Laburnum’s mix of older weatherboards and renovated brick homes can hide serious issues like subfloor moisture, movement around stumps, and roof leaks after heavy rain—our defect-focused inspection targets the faults that most affect safety and resale.
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We examine cracking in brickwork, plaster, and external cladding, then relate crack location and pattern to likely causes such as footing movement, altered load paths from renovations, or moisture-driven ground changes. This helps distinguish cosmetic cracking from signs of structural distress that may require an engineer.
Where accessible, we inspect subfloor areas for timber decay, borer damage indicators, stump condition, bearer and joist integrity, and ventilation adequacy. We also identify moisture sources such as poor drainage, leaking pipework, or damp soil against walls, because moisture is a common trigger for major defects in older Laburnum homes.
We check roof framing alignment, sagging, and signs of past or active leaks. Externally and internally, we look for failed flashings, deteriorated valley areas, displaced tiles or metal sheeting issues, and water staining. Roof defects often escalate from minor maintenance to major internal damage if not caught early.
We assess areas most prone to hidden water entry, including around windows, balcony edges (where present), wall penetrations, and wet areas. We look for swelling, mould growth, deteriorated skirtings, and staining that can indicate long-term moisture. Unchecked water ingress can undermine structural timbers and finishes.
Without performing invasive testing, we identify visible plumbing defect indicators such as active leaks, poor drainage fall signs, water damage around wet areas, and compromised pipe penetrations. We also assess how stormwater is managed around the home, as overflow and poor discharge can contribute to footing movement and subfloor damp.
We note accessible safety concerns such as damaged cabling, unsafe or improvised connections, outdated components in accessible areas, and moisture risks near electrical points. Where findings suggest non-compliance or significant risk, we recommend assessment by a qualified electrician before purchase or occupancy.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Laburnum we often see defect patterns linked to older construction and established gardens: subfloor moisture leading to timber deterioration, movement-related cracking, and roof plumbing issues that cause hidden water damage. Renovated homes can also present defects where extensions connect to the original roofline or where wet area waterproofing has failed. Your inspection focuses on the issues most likely to affect safety and major repair costs.
We assess crack width, direction, location, and whether it aligns with movement indicators like sticking doors, uneven floors, or roofline distortion. We then classify the risk and explain what the cracking likely suggests. While we don’t provide engineering certification, we clearly flag when an engineer should be engaged, and we document the evidence so you can make informed decisions before committing to the property.
Yes—where safe and accessible, we inspect both roof space and subfloor because many major defects are hidden there. If access is restricted (low clearance, stored items, sealed manholes, or unsafe conditions), we document the limitation and explain what couldn’t be confirmed. We’ll also suggest practical next steps, such as requesting access prior to settlement or arranging targeted specialist inspections for the inaccessible areas.
They can be, particularly where an extension changes roof drainage, removes walls, or adds new wet areas. We pay close attention to junctions between old and new work, roof and gutter tie-ins, flashing details, and signs of differential movement. We also look for moisture damage around bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens, as waterproofing failures can become a major defect that’s costly to rectify once finishes are installed.
If we identify a significant hazard—such as structural instability signs, severe water damage, or high-risk electrical concerns—we’ll explain it clearly on site and in the report, including why it matters and what immediate action is recommended. Where appropriate, we’ll advise engaging a specialist (engineer, electrician, plumber, or roofer) for confirmation and costing, so you can decide whether to renegotiate or walk away.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the defects that drive big repair bills in Laburnum homes—call 0413 163 187 to organise your inspection and get clear, practical findings before you sign.