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Murrumbeena has a mix of older brick and weatherboard homes, unit blocks and renovated townhouses—where movement cracks, drainage issues and altered load-bearing walls can hide serious structural problems.
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We check walls, ceilings, cornices, brickwork and render for crack patterns, step cracking, widening gaps and distortion. This matters in Murrumbeena where movement can show up around openings and corners and may indicate footing issues rather than simple plaster shrinkage.
Where accessible, we inspect subfloor supports, bearers, joists, stumps and ant caps for signs of rotation, sagging, moisture damage and inadequate support. In older Murrumbeena homes, past re-stumping or partial repairs can leave uneven load paths that cause ongoing settlement.
We visually assess roof framing for sagging ridgelines, cut or removed members, inadequate bracing, and signs of long-term moisture entry. Structural roof defects can be costly and may also point to hidden water penetration affecting ceilings and wall framing.
We look for indicators of removed or modified load-bearing walls, undersized lintels/RSJs, unapproved openings, and cracking aligned with recent layout changes. This is particularly relevant in Murrumbeena renovations where open-plan conversions can be done without adequate structural support.
We check for evidence of persistent moisture around wet areas, external walls, balconies/verandahs and downpipe discharge points, and note how this may be affecting timber framing, floors and masonry. Chronic moisture can lead to decay, swelling, and progressive structural movement.
We identify observable hazards such as unstable masonry, significant floor slope, loose roof elements and compromised supports, and record where urgent attention is warranted. While this is a visual inspection, we also flag where electrical or plumbing issues may be contributing to moisture or structural deterioration.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Murrumbeena we often see defect patterns related to movement and moisture: cracking around openings, sloping or springy floors in older homes with subfloors, and roof framing issues where leaks have been present for a long time. Renovations can add another layer, such as altered load-bearing walls or undersized lintels. We assess severity and recommend whether engineering advice is needed.
We look at crack location, direction, width, whether it is stepped through brickwork, and whether it aligns with doors/windows sticking, floor slope or roof distortion. Hairline plaster cracks can be minor, but wide, progressive or stepped masonry cracks can indicate movement in footings or changes in load paths. Our inspection documents patterns and likely causes, then outlines appropriate next steps.
Yes, where safe and accessible. Roof spaces help us assess framing integrity, bracing, and signs of long-term leaks. Subfloors reveal the condition of stumps, bearers, joists and ventilation, which directly affect floor levels and stability. If access is restricted (low clearance, stored items, or safety hazards), we note the limitation and advise how to obtain further access or specialist input.
They can be, particularly where walls have been removed, spans increased, or additional storeys and extensions added. In Murrumbeena, many properties have undergone open-plan renovations, and the risk is that structural supports may be undersized or not properly integrated. Townhouse builds can also show early movement if drainage is poor or slabs are affected by moisture changes. We focus on visible indicators of compromised load-bearing elements and movement.
This service is a visual structural inspection, so it does not replace compliance testing by licensed plumbers or electricians. However, we do look for visible signs that plumbing or drainage issues are contributing to structural damage (such as persistent moisture, rotted timbers, or damp masonry). If we see indicators of non-compliant or risky work affecting the structure, we’ll flag it and recommend the right specialist checks.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the structural elements that can make or break a Murrumbeena purchase—call 0485 857 077 to organise a visual inspection and clear next steps.