Kingsville’s mix of older weatherboards, brick homes and heavily renovated properties can hide serious issues behind new linings—subsidence signs, roof framing changes and moisture damage that affects safety and resale.
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We check for signs of footing movement and settlement, including floor level changes, stump/bearer issues where visible, cracking patterns, and separation at junctions. In Kingsville’s older housing stock, movement can be historic or active; we focus on indicators that suggest ongoing structural change and potential restumping or underpinning needs.
We assess internal and external walls for structural cracking, bowing, brickwork separation, and lintel distress around doors and windows. These areas often show the earliest warning signs of major defects, especially where renovations have altered openings or where moisture has affected masonry and timber framing.
We inspect roof coverings, flashings, valleys, guttering and downpipe discharge where accessible, then confirm the roof structure in the roof space for cut trusses, sagging members, inadequate bracing, or moisture staining. Roof defects are a major driver of hidden damage to ceilings, insulation and framing.
We focus on bathrooms, laundries and kitchens for leakage indicators, swelling, mould-like growth, damaged skirtings, and poor ventilation. Wet area failures can cause major defects in adjacent floors and walls, and are especially important in Kingsville homes with updated bathrooms where waterproofing quality varies widely.
We identify accessible safety hazards such as exposed wiring, unsafe switchboard indicators, DIY alterations, and heat or scorch marks at fittings (where visible). While a full electrical test is outside a building inspection, flagging high-risk signs early helps you engage a qualified electrician before settlement.
We look for visible plumbing defects such as active leaks, water pressure issues evident at fixtures, poor overflow/discharge arrangements, and moisture around pipe penetrations. We also note site drainage concerns that can contribute to ongoing dampness and foundation movement, particularly where downpipes discharge close to the house.
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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 Kingsville, major defects often relate to movement in older dwellings (cracking, sloping floors, separation around openings), roof leaks causing ceiling and framing damage, and moisture problems in wet areas after renovations. We also see issues at extension junctions where old and new structures meet. The inspection focuses on defects that can affect safety, structural performance and costly repair outcomes.
Yes, where safe access is available. Many Kingsville homes have tight roof spaces and restricted subfloor entries, so access can vary. We’ll inspect accessible areas to look for structural concerns such as altered framing, moisture staining, inadequate ventilation, stump and bearer condition, and signs of timber decay. If access is limited, we’ll note this and explain the risk and next steps.
A major defects inspection is targeted to identify serious structural issues and safety hazards that could significantly affect the property’s value and liveability. It overlaps with a standard building inspection in many areas, but the emphasis is on defects that are major, urgent, or likely to become expensive quickly. If you also want termite and timber pest assessment, ask about adding a pest inspection.
Fresh plaster, new tiles and painted surfaces can conceal movement cracks, past water damage, and patch repairs around windows and door openings. Renovated bathrooms and laundries can also hide waterproofing failures that show up later as swollen skirting, damp odours, or damage to adjoining rooms. We look for tell-tale indicators around junctions, wet areas, roof drainage points and structural openings.
Start by using the report to prioritise defects that affect safety or structural stability. For major movement, roof structure issues, or significant cracking, we’ll often recommend a structural engineer or a specialist trade to provide a repair scope and cost estimate. This puts you in a stronger position to negotiate, adjust contract conditions, or decide whether the property is still the right fit.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the defects that can derail a Kingsville purchase—movement, roof and moisture damage, and visible safety risks. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange an inspection.