Northcote’s mix of older weatherboards, renovated period homes and rear extensions can hide serious issues like movement, moisture damage and unsafe alterations—especially where past works weren’t properly integrated with the original structure.
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We check for cracking patterns, differential movement indicators, and distortion in walls, ceilings and openings to help distinguish cosmetic cracking from signs of more serious structural movement that can affect stability and repair scope.
We assess accessible subfloor areas for dampness, timber deterioration, inadequate ventilation, and support issues such as sagging bearers, compromised stumps, or poor past repairs—common contributors to uneven floors and ongoing movement.
We look for evidence of roof leaks, damaged coverings, blocked drainage points, and defects around penetrations and junctions. Water entry can drive major damage over time, including ceiling collapse risks, framing deterioration and mould-related hazards.
Where layouts have been changed, we look for indicators that walls may have been removed or modified without appropriate structural support, including undersized beams, inadequate posts, and cracking or deflection around openings.
We inspect accessible external wall areas for bulging, separation, deteriorated cladding, failed sealants, and moisture pathways at windows, doors and balcony interfaces—defects that can lead to hidden rot, corrosion and long-term instability.
We visually identify obvious electrical and plumbing hazards where accessible, such as damaged cabling, unsafe switchboard indicators, poor pipework condition, or water damage near services. We also note conditions that warrant licensed electrician or plumber follow-up.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Northcote, we often see defect patterns linked to older construction and layered renovations: cracking from movement, subfloor dampness affecting timber supports, roof leaks that have run for years, and moisture entry at older windows and junctions where additions meet original walls. We also look for signs that internal walls were altered without adequate structural support, which can create long-term stability and safety issues.
We assess visible indicators that an extension may be impacting the original building, such as separation cracks at the join, uneven floors, roof junction defects, and changes in wall alignment. We also look for signs of inadequate support where openings were created between old and new areas. If we see higher-risk indicators, we’ll recommend targeted follow-up with a structural engineer or relevant specialist.
Yes. We inspect for signs of footing or support issues through observable movement indicators—cracking types and locations, sloping floors, sticking doors/windows, and distortion in structural elements. While we don’t excavate or perform engineering calculations, our inspection helps identify whether movement may be active and significant. Where needed, we’ll outline practical next steps for further investigation and risk confirmation.
With weatherboards, we pay close attention to subfloor moisture and ventilation, timber condition, and support integrity because these can drive sagging floors and movement. Externally, we look for cladding deterioration, failed flashings and sealants, and water entry around windows and roof junctions. Renovations can add risk, so we also check for signs of altered load paths and compromised framing where accessible.
We carry out visual checks for obvious hazards and defect indicators in accessible areas, such as water damage near services, unsafe-looking cabling, and switchboard warning signs. However, formal compliance testing and certification must be done by licensed electricians and plumbers. If we find concerning indicators, we’ll document them clearly and recommend the appropriate specialist checks before settlement or before any renovation work proceeds.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchChoose ACE Building and Pest Inspections for a defect-focused assessment that targets structural integrity, water ingress and safety hazards common in Northcote homes. Call 0413 163 187 to organise an inspection.