Forest Hill has a mix of older brick veneer homes and renovated properties where movement, ageing roof framing, and poorly altered load-bearing walls can hide serious structural faults.
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We assess cracking in brickwork, plaster, cornices, and around openings, then consider the pattern and location to distinguish cosmetic cracking from movement-related cracking that can indicate footing problems or structural stress.
Where the subfloor is accessible, we check stumps, piers, bearers and joists for sagging, packing, separation, moisture damage, and borer activity. These issues can cause uneven floors, door misalignment, and ongoing movement.
In the roof space (where safe access is available), we inspect for cracked or cut members, inadequate bracing, water staining, and signs of roof spread. Structural roof defects can lead to ceiling movement, wall cracking, and costly repairs.
We look for indicators of removed or altered load-bearing walls, undersized beams, inadequate posts, and DIY modifications. In Forest Hill, renovated homes can hide structural changes behind new linings, so we focus on tell-tale deflection and cracking clues.
We check window and door openings for lintel rusting, brick stepping, and distortion that can indicate failure or movement. These defects can worsen over time and affect both safety and weatherproofing.
We inspect bathrooms, laundries and kitchens for moisture entry that can damage framing, flooring and wall linings. Ongoing leaks can lead to rot, swelling, and loss of structural capacity, not just surface staining.
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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.
Cracks can appear in many Forest Hill properties, especially in older homes and where drainage or ground movement affects footings. Hairline cracks in plaster can be cosmetic, but wider cracks, stepped cracking through brickwork, and cracks that reappear after repair can indicate movement. We assess the location, direction, and severity of cracking, plus related signs like sticking doors and sloping floors.
A major structural defect is a fault that significantly affects the stability or performance of key structural elements such as footings, floors, walls, roof framing, or major beams. Examples include significant footing movement, failing stumps, compromised roof members, severe moisture-related rot, or unsafe structural alterations. We focus on defects that are likely to require substantial repairs or further engineering assessment.
Yes. Fresh paint and new plaster can hide previous cracking, moisture staining, or patch repairs. We look for indirect indicators such as uneven surfaces, inconsistent finishes, changes in floor level, new linings over older structures, and distortion around doors and windows. Where access is available, checking the subfloor and roof space often reveals whether renovations have affected structural elements.
They can. Established vegetation and variable drainage can contribute to moisture changes around footings, which may lead to movement in some properties. We look for signs of poor stormwater discharge, ponding near the house, soil erosion, and movement-related cracking patterns. While we don’t perform geotechnical testing, our inspection highlights risk indicators so you can consider further advice or targeted repairs.
First, use the findings to clarify the risk and likely scope of work. Depending on the issue, the next step may be a structural engineer’s assessment, a plumbing/drainage review for water-related causes, or obtaining quotes from qualified builders. We’ll explain what we observed, why it matters, and what follow-up is sensible, so you can negotiate the price, request repairs, or reconsider the purchase.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchCall ACE Building and Pest Inspections on 0413 163 187 for a focused structural assessment that targets the serious faults Forest Hill buyers can’t afford to miss.