attention.
Where accessible, we identify visible red flags around gas appliances and ventilation, such as inadequate air flow, signs of spillage staining, or unsafe clearances. While this is not a substitute for a licensed gas fitting check, it helps you spot conditions that may warrant immediate specialist testing for safety.
We assess common outdoor risk areas including uneven pavers, cracked concrete, unstable retaining edges, and trip points at the entry. We also consider where poor surface drainage may contribute to slippery areas or undermine steps and paths—issues that can be overlooked during inspections but matter day-to-day.
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Get Safety Hazards as part of a comprehensive inspection package
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Essendon we often see hazards linked to older builds and later renovations. Common issues include outdated or poorly modified electrical systems, loose or non-compliant stair handrails, uneven flooring where extensions meet original rooms, and trip points at entries and paths. Raised decks and balconies can also present fall risks if balustrades are loose or poorly constructed.
Yes. A building inspection focuses on the condition of the structure and major defects, while a Safety Hazards inspection targets injury and fire risks that affect day-to-day living. We look closely at areas where people fall, slip or receive electric shock, and we highlight hazards with clear priorities. It complements a building report, especially for families and investors planning immediate occupancy.
We report on visible safety concerns and likely non-compliance risks based on current expectations, such as fall protection, stair safety and electrical red flags. However, full compliance certification often requires specialist testing and sign-off by licensed trades or relevant authorities. Our report helps you identify where a compliance check is warranted and what to ask for during due diligence.
They can. Renovations sometimes leave mismatched floor levels, narrow steps, poorly finished thresholds, or stair and deck balustrades that are not robust. Electrical modifications can also be problematic where new circuits were added to older systems without adequate protection. A Safety Hazards inspection is useful in Essendon because it focuses on how the home functions now, not just its original construction.
Most hazards can be prioritised immediately. The report clearly separates urgent safety issues (such as unstable rails, exposed wiring indicators, or severe trip hazards) from maintenance items that can be staged. If you’re purchasing, you can use the findings to request repairs, obtain quotes for rectification, or set conditions that certain high-risk items are addressed by licensed trades before settlement.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on practical, high-risk hazards common in Essendon’s older and renovated homes, with clear photos and prioritised actions. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange your inspection.