Ivanhoe’s mix of older weatherboard homes, brick veneer builds and sloping blocks near the Yarra corridor can hide movement, moisture entry and roof framing issues that only show up under a structural-focused inspection.
Answer a few quick questions to receive your personalised quote for Ivanhoe
Complete this step to continue
Our comprehensive service includes everything you need to make an informed decision about your property.
We assess signs of active or historical movement such as stepped brick cracking, distorted openings, sloping floors and separation at junctions. Where accessible, we check subfloor supports, bearers, joists and evidence of re-stumping quality, because footing issues can drive widespread structural cracking and costly rectification.
We inspect internal and external walls for structural cracking patterns, bulging, out-of-plumb sections and improvised alterations. Lintels and supporting elements over doors/windows are reviewed for sagging or inadequate support, as failures here can indicate compromised load paths or poor renovation work.
Inside the roof cavity (where safe and accessible), we check trusses/rafters, bracing, tie-downs, signs of spread, and timber condition. We look for DIY modifications, cut members for services, and water staining that can weaken framing and lead to ceiling cracking or roof line distortion.
We look for roof and flashing defects, gutter overflow signs, rising damp indicators and wet-area leakage symptoms that can cause timber decay, masonry deterioration and subfloor instability. Moisture is a common trigger for major defects because it reduces material strength and accelerates movement.
Brickwork and rendered surfaces are checked for cracking severity, separation, spalling and potential tie corrosion indicators, particularly around openings and corners. We flag any conditions that present falling-material risks or suggest the wall system is no longer behaving as a stable structural element.
While not a full compliance certification, we identify visible plumbing leaks, poor drainage evidence, and electrical installation issues that can create fire or moisture hazards. These problems often contribute to structural deterioration (e.g., chronic leaks into framing or subfloor areas) and should be escalated to the right licensed trades.
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.
In Ivanhoe, we often see movement-related cracking around openings and at old-to-new extension junctions, subfloor support issues in older homes, and roof framing concerns where alterations have been made. Moisture entry from roof drainage problems or wet-area leaks can also drive timber decay and ongoing movement. The inspection focuses on defects that affect load-bearing performance, not just surface finish faults.
We look at crack location, pattern, width, direction and whether there are related symptoms like sticking doors, uneven floors, separation at cornices, or distortion in walls and window frames. Step cracking in brickwork, cracks that reopen after patching, and cracking paired with moisture staining can indicate an underlying structural driver. We explain likely causes and what further specialist advice may be needed.
Yes. Extensions can introduce major defects where structural loads transfer differently between the original building and the addition. We check for differential movement, inadequate supports, altered load-bearing walls, roof framing changes and drainage impacts that can cause ongoing settlement. While we’re not providing engineering design sign-off, we identify red flags that warrant an engineer or builder’s rectification assessment before you proceed.
Sloping sites can increase the likelihood of drainage concentration, retaining pressure issues and uneven moisture conditions around footings, which may contribute to movement. In Ivanhoe, this is particularly relevant where the house sits on cut-and-fill areas or where surface water is not directed away effectively. We look for movement indicators, drainage shortcomings and supporting structure performance to gauge the risk level.
We inspect the roof covering and roof space for defects that can lead to structural damage, such as leaks, poor flashing and timber deterioration. We also note visible plumbing and electrical issues that create safety hazards or contribute to moisture problems. For formal electrical or plumbing compliance testing, you’ll still need licensed trades, but our findings help you target the right follow-up quickly.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on high-consequence structural issues that can change a purchase decision. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange your Ivanhoe inspection and get clear guidance on the defects that matter most.