Kew East has a mix of mid-century brick homes and renovated properties where hidden movement, subfloor moisture and roof alterations can turn into major defects if they’re not identified early.
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We look for signs of footing movement, uneven floors, bearer and joist deterioration, stump condition (where accessible), and moisture impacts under the home. These issues matter because movement and subfloor failure can drive widespread cracking and make future renovations far more expensive.
We assess significant cracking patterns, brickwork separation, bulging walls, and door/window binding that can indicate structural movement. In Kew East, extensions and altered internal layouts can change load paths, so we also consider whether cracking aligns with structural changes.
We inspect accessible roof space elements for sagging rafters, truss alterations, undersized supports, and signs of leaks. Water ingress from flashing failures or changed rooflines can create long-term timber decay and ceiling damage that isn’t obvious from inside the rooms.
We check bathrooms, laundries and kitchens for swelling, drummy tiles, cracking to junctions, staining and poor falls. Major defects in wet areas often show up as rot, mould and structural deterioration around showers and baths—especially where older bathrooms have been cosmetically updated.
We look for overflow relief gully issues, leaking taps and pipework signs, poor surface drainage, and downpipe discharge that can undermine footings. Drainage problems are a common trigger for movement and dampness, which can escalate into major structural defects.
We identify visible hazards such as damaged cabling, non-compliant DIY additions, unsafe switchboards, and heat or burn marks. While a full electrical test requires a licensed electrician, our inspection highlights major risk areas that can affect safety and insurance outcomes.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Kew East we often see defects linked to movement (significant cracking, sticking doors, uneven floors), subfloor moisture and timber decay, and water entry from older roof details or altered roof plumbing. Renovations can also introduce issues such as inadequately supported openings, poor wet area waterproofing, or non-compliant electrical additions. Our inspection focuses on defects that affect safety, structure and costly rectification.
Yes, where safe access is available. We inspect visible signs of footing movement and evaluate the subfloor for moisture, ventilation limitations, stump condition (if present), and deterioration in bearers and joists. If access is restricted, we document the limitation and explain what that may mean for risk. Subfloor problems can drive structural movement and ongoing repairs if left unchecked.
We prioritise areas where new work interfaces with old structure: altered load-bearing walls, beams supporting larger openings, and roof framing changes. We also pay close attention to wet areas (waterproofing indicators), roof drainage and flashing, and any signs of shortcuts like uneven finishes that align with cracking or movement. Where required, we recommend targeted specialist checks before you proceed.
Poor drainage can saturate soils around footings, increasing the chance of movement and cracking. In Kew East, raised garden beds, paving levels too high against walls, or downpipes discharging near the house can keep moisture against the structure and contribute to dampness. During the inspection we look for the building impacts of these conditions and the drainage red flags that often sit behind them.
Yes. If we identify signs consistent with structural failure, significant movement, roof framing modification concerns, or serious safety hazards, we’ll clearly recommend the right next step—often a structural engineer, licensed electrician, or plumber. You’ll get enough detail to brief the specialist efficiently, and to decide whether the purchase or renovation timeline needs to change.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections targets the structural, moisture and safety defects that commonly hide behind renovations and older construction in Kew East—call 0413 163 187 to arrange an inspection.