Jolimont’s mix of older brick flats, renovated terraces and newer apartments can hide high-cost defects like cracking, water ingress and balcony failures—especially near rail corridors and busy event-day traffic.
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We inspect cracking patterns in external masonry, internal walls and ceilings, and around openings to identify signs consistent with foundation movement, lintel issues or failed past repairs. This helps separate superficial cracking from defects that may require engineering advice or significant rectification.
Where accessible, we examine subfloor conditions, ventilation, dampness indicators and how stormwater is managed around the building. Poor drainage, blocked subfloor vents and persistent moisture can contribute to timber deterioration, mould conditions and movement that becomes a major defect over time.
We check roof coverings, ridge capping, valleys, flashings, gutters and downpipes for defects that commonly lead to concealed water damage. Chronic roof leaks can compromise framing, ceilings and insulation, and can be expensive to trace and repair—especially where access is limited.
We look for drummy tiles, failed joints, inadequate falls, cracking at edges, rust staining and moisture entry points around balconies and parapets. These areas are frequent sources of major defects in multi-level living because water can migrate into slabs and walls, creating long-term deterioration.
We assess visible staining, swelling, efflorescence and mould indicators around bathrooms, laundries and kitchens, plus external cladding junctions where water can track behind finishes. Ongoing moisture is a major defect driver because it can damage structure, finishes and indoor air quality.
We identify visible warning signs such as unsafe wiring practices, deteriorated switchboards, unprotected penetrations, leaks and poor pipe support. While we don’t certify electrical/plumbing compliance on a building inspection, we flag conditions that warrant urgent review by licensed trades due to fire, shock or water-damage risk.
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Get Major Building Defects as part of a comprehensive inspection package
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Jolimont we commonly see issues linked to building age and design: cracking in masonry or internal plaster from movement, persistent water entry from roofs/box gutters, and balcony or parapet waterproofing failures in multi-level buildings. Renovated properties can also hide altered walls or poorly finished wet areas. A major defects inspection focuses on the defects that affect structural integrity, safety and high-cost rectification risk.
Proximity to rail and busy arterial routes can make existing movement more noticeable and can amplify rattles that owners may have ignored. It doesn’t automatically mean a building is unsafe, but it does make it important to assess cracking patterns, prior repairs, and how the structure is performing. We look for indicators of active movement versus older, stable cracking and recommend next steps when further investigation is warranted.
We assess crack location, width, direction, repetition and whether there are related symptoms such as sticking doors/windows, sloping floors or separation at junctions. These clues help determine whether cracking is likely superficial (shrinkage, minor settlement) or consistent with structural movement that could be a major defect. If signs point to ongoing movement, we’ll advise on engaging a structural engineer for confirmation and repair design.
They can be. Many inner-city apartment buildings rely on balconies, planter boxes, parapets and complex drainage detailing. When these systems fail, water can travel into slabs and walls and remain hidden until damage is extensive. During the inspection we look for tell-tale signs such as drummy tiles, cracking at edges, staining and moisture entry points, and we explain what further testing or specialist assessment may be needed.
First, treat safety hazards as urgent—electrical risks, severe movement, significant water ingress or unstable elements should be addressed immediately. Next, use the findings to request further specialist reports (engineer, waterproofing, roofing, electrician) and obtain repair quotes. That information helps you negotiate a fair price, request rectification, or decide whether the property’s risk profile doesn’t suit your budget and timelines.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the high-risk defects that can derail a Jolimont purchase—structural movement, water ingress, roof failures and safety hazards. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange your inspection.