North Melbourne’s terraces, converted warehouses and older walk-ups can hide movement, roof leaks and compliance gaps behind renovations—an inspection helps you buy with clear facts, not assumptions.
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Our comprehensive service includes everything you need to make an informed decision about your property.
We check for signs of subsidence and structural movement, including step-cracking in brickwork, uneven floors, stump deterioration and gaps around skirtings/architraves. In North Melbourne’s older housing stock, movement can be hidden by recent replastering or new flooring, so we look for consistent indicators across multiple rooms and external walls.
We inspect roof coverings, ridge capping, flashings, penetrations and drainage points to identify leak paths. Older terraces and extensions can rely on box gutters and parapets that fail when falls are poor or outlets block, so we look for staining, rusting, ponding indicators and ceiling moisture that can signal recurring roof-water issues.
We examine masonry, render, cladding and visible boundary/party-wall areas for cracking, bulging, salt damp and patch repairs. Where properties sit tight to neighbouring buildings, defects can be harder to access—so we document visible limitations and flag risks that may need further investigation before settlement.
Bathrooms, laundries and kitchens are checked for leaks, poor falls, swelling to trims, mould, deteriorated grout/silicone and water damage to adjacent rooms. We also assess external paving and courtyard levels, as poor drainage near walls can drive moisture into older structures and cause ongoing internal damage.
For houses with underfloor access, we assess ventilation, dampness, timber condition, ant capping visibility, plumbing leaks and signs of rot. Subfloor moisture can contribute to musty odours, bouncy floors and long-term timber decay, which is particularly relevant in older North Melbourne homes with limited underfloor airflow.
We identify visible safety risks such as unstable balustrades, trip hazards, deteriorated stairs, and roof space issues like sagging members or damaged insulation. We also note visible plumbing and electrical red flags that may indicate non-compliant or aging work, recommending licensed trades for compliance confirmation where required.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In North Melbourne, older terraces and cottages often show cracking from movement, dampness around external walls, and roof drainage problems—especially where box gutters, parapets or older flashings are present. We also regularly see subfloor ventilation issues that contribute to timber decay. An inspection documents the defect patterns and helps you separate cosmetic repairs from issues likely to need structural or moisture management work.
Yes. We inspect the accessible areas of the apartment and any associated balconies, courtyards and storage where applicable, and we assess internal walls, ceilings, wet areas and safety hazards. For conversions, we pay close attention to signs of altered structure, water entry, and ventilation issues. Common property elements and strata records aren’t part of a standard inspection, but we can advise what to review.
A building inspection includes visual observations for red flags, such as unsafe wiring indications, damaged fittings, water leaks, poor drainage falls and moisture impacts. Full compliance testing requires a licensed electrician or plumber with the right instruments and certifications. If we see indicators of non-compliant or ageing work, we’ll note it clearly and recommend the right follow-up checks before you commit to the purchase.
Rear extensions can conceal drainage and waterproofing issues, particularly where new floors meet older walls or where courtyards sit close to internal living spaces. We look for differential movement at junctions, roof tie-in problems, poor flashing details and moisture staining. We also check for ventilation and condensation risks where layouts have changed, as sealed-up older sections can trap moisture and accelerate deterioration.
Time on-site depends on the property size, access and complexity, but most inspections allow enough time to check the exterior, interior and accessible roof space/subfloor areas safely. You’ll receive a detailed report outlining major defects, safety hazards and maintenance concerns, plus photos and clear recommendations. If access is limited (common in tight North Melbourne blocks), we document what couldn’t be inspected.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchCall ACE Building and Pest Inspections on 0413 163 187 for a detailed Building Inspection in North Melbourne that focuses on structure, moisture risks and safety hazards common in older and renovated inner-city properties.