Mooroolbark homes on sloping blocks and reactive soils can hide movement, drainage issues and unsafe alterations—especially in older weatherboards and renovated brick veneer properties.
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We inspect for signs of footing movement such as stepped cracking in masonry, racking to door frames, out-of-level floors, and separation at skirtings and cornices. In Mooroolbark, changes in site drainage and soil reactivity can exaggerate movement, so we note crack characteristics and where they suggest ongoing structural stress.
We check roof framing where accessible, plus coverings, flashings, valleys, penetrations and guttering condition. Major defects often start with small leaks that go unnoticed until timbers or ceiling linings are compromised. We focus on the common failure points that lead to persistent moisture ingress and structural deterioration.
We assess external and internal walls for bulging, significant cracking, movement at brickwork control joints, and distress around windows and doors. We also look at lintel performance and corrosion indicators where applicable, because lintel failure can cause progressive cracking and unsafe load transfer.
Where access allows, we inspect subfloor ventilation, dampness, bearer and joist condition, and evidence of rot or structural timber weakening. Moist subfloor environments can lead to sagging floors, musty odours, and ongoing repair cycles if the underlying moisture source isn’t addressed.
We look for tell-tale signs of waterproofing failure, leaking showers, swollen architraves, deteriorated seals, and moisture damage around wet walls and floors. Major defects in wet areas are expensive because repairs often require removing tiles, wall linings or cabinetry, not just resealing.
While not a full compliance certification, we identify visible risk indicators such as unsafe DIY modifications, damaged fittings, poor termination points, overflow/relief discharge issues and water service concerns that can create safety hazards or costly rectification. We then recommend the appropriate licensed specialist checks where needed.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Some minor cracking and seasonal movement can occur, particularly on blocks with changing drainage or reactive soils. It becomes a major concern when cracks are wider, stepped through brickwork, reappear after repairs, or are paired with racking (sticking doors/windows, sloping floors, gaps opening at corners). We assess the pattern, location and severity to indicate whether it suggests structural movement that needs further investigation.
Maintenance issues are typically minor wear-and-tear items that don’t compromise the building’s structural performance or safety, such as small sealant gaps, minor paint failure or isolated tile cracks. Major defects relate to structural integrity, persistent moisture entry, significant deterioration, or safety hazards—like active movement, roof leaks affecting framing, failing waterproofing causing rot, or unsafe alterations. Our inspection focuses on identifying and prioritising these higher-risk defects.
Yes. We pay close attention to altered areas because major defects often arise from poor connections, undersized supports, inadequate bracing, or missing weatherproofing details at junctions. We look for differential movement between the original home and the addition, signs of inadequate drainage around new works, and defect indicators such as bouncing floors, cracking at joins, and moisture entry where roofs and walls meet.
They can. Homes with retaining walls, cut-and-fill blocks, or properties near drainage lines may be more susceptible to water management problems and ground movement. Retaining wall distress, poor subsoil drainage, and redirected stormwater can lead to footing stress and damp conditions. During a major defects inspection, we look for movement indicators, water-flow paths, and signs that retaining or drainage elements are affecting the building.
We document what we can observe, explain why it matters, and outline practical next steps. For example, if cracking suggests possible footing movement, we may recommend an engineer’s assessment. If we see signs of roof leaks or wet area failure, we’ll advise targeted investigations by a qualified roofer, plumber or waterproofer. This approach helps you move forward with clear priorities and defensible decisions.
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Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the structural, moisture and safety defects that cost Mooroolbark buyers the most. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange an inspection and get clear next steps before you commit.