Little Italy’s older brick terraces, shared party walls and frequent renovations can hide serious movement, damp-related decay and roof framing issues that only show up under a focused structural check.
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We assess the location, pattern and width of cracks to help distinguish cosmetic plaster issues from signs of structural movement. Particular attention is given to openings (doors/windows), corners, and stair-step cracking in brickwork that can indicate footing movement or masonry stress.
Where a subfloor or under-house area exists, we check for uneven bearers/joists, signs of subsidence, moisture conditions, and deterioration that can contribute to major structural defects. In slab-on-ground areas, we look for internal indicators such as differential floor levels and related wall/ceiling separation.
We inspect accessible roof framing for sagging, spread, deflection, altered trusses/rafters, and evidence of previous repairs. We also consider load paths—whether walls and beams appear to be adequately supporting roof loads, particularly where open-plan renovations may have changed structural supports.
We look for water entry points and the structural consequences: timber decay, mould-prone dampness, and corrosion risk around fixings. This includes checking wet areas, flashings, valleys, parapets, balconies (where visible), and any staining or swelling that suggests long-term leakage impacting structural elements.
For brick and masonry structures common around Little Italy, we check for bulging walls, bowed façades, deteriorated mortar joints, and separation at junctions that can indicate instability. We also note any visible signs that may warrant further structural engineering assessment.
We identify major defect-related hazards such as unstable balustrades, compromised stair structures, loose masonry, and roof space risks. We also flag visible issues that may affect electrical or plumbing compliance where they intersect with structural penetrations or water ingress.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Cracks can be common in older brick and plaster finishes around Little Italy, but the pattern and location matter. We assess crack direction, width, whether they repeat across materials, and if they align with openings or changes in building height. Stair-step cracking in masonry, widening cracks, and doors/windows sticking can indicate movement that needs further investigation.
Yes. Cosmetic finishes can hide altered load-bearing walls, undersized beams, or changes to roof framing. In Little Italy, rear extensions and open-plan conversions are frequent, and problems can show as ceiling dips, uneven floors, cracking around new openings, or roof spread. We focus on the structural clues that indicate whether modifications may have compromised the building’s load paths.
We inspect accessible internal and external areas, roof space where it’s safe to enter, and subfloor areas where an access point exists. We also assess visible evidence of movement, moisture damage and structural distress. We don’t perform destructive testing, move heavy furniture, or open sealed cavities. If a defect suggests concealed damage, we recommend the most relevant next step.
They can. Party walls can transfer movement between adjoining properties, and repairs on one side don’t always address the cause. We look for cracking, separation at junctions, signs of moisture pathways, and changes where extensions meet older structures. If we observe indicators that may involve the adjoining property, we’ll explain the implications and what professional advice may be needed.
We’ll explain the defect severity and the likely consequences if it’s left unresolved. For high-risk findings—such as significant movement, unstable masonry, or compromised roof framing—we typically recommend a structural engineer for design advice and scope confirmation. For moisture-driven issues, we may suggest targeted leak investigation and repairs first, then reassessment to confirm the structure is stable after drying and rectification.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the structural risks common in 3053—older masonry, renovation changes, moisture damage and roof-frame concerns. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange your inspection.