Northcote homes often mix older weatherboard and brick builds with newer renovations—our building inspection checks for movement, damp-related damage, and renovation defects that can hide behind fresh finishes.
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Our comprehensive service includes everything you need to make an informed decision about your property.
We inspect accessible subfloors and floor framing for signs of movement, rot, inadequate ventilation, and compromised bearers/joists. This matters in Northcote where older raised floors and incremental renovations can lead to uneven flooring, cracking, and costly rectification if structural supports have deteriorated or shifted.
We check internal and external walls for cracking patterns, bowing, separation, and patch repairs that may indicate ongoing movement. We note likely contributors such as drainage, ground moisture, or structural alterations, helping you separate cosmetic cracking from issues that may need engineering advice.
We examine the roof exterior (where visible), gutters, downpipes, and flashings, then assess the roof space for leaks, water staining, timber condition, and structural adequacy. Roof defects can trigger ceiling damage and mould, so identifying early water entry points is critical before settlement.
We look for signs of water ingress around bathrooms, laundries, and kitchens, and assess external drainage clues such as ponding, falls away from the building, and downpipe discharge points. Poor moisture control can drive timber decay, swelling, and recurring repairs, especially where renovations were completed without robust waterproofing.
While we don’t perform a full electrical or plumbing certification, we identify visible red flags: damaged wiring, unsafe fittings, water pressure concerns, active leaks, and poor pipe supports. We also highlight where specialist trades should be engaged, so you can quantify risk and cost prior to purchase.
We assess workmanship indicators in extensions and updated interiors—such as uneven finishes, unsupported openings, inadequate ventilation, stair and balustrade safety, and DIY-style alterations. In Northcote’s renovation-heavy market, this helps uncover defects that can be masked by new paint, cabinetry, or flooring.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Northcote we regularly see age-related movement showing as cracking, uneven floors in older raised homes, and moisture problems from drainage or older wet-area detailing. Renovations can also introduce defects where old and new sections join, including roof and flashing issues. A building inspection documents these findings, explains likely causes, and flags where specialist advice (such as a structural engineer) may be sensible.
Yes, we inspect the roof space and subfloor where safe and accessible. These areas often reveal issues that aren’t visible from living areas, including leaks, water staining, timber decay, inadequate supports, and ventilation problems. If access is restricted (for example, low clearance or blocked manholes), we’ll note the limitation in the report and recommend next steps.
A building inspection can identify visible workmanship issues and risks—such as uneven surfaces, signs of movement, moisture entry, poor ventilation, and safety hazards. We can’t confirm every aspect of building approval or concealed work, but we can highlight inconsistencies and red flags that warrant further checks. This is especially valuable when renovations look new but details suggest shortcuts.
We assess site drainage indicators and look for signs consistent with movement, such as cracking patterns, separation, and paving displacement. Established streets with mature trees can contribute to ground moisture changes and movement, particularly if drainage is poor. While we don’t perform soil testing, the inspection helps you understand whether the building shows symptoms that justify further investigation.
Timing depends on the size and complexity of the property, but most inspections are completed within a typical appointment window and followed by a detailed report. For Northcote purchases, it’s best to book as soon as you have a contract or a serious intent to offer, so you have time to review findings, ask questions, and negotiate based on documented defects before deadlines.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections will assess structural integrity, moisture risks, and renovation red flags common in Northcote homes—call 0413 163 187 to organise your inspection.