Heathmont homes on sloping blocks and reactive clay soils can show movement that’s easy to miss at inspections—cracks, sticking doors, and uneven floors may point to serious structural issues.
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We check for stepped brick cracking, slab edge distress, uneven floors, door/window misalignment and signs of differential settlement. These indicators help separate minor ageing from movement that could affect the building’s stability and resale value.
Where accessible, we inspect subfloor supports for sagging, rot, inadequate bracing, corrosion and termite damage that compromises load paths. In Heathmont’s sloped sites, subfloor height changes can mask deflection and poor propping.
We look for truss or rafter alterations, cut webs, spread, undersized members, failed connections and signs of past leaks. Roof structural issues can present as ceiling cracks, bowing roof lines and ongoing water entry that damages framing.
We check wall planes, bulging, cracking patterns, lintel support and corrosion, plus articulation joint performance where present. This is critical for identifying structural stress versus surface plaster cracking.
We assess external drainage fall, downpipe discharge points, subfloor moisture conditions, wet area leak indicators and staining that suggests long-term damp. Ongoing moisture is a major driver of timber decay, corrosion and masonry movement.
We note visible hazards that can accompany structural defects, such as damaged balustrades, unstable retaining walls, unsafe roof access points, and signs of non-compliant plumbing or electrical work that has caused water damage or heat damage to structural elements.
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Cracks are common, but the pattern and location matter. In Heathmont we often see cracking influenced by ground movement and drainage. We assess whether cracks are stepped through brickwork, widening, or accompanied by uneven floors, sticking doors and roof line changes. We also look for moisture drivers and recent patching. Where signs point to active movement, we recommend targeted builder or engineer follow-up.
We focus on defects that threaten stability or indicate significant deterioration: footing movement, subfloor sag and failed supports, compromised load-bearing walls or lintels, roof framing alterations or spread, and long-term water ingress causing rot or corrosion. We also flag unsafe elements such as unstable retaining walls or compromised balustrades where they relate to structural performance and occupant safety.
We inspect roof voids and subfloors where safe and accessible. Older homes can have low-clearance subfloors, tight manholes, or stored items that restrict entry. If access is limited, we document what couldn’t be inspected and explain the risk, because hidden framing defects, moisture damage, or unauthorised alterations often sit in these spaces. We may recommend further invasive inspection where warranted.
They can. Sloping sites often rely on retaining walls, cut-and-fill areas and effective drainage to control water. If retaining walls lean, crack, or lack drainage relief, they can shift and affect nearby footings and paving. We look for movement indicators, drainage issues and how the site falls around the house. If the wall appears structurally compromised, we’ll recommend specialist assessment.
We’re not performing a full plumbing or electrical compliance test, but we do look for visible red flags that affect the structure. That includes shower or wet area leaks, downpipe issues causing damp subfloors, and heat or water damage around services penetrations. If we see indicators of non-compliant or unsafe work contributing to deterioration, we’ll note it and recommend the right licensed trade for confirmation.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the serious issues that change buying decisions—movement, moisture-driven deterioration and compromised framing—so you know what you’re taking on before you sign. Call 0413 163 187.