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Mulgrave has plenty of brick veneer family homes and newer townhouse builds where soil movement, drainage issues and rushed renovations can hide serious defects in slabs, frames and roofs.
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We check for signs of footing or slab movement such as stepped cracking in brickwork, separation around window/door frames, uneven floors, and distortion to skirting and cornices. In Mulgrave, these indicators can point to moisture-driven ground movement or drainage faults that may require engineering advice and costly rectification.
We look for structural wall cracking, bowed walls, racking, and evidence of altered or removed load-bearing elements—especially where open-plan renovations have been done. This helps identify whether walls and frames are performing correctly or whether the structure has been compromised.
We inspect accessible roof spaces and roof elements for sagging rafters, damaged trusses, inadequate bracing, corrosion, and signs of water entry. Leaks can quickly become major defects by rotting timbers and weakening ceilings, so we focus on valleys, flashings, penetrations and guttering interfaces.
Bathrooms, laundries and balconies are common sources of hidden damage. We look for moisture staining, swelling, cracked tiles or grout lines, movement at junctions, and signs of ongoing leaks that can rot framing and cause structural damage behind walls and under floors.
We assess how water is managed around the home by checking downpipe connections, surface falls, ponding areas, and evidence of rising damp or persistent dampness. Poor drainage can drive both structural movement and timber decay, turning a maintenance issue into a major defect.
While a full compliance test is performed by licensed electricians/plumbers, we identify visible warning signs such as unsafe wiring practices, damaged switchgear, DIY modifications, leaking pipework, and inadequate stormwater discharge. These issues can create fire risk, water damage and expensive rework after settlement.
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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 Mulgrave we often see major defects linked to building movement (cracking and sticking doors), water management problems (poor drainage, downpipes not discharging correctly), and roof leaks that lead to timber decay. Older homes with later renovations can also hide structural alterations or failed waterproofing in bathrooms. Our inspection focuses on the defects that affect safety, structural performance and repair cost.
We assess the crack pattern, location and associated symptoms. Stepped cracks through brickwork, widening cracks, cracking near openings, and cracks paired with uneven floors or misaligned doors can indicate movement affecting the structure. Fine shrinkage cracks in plaster can be cosmetic. We explain what we observed, why it matters, and whether you should engage a structural engineer for confirmation.
We check visible plumbing and electrical red flags that commonly relate to safety hazards or property damage, such as leaks, water staining, deteriorated fittings, or unsafe-looking wiring and modifications. Formal compliance testing and certification must be completed by licensed electricians and plumbers. If we see indicators of risk, we’ll recommend the appropriate trade follow-up before you commit.
Newer builds can still have major defects, particularly where water is not managed well or workmanship is poor. We often focus on balcony and bathroom waterproofing, roof drainage details, movement at junctions, and any signs of rushed finishes that may be masking moisture issues. Even where a home looks new, hidden defects can cause significant damage once warranties expire.
If we identify a major defect, we’ll explain the likely cause, the risk level, and the practical next step. That may include seeking a structural engineer’s opinion, getting quotes from qualified builders, or requesting additional trade inspections (roof plumber, electrician, plumber). For buyers, we can help you use the findings to negotiate or decide whether the risk and repair cost stack up.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the defects that can derail a Mulgrave purchase—structural movement, water entry and safety hazards. Call 0485 857 077 to organise your inspection.