Loading...
Loading...
Highett’s mix of older brick veneers, coastal weathering and renovation-heavy homes can hide serious movement, roof framing issues and water-driven structural damage.
Answer a few quick questions to receive your personalised quote for Highett
Complete this step to continue
Our comprehensive service includes everything you need to make an informed decision about your property.
We inspect cracking patterns in brickwork, plaster and around doors/windows to help distinguish typical ageing from signs of footing movement, differential settlement or structural strain that may need engineer input.
Where safe access is available, we check for sagging bearers, damaged joists, deterioration to stumps, poor ventilation and moisture conditions that can lead to structural distortion and bouncy floors.
We visually assess trusses/rafters, underpurlins, strutting and key connections for sagging, splitting, water staining, corrosion and signs of alterations that can compromise roof performance in strong winds and heavy rain.
We look for water ingress clues that often drive major defects—roof leaks, overflowing gutters, poor drainage and wet-area leakage—because prolonged moisture can rot timber, weaken fixings and trigger movement.
We check around openings and spans for lintel distress, step cracking, bulging walls and patch repairs that may indicate overloaded sections or issues from renovations, including removed/modified walls.
We identify visible hazards such as unstable balconies/decks, failing retaining walls, compromised stair framing and significant roof or ceiling deformation, and we explain the risk and urgency of rectification.
Discover why thousands of property buyers trust us with their most important investment.
Professional inspections with attention to every detail. Here's a glimpse of our work.
Inspection photo 1
Inspection photo 2
Inspection photo 3
Get Major Structural Defects as part of a comprehensive inspection package
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
A major structural defect is a serious issue that threatens the stability, serviceability or safety of the building. In Highett, common examples include significant movement-related cracking, failing roof framing, major timber decay from long-term moisture, unstable decks or balconies, and deteriorated subfloor supports causing sagging floors. Our inspection focuses on visible, accessible signs and explains likely causes and next steps, including when an engineer is recommended.
We assess the location, direction, width and pattern of cracking, plus related symptoms like sticking doors, uneven floors and separation at joins. While a visual inspection can’t replace engineering calculations, it can identify red flags that suggest movement or structural stress rather than typical shrinkage. If the cracking pattern suggests active or significant movement, we’ll recommend appropriate follow-up, such as monitoring or a structural engineer assessment.
Yes, where safe and accessible. Many major structural defects are first visible in the roof space (sagging members, damaged connections, water staining) or under the floor (deteriorated stumps, rot, inadequate ventilation, moisture). If access is restricted due to low clearance, stored items, or unsafe conditions, we’ll note the limitation and advise what further access or specialist inspection may be needed.
They can be. Highett has plenty of updated homes where walls have been removed, openings widened, or new extensions tied into older structures. Problems can arise if load paths were altered without adequate support, if beams/lintels are undersized, or if extension joins move differently to the original house. During the inspection, we look for tell-tale signs such as cracking around new openings, uneven floors, and patch repairs that may mask ongoing movement.
This service is a visual structural inspection, so we don’t certify plumbing or electrical compliance. However, we do note visible issues that can contribute to major structural defects, such as leaks, poor drainage, water staining, unsafe penetrations, or damage that suggests ongoing moisture. If we see indicators that point to plumbing or electrical risks, we’ll recommend the right licensed trade or specialist to assess compliance and safety.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the structural deal-breakers—movement, framing issues and moisture-driven damage—so you can act with confidence. Call 0485 857 077 to arrange your Highett inspection.