Footscray’s mix of older weatherboards, renovated cottages and apartment conversions can hide fall risks, DIY electrical issues and non-compliant stairs or balconies—hazards that don’t always show up at an open for inspection.
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We assess internal and external stairs for secure fixings, consistent riser heights, adequate tread depth, and safe handrail and balustrade conditions. This matters in Footscray homes with rear extensions, raised decks, and outdoor access stairs where falls are a common, preventable hazard.
We look for visible indicators of electrical risk such as old or modified switchboards, damaged power points, loose fittings, exposed wiring, and signs of DIY alterations. We’re not conducting electrical testing, but we identify red flags that warrant urgent review by a licensed electrician.
We check for the presence and sensible placement of smoke alarms, and we note blocked or unsafe exit paths where accessible. In compact Footscray layouts and multi-level townhouses, clear egress and working alarms are essential for reducing fire risk.
We inspect bathrooms, laundries and kitchens for slip hazards (smooth tiles, poor drainage, damaged flooring) and visible issues that can contribute to scalding or burns, such as tempering valve concerns and unsafe hot water system placement (where accessible and visible).
We assess accessible paths, steps, thresholds, paving and drainage points for trip hazards and unstable surfaces. Footscray properties often have narrow side access and rear laneways where uneven ground, ad-hoc paving and poor lighting can create frequent fall risks.
We check accessible garages and storage areas for hazards such as poor head clearance, unsecured shelving, deteriorated ceilings, and unsafe door operation. These spaces are commonly used for daily access and can present hazards that are easy to miss during inspections focused only on living rooms and bedrooms.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Footscray we often see fall hazards from steep or uneven stairs, loose handrails, and older decks or balconies that have been altered over time. Renovations can also introduce risks like mismatched floor levels, trip points at thresholds, and questionable electrical work. In apartments, hazards can include balcony balustrade issues, poorly maintained common-area lighting, and unsafe storage or carpark access areas (where accessible).
The inspection focuses on identifying practical safety risks and visible red flags, and we’ll note items that appear inconsistent with common safety expectations. However, it isn’t a compliance certificate and doesn’t replace specialist assessments or council approvals. If we identify concerns—such as balustrade height, stair geometry or electrical issues—we’ll recommend the appropriate licensed trade or consultant for formal compliance advice and rectification.
Yes, we check for the presence of smoke alarms and whether placement appears sensible for the layout we can access, and we note obvious issues that could affect safe exit paths. We don’t perform electrical testing of alarms, and we can’t verify wiring or interconnection without specialist equipment. If alarms are missing, poorly located or appear outdated, we’ll flag this clearly in the report.
We pay close attention to the join between original and renovated sections because that’s where trip hazards, level changes and non-uniform stairs often occur. We also look at external access to the extension, rear steps, decking edges, and handrail stability. Where services have been updated, we scan for visible signs of rushed work, especially around kitchens, bathrooms and laundries where moisture increases safety risk.
Use the report to prioritise immediate safety fixes, estimate repair costs, and decide whether you need follow-up checks from an electrician, builder or plumber before the contract goes unconditional. The photos and hazard rankings help you negotiate price or conditions, and they also guide your first-week safety actions after settlement—such as addressing stair hazards, fitting compliant alarms, and improving lighting on external paths.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the real-world hazards common in Footscray’s older-and-renovated homes and modern builds, with clear photos and prioritised actions. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange your inspection.