Kinley homes often include older builds with later renovations and additions; defect risks can hide where new work meets original structures, around drainage, and in roof spaces after heavy rain and windy weather common across the Ringwood area.
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We check for crack patterns in brickwork, plaster, and around openings, plus signs of racking or distortion. This helps identify whether movement may be active, linked to footing performance, drainage issues, or structural alterations, and whether it warrants an engineer’s review.
We inspect accessible subfloor areas for deteriorated stumps, sagging bearers/joists, inadequate ventilation, moisture conditions, and unsafe ad-hoc supports. These defects can lead to uneven floors, door misalignment, and ongoing structural stress.
We assess accessible roof spaces for framing condition, signs of leaks, staining, mould-like growth, and daylight penetration. Externally, we look for issues around tiles/metal sheeting, flashings, valleys, and penetrations that commonly cause hidden water damage.
We look for grading and drainage indicators that can push water toward the house, along with overflow risks from gutters and downpipes. We also check wet areas for tell-tale signs of failed waterproofing that can damage subfloors, wall framing, and adjacent rooms.
We identify visible safety concerns such as exposed wiring, unsafe DIY modifications, damaged outlets, and plumbing issues that suggest leaks or poor installation. While a building inspection isn’t a full compliance test, these findings flag where licensed trades should investigate further.
We focus on the join between original and newer works—changes in floor levels, mismatched rooflines, cracking at junctions, and altered load paths. These are common locations for major defects if structural supports, flashing, or drainage weren’t properly designed or executed.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Kinley, major defects often relate to structural movement (cracking, uneven floors, sticking doors), water ingress from roofing or failed flashings, and moisture issues tied to drainage. We also regularly see problems at renovation junctions—where extensions meet the original home—such as poor tie-ins, inadequate support, or leaking details. The inspection focuses on the defects most likely to be expensive or unsafe if left unattended.
We assess crack location, width, direction, and whether there are related signs such as level changes, gaps at cornices, or misaligned openings. This helps us distinguish between typical settlement and patterns that can indicate ongoing movement or structural stress. While we don’t provide engineering certification, we can clearly flag when an engineer’s advice is recommended and why.
Yes, where safe and accessible. The roof space is critical for spotting leaks, framing problems, and hidden moisture damage. Underfloor access (if available) helps identify stump, bearer and joist issues, ventilation problems, and plumbing leaks. If access is restricted, we document the limitation and explain what risks may remain and what further access or specialist checks may be worthwhile.
They can be. In Kinley, many properties have been updated over time, and defects commonly appear where old and new construction meet. We look for changes in floor levels, cracking at junctions, roof tie-in issues, drainage changes, and signs that loads may have been altered without adequate support. These findings help you decide whether to seek building permits documentation or arrange targeted specialist inspections.
We document the defect, explain the likely cause and consequences, and outline practical next steps. That may include getting quotes from licensed trades, requesting further investigation (such as an engineer for structural movement), or revisiting the contract terms before you proceed. We’ll also help you prioritise what needs urgent attention versus what can be monitored, so you can make a clear decision.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchChoose ACE Building and Pest Inspections for a defect-focused assessment that targets the structural, water-ingress, and safety issues most likely to cost you in Kinley. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange an inspection.