Kensington’s mix of older terraces, walk-up units and warehouse-style conversions can hide safety issues like outdated wiring, steep stairs, poor balustrades and damp-related hazards—especially in renovated properties where finishes can mask defects.
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We check accessible electrical components and visible warning signs such as older style switchboards, unsafe cabling, missing covers, exposed conductors, and evidence of overheating. These issues can increase the risk of electric shock or fire and often require prompt assessment by a qualified electrician.
We assess stair geometry, stability, tread condition, and the presence and integrity of handrails and balustrades. In Kensington terraces and multi-level renovations, steep stairs and non-compliant balustrades are common safety risks, particularly for children and older occupants.
We inspect bathrooms, laundries and kitchens for signs of leaks, water damage, loose tiles, and inadequate sealing around showers and sinks. Persistent moisture can create slip hazards and contribute to deterioration in flooring and structural timbers, especially where waterproofing has failed.
We look for visible mould growth, condensation patterns, musty odours, and poor ventilation in bathrooms, bedrooms and underfloor areas. Mould-prone zones can be a safety issue for respiratory health and can also signal hidden leaks or rising damp that needs investigation.
We check accessible external areas for uneven paving, unstable steps, deteriorated decking, and insecure fencing or gates. Small Kensington blocks and shared accessways can hide trip hazards that become more dangerous at night or during wet weather.
We note materials and locations that may warrant specialist advice, such as older sheeting, flaking paint, or insulation types commonly found in pre-1990s homes. Identifying suspect materials early helps you plan safe renovations and avoid accidental exposure during repairs.
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Get Safety Hazards as part of a comprehensive inspection package
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Kensington, we often see hazards linked to older building stock and piecemeal renovations. Common issues include older electrical components, steep or uneven stairs, loose or low balustrades on balconies, water leaks that create slippery surfaces, and poor ventilation leading to mould. In walk-up units, shared stairwells and lighting can also be a practical safety concern. The inspection focuses on accessible, high-risk areas.
Yes, we look for visible indicators that relate to fire safety, such as the presence and placement of smoke alarms where accessible, and signs of electrical overheating or unsafe wiring that can elevate fire risk. We don’t certify electrical compliance, but we document clear warning signs and advise when an electrician should attend. For strata buildings, we also note shared-area risks we can observe.
A Safety Hazards inspection is more targeted toward risks that could cause injury, illness or immediate danger, rather than only describing general condition. We still draw on building knowledge, but we prioritise things like fall hazards, electrical red flags, wet area slip risks, and moisture/mould concerns. The report is structured to help you decide what needs urgent attention and what trades to contact next.
They can be. Many Kensington terraces have narrow footprints and steep internal stairs, and renovations sometimes alter layouts without improving safety. Balconies, front steps and raised verandahs can also have aging timbers or inadequate handrails. During the inspection we check stability, fixings, and obvious design risks in accessible areas, then flag what may require repairs or a specialist assessment before you move in.
Conversions can look polished but still hide practical hazards. We often see changes in floor levels, hard finishes that become slippery when wet, and balustrades or stair details that don’t feel secure. Ventilation can also be an issue in apartments with limited opening windows, which increases condensation and mould risk. We focus on accessible areas and document any safety-related concerns so you can follow up with the vendor or strata.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchCall ACE Building and Pest Inspections on 0413 163 187 for a Kensington-focused inspection that highlights real safety risks in older homes, units and conversions—so you know what needs fixing before settlement.