Kew East has a mix of mid-century brick veneer homes and renovated family houses where reactive clay soils, ageing roof framing, and poorly integrated extensions can hide serious movement and safety risks.
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We check for indicators of significant footing movement, including stepped brick cracking, differential settlement signs, and separation around frames. This matters because structural movement can compromise load-bearing elements and can be expensive to stabilise if it’s active or drainage-driven.
We inspect bearers, joists, stumps/piers, ant caps, and general subfloor conditions, plus ventilation and moisture drivers. Poor ventilation and damp subfloors can accelerate timber deterioration and contribute to uneven floors and long-term structural weakness.
We look for signs that walls have been altered or are overstressed, including cracking patterns, deflection, and inadequate support over openings. This is critical in renovated Kew East homes where larger openings and open-plan changes may have changed load paths.
We assess accessible roof framing for damage, deflection, previous modifications, and moisture staining that can weaken structural members. Roof structure problems can present as ceiling cracking, roofline sag, and ongoing water entry that worsens over time.
We identify likely sources of moisture that can drive major defects, such as inadequate drainage falls, blocked weepholes, flashing issues, and signs of persistent leaks. Moisture is a key trigger for timber decay, corrosion, and movement-related cracking.
We note major safety concerns and visible issues that commonly intersect with structural defects, such as compromised stairs/handrails, unsafe roof-space access conditions, and obvious electrical or plumbing issues that can create ongoing moisture damage. Where specialist sign-off is needed, we clearly recommend it.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Kew East we often see movement-related cracking in brickwork and internal linings, uneven floors linked to subfloor issues, and water-related damage that weakens timber framing. Renovations can also introduce problems where new openings or extensions aren’t properly supported. Our inspection focuses on identifying signs of structural stress, likely causes (such as drainage or moisture), and what specialist follow-up may be needed.
Yes. Clay-rich soils can expand and contract with changing moisture levels, which can place stress on footings and lead to cracking or misalignment. Changes around the home—like new paving, redirected stormwater, garden beds against walls, or leaking plumbing—can worsen moisture variation. We look for movement indicators and moisture drivers, then explain practical next steps to investigate and manage the risk.
Where safe and accessible, yes. The roof space can reveal framing sag, modifications, and leak staining that aren’t visible from below. The subfloor can show stump or bearer/joist problems, dampness, and ventilation issues that contribute to structural deterioration. If access is restricted or unsafe, we document the limitation and recommend alternative ways to confirm condition.
Many Kew East properties have been updated over time, and defects can occur where older structures meet newer work. Common issues include inadequate support over widened openings, changes to load paths, mismatched footing performance between the original home and the extension, and drainage alterations that increase moisture near foundations. We look for stress indicators at junctions, cracking patterns, and deflection that suggest further engineering review.
Use the findings to decide whether the risk and likely rectification costs are acceptable before you proceed. We’ll explain what’s urgent, what needs monitoring, and what requires specialist confirmation—such as a structural engineer for movement or framing concerns, a roofer for leak pathways, or a plumber for suspected water sources. This helps you plan quotes, renegotiate, or walk away with clarity.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the structural deal-breakers that can hide in Kew East’s older homes and renovated properties—call 0413 163 187 to organise an inspection and understand the real risks before you commit.