Mitcham homes range from mid-century brick veneer to renovated weatherboards and newer townhouses—each can hide serious defects like slab movement, roof framing issues and poor renovation work that only shows up under a targeted defects inspection.
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We check for signs of significant movement such as stepped brick cracking, distorted openings, uneven floors and separation at junctions. This matters because movement can indicate footing failure, reactive ground behaviour, drainage issues or tree influence, all of which can become major, structural repairs if ignored.
We inspect accessible roof spaces for sagging rafters/trusses, compromised bracing, water staining, and poor repairs, plus visible roof cladding, flashings and guttering. Roof defects often drive widespread damage—rot, mould, ceiling collapse risk—and can be costly once timbers and insulation are affected.
We look for cracking patterns, bulging walls, inadequate support over openings, and evidence of removed or altered load-bearing walls from past renovations. In Mitcham, open-plan changes are common, and poor structural modifications can create long-term distortion and safety concerns.
We assess bathrooms, laundries and balconies for swelling, drummy tiles, grout failure, leaks at penetrations and moisture-related deterioration. Wet area defects can cause hidden timber decay and termite risk, and often require strip-out remediation rather than patch repairs.
Where accessible, we check subfloor ventilation, moisture conditions, stumps/bearers/joists condition and signs of fungal decay. Poor airflow and persistent damp can undermine structural timbers and can be linked to drainage or ground levels around the home.
We identify visible safety hazards such as damaged wiring, unsafe DIY alterations, inadequate wet-area protection, leaking pipework and poor penetrations that allow water entry. While we don’t certify all compliance onsite, these findings flag where specialist testing or urgent rectification is needed to reduce risk.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Mitcham 3132 we often see defects tied to age and renovations: significant cracking from movement, roof leaks leading to timber deterioration, damp subfloors with decayed bearers/joists, and wet-area waterproofing failures after bathroom upgrades. Open-plan alterations can also reveal inadequate support or bracing. The inspection focuses on defects that affect structural integrity, safety and long-term repair costs.
A major defects inspection prioritises issues that threaten the building’s structure and safety, not just general maintenance. We focus on movement, load-bearing changes, severe water ingress, compromised roofing structure, and high-risk hazards. You’ll still receive clear explanations and photos, but the report is geared toward identifying significant defect drivers and recommending practical next steps, including specialist referrals where needed.
Yes. For townhouses and units, we inspect the accessible areas within the lot and note concerns that may relate to shared elements where visible (such as roof drainage or external cracking patterns). If a potential defect appears to involve common property, we’ll explain what it likely means and what to request from the owners corporation or builder, so you can verify responsibilities and future costs.
They can. Many streets in Mitcham have mature trees and established gardens, and tree influence combined with poor stormwater management can affect moisture levels around footings. That can contribute to movement, especially where drainage falls toward the house or downpipes discharge near the base. We look for indicators such as cracking patterns, site drainage clues and moisture conditions to help identify likely causes.
We’ll explain the defect, why it matters, and the next best step. For structural concerns, that’s often a structural engineer for design and scope confirmation. For water entry, it may be a roofer, plumber or waterproofer to isolate the source and quote rectification. If you’re buying, you can use the findings to renegotiate, seek contract advice, or decide whether to proceed.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on serious structural and safety issues common in Mitcham homes—call 0413 163 187 to organise an inspection and get clear next steps before you commit.