Fairfield has a mix of older weatherboard homes, renovated bungalows and newer townhouses—each can hide damp subfloors, aging roofs, and questionable extension work that only shows up in a thorough pre-purchase inspection.
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Where accessible, we check subfloor ventilation, signs of moisture, fungal decay, and timber deterioration. This matters in Fairfield’s older raised homes because damp subfloors can lead to bouncy floors, musty odours, and costly repairs that aren’t obvious during a quick open for inspection.
We inspect the roof space (where accessible) for water staining, roof leaks, insulation issues, and signs of past patch-ups. Ceiling cracking and sagging are also assessed because they can indicate moisture entry or structural movement, particularly after renovations or re-roofing.
We look for step cracking in brickwork, separation at joins, uneven floors, sticking doors and window alignment issues. These clues help identify potential movement, poor drainage, or footings problems—important on blocks with tree influence or where fill and new slabs have been added during redevelopment.
We check visible waterproofing risk signs, shower recess condition, damaged grout and silicone, and moisture-related deterioration to skirtings and door frames. Wet area failures are a frequent post-purchase surprise, and rectification can mean stripping finishes and re-waterproofing.
We assess gutters, downpipes, overflow points and how stormwater is managed at ground level. Poor discharge and blocked or undersized systems can contribute to subfloor dampness, wall staining and foundation movement, especially where driveways and paved areas direct water back toward the house.
We identify visible indicators of rushed or non-compliant work such as uneven transitions, unsupported openings, mismatched materials, inadequate ventilation to new rooms, and patch repairs that mask defects. This is particularly useful in Fairfield where many homes have been extended or cosmetically updated for sale.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
They can be. Many Fairfield homes with timber frames and raised floors can hide subfloor dampness, poor ventilation, deteriorated stumps, and timber decay that isn’t obvious during an open. Cosmetic updates may cover uneven floors or wall cracking. A pre purchase inspection focuses on accessible subfloor areas, drainage, roof leaks, and movement indicators so you understand what’s original, what’s been altered, and what may need early attention.
Your report outlines major defects, safety issues, and maintenance items found in accessible areas of the building. It documents visible signs of water entry, structural movement indicators, condition of wet areas, roof space observations (where accessible), external elements, and drainage red flags. Findings are explained in plain language so you can decide whether to negotiate, request further specialist advice, or walk away.
Yes—Pre Purchase Inspection Services can be performed on townhouses and many units, focusing on the areas you are purchasing and any accessible common-adjacent elements that affect your lot. We’ll assess internal defects, wet areas, doors/windows, ceilings, and visible structure. For strata properties, you should also review the owners corporation records, as some building issues may sit within common property responsibilities.
They often benefit from closer attention to moisture management. Properties in lower-lying pockets or near water corridors can be more sensitive to drainage performance, subfloor ventilation, and how stormwater is discharged away from the house. During the inspection we look for signs of dampness, poor site fall, blocked or ineffective downpipe discharge, and deterioration to timbers or masonry consistent with ongoing moisture exposure.
Time varies with the size, age and access of the property, but most inspections are completed within a typical inspection appointment window. Attending is strongly recommended because you can see key defects on-site and ask questions about severity and likely next steps. If you can’t attend, we can still deliver a detailed report and talk you through the findings so you’re clear on the risks before signing.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchChoose ACE Building and Pest Inspections for a thorough, buyer-focused inspection that calls out the real risks in Fairfield homes—especially damp subfloors, drainage issues and renovation shortcuts. Phone 0413 163 187.