Maribyrnong homes range from older brick builds to newer townhouses and riverside apartments, where movement, water entry and past renovations can hide serious defects until they become expensive or unsafe.
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We assess cracking patterns in brickwork, plaster and external walls, and check for signs of ongoing movement such as stepped cracks, misaligned openings, and uneven floors. This helps distinguish cosmetic shrinkage from defects that may indicate footing or structural issues.
Where accessible, we inspect subfloor areas, stumps/bearers or slab edges, and look for dampness, poor ventilation, drainage defects and moisture pathways. Persistent moisture can drive major defects like timber decay, mould, and movement-related damage.
We check roof framing condition (where visible), sagging, damaged tiles or sheets, flashing details, valleys, gutters and downpipes. Roof defects are a common source of hidden internal damage, especially when leaks run behind walls before staining appears.
We inspect high-risk areas such as balconies, window head flashings, junctions between old and new sections, and penetrations through walls and roofs. These details often fail first and can cause major defects including rot, corrosion and internal wall deterioration.
We identify visible hazards that may require urgent attention, including loose or unsafe balustrades, deteriorated stair components, and evidence of unprofessional structural changes. We also flag indicators of potentially non-compliant electrical or plumbing work that should be verified by qualified trades.
You receive a clear breakdown of major versus minor defects, what is urgent, and what can be planned. We outline likely causes, typical repair approaches, and where to seek specialist input so you can budget and negotiate with confidence.
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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 Maribyrnong we often see major defects linked to water entry and building movement. That can include roof leaks from failing flashing, blocked gutters or poor detailing, and cracking that suggests footing or structural movement rather than simple plaster shrinkage. Renovations and extensions can also introduce issues such as removed load-bearing elements, poorly supported openings, or waterproofing failures around wet areas and balconies.
We look at crack location, width, direction and pattern, and whether there are related symptoms such as sticking doors, uneven floors, or separation at junctions. Stepped cracking in masonry and cracks radiating from corners of openings can indicate movement, while fine, uniform hairline cracks are often cosmetic. We also consider nearby moisture and drainage conditions because persistent dampness can drive movement and deterioration.
Yes. Newer builds can still have major defects, particularly around waterproofing, roof drainage, balcony falls, window sealing, and poor detailing where different materials meet. We inspect accessible areas for signs of water entry, movement, incomplete finishes that hide defects, and drainage problems that can damage the structure over time. For apartments, we also note what may be common property versus lot responsibility.
They can be, especially where multiple renovations have been done over decades. Fresh finishes may cover cracking, patched ceilings can conceal roof leaks, and structural changes such as widened openings or removed walls can be difficult to judge without careful inspection. We look for tell-tale signs like uneven floors, altered roof framing, irregular lintels, mismatched brickwork, and junction cracking where old and new sections meet.
We explain the defect clearly on site, outline why it matters, and rate the severity so you can prioritise action. Where appropriate, we recommend the next step, such as an engineer for structural movement, a roofer for leak confirmation, or a licensed electrician/plumber for compliance checks. The goal is to help you make an informed decision and obtain accurate repair advice and quotes.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the defects that impact safety and value in Maribyrnong properties—call 0413 163 187 to organise an inspection and get clear, practical next steps.