Mitcham homes often mix older brick veneer builds with modern extensions on reactive soils and sloping blocks—exactly where hidden movement, roof framing issues, and renovation shortcuts can become major structural defects.
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We assess wall and ceiling cracking, cornice separation, and stepped brickwork cracking to differentiate cosmetic issues from movement patterns that may indicate footing or framing problems. We also check for door and window racking, which can signal structural distortion.
Where accessible, we inspect slab edges, stump condition, ant caps, bearers and joists, and look for signs of settlement, rotation, or inadequate support. These defects can lead to uneven floors, compromised load paths, and expensive rectification if ignored.
We inspect accessible roof spaces for truss alterations, cut web members, sagging rafters, spread, inadequate bracing, and water staining that can weaken structural timber. Roof defects can become safety hazards and often worsen after heavy rain or storms.
We look for indicators of removed or modified load-bearing walls, undersized lintels, ad-hoc posts, and poorly executed openings. In Mitcham, extensions and open-plan conversions are common, so we focus on how loads are transferred to supports and footings.
We check for leaks and damp conditions that can cause timber rot, corrosion, and loss of bearing, including around wet areas, balconies, and plumbing penetrations. Moisture issues can turn a minor maintenance problem into a major structural defect.
We assess brickwork, veneer ties indicators, and retaining wall stability for bulging, leaning, or drainage failure. Sloping blocks and split-level sites can place extra stress on retaining elements and boundary structures.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Mitcham, we often see movement-related cracking, uneven floors from compromised stumps or subfloor supports, and defects linked to renovations such as altered load-bearing walls or undersized lintels. Roof space issues can also appear where framing has been modified or where long-term leaks have weakened timber. The inspection focuses on defect patterns, likely causes, and whether the issue is minor, significant, or a major structural concern.
Yes. If a load-bearing wall is removed or an opening is widened without adequate support, loads can be redirected in ways the original structure wasn’t designed to handle. This can lead to sagging ceilings, cracking around openings, and doors or windows going out of square. We look for visible signs of altered framing, non-compliant supports, and stress indicators that suggest the structure is not performing as intended.
We inspect all accessible areas and note any access restrictions that prevent a complete view of the footings or subfloor structure. Where access is limited, we rely on external and internal indicators such as cracking patterns, floor levels, and moisture signs to assess risk. If the signs suggest a major issue, we recommend the most practical next step, such as improved access, targeted invasive checks, or engineering assessment.
They can be. Soil movement is influenced by moisture changes, and properties with poor site drainage, ageing stormwater systems, or inconsistent ground moisture around the perimeter can experience differential movement. In Mitcham, mature landscaping and altered ground levels from renovations can also affect how water moves around the home. We look for defect patterns and contributing factors so you can address causes, not just symptoms.
We identify visible plumbing and electrical issues that could contribute to structural damage or safety hazards, such as leaks causing timber decay, moisture entry points, or unsafe modifications that increase risk. A full compliance certification is typically outside a visual structural inspection, so we recommend licensed trades for definitive compliance checks. We’ll clearly flag any observed concerns that warrant specialist follow-up.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the structural failure points that matter in Mitcham homes—movement, roof framing, subfloor support, and renovation-related defects. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange an inspection.