Newmarket’s mix of older weatherboards, terraces and renovated homes often hides “small” problems like moisture at the base of walls, ageing roof flashings and uneven floors that can snowball if they’re missed early.
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We look for early indicators of damp issues such as staining, blistering paint, swelling skirtings and salt-like residue on masonry. These “minor” signs can point to poor drainage, bridging to the damp-proof course, or leaking plumbing before visible mould or major plaster damage appears.
We check gutter falls, joins, rust points, overflow provisions and downpipe connections where accessible. Small defects here often cause recurring wetting of eaves and external walls, leading to timber deterioration, ceiling stains and foundation moisture problems.
We assess visible roof penetrations and junctions (such as around skylights, vent pipes and apron flashings) for lifting edges, failed sealant and gaps. Minor flashing defects are a common source of slow leaks that don’t show up until insulation is saturated or plaster begins to stain.
We note crack location, width and direction in plaster, masonry and around openings. Hairline cracks can be cosmetic, but repeated cracking near additions, chimneys or bay windows may indicate movement, inadequate control joints or moisture-related soil changes that need monitoring.
Where access allows, we check subfloor vents, clearance to the ground, and signs of damp timbers. Minor defects like blocked vents, soil build-up or stored items under floors can elevate moisture, increasing the likelihood of timber decay and termite risk over time.
We inspect visible sealing and water control around showers, baths, laundry areas and external paving levels. Small failures—like cracked grout, missing silicone, or paving that falls toward the house—can drive water into wall cavities and floors long before a major leak is obvious.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Newmarket, we often see early moisture issues at the base of walls, tired gutters and downpipes that overflow, and small roof flashing gaps—especially where extensions meet older roofs. Hairline cracking around windows and doors is also common, particularly where renovated areas connect to original sections. These issues can look cosmetic but may signal water entry or movement if ignored.
Yes. Renovations can look neat while hiding small defects at junctions: roof tie-ins, wet area sealing, drainage changes, and patched flooring transitions. A Minor Property Defects inspection helps identify workmanship issues that may not fail immediately but can create ongoing leaks, swelling floors, or repeated cracking. It’s also useful for creating a targeted maintenance list after settlement.
Yes. We separate cosmetic items (such as superficial paint marks or minor surface imperfections) from defects that can escalate, like moisture staining, active leaks, deteriorated flashings, or drainage problems directing water toward the building. The report explains why each item matters, what the likely cause is, and what to do next so you can prioritise spending and timing.
Limited access can mean gutters, downpipes, overflow points and subfloor vents aren’t maintained regularly, and problems go unnoticed longer. We pay close attention to accessible roof water discharge points, visible stormwater connections, and ground levels near external walls. Even small overflow events can repeatedly wet the same areas, leading to damp patches, timber wear and cracking over time.
After the inspection, you’ll receive a clear defect list with photos and locations so you can brief trades accurately. Many clients use the report to obtain quotes for targeted repairs like gutter replacements, flashing adjustments, sealing upgrades or drainage improvements. If you want, we can also talk you through which items to address first to prevent the most common escalation pathways.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the small issues Newmarket properties often hide—moisture entry points, roof water management and renovation junction defects. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange your inspection.