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Preston’s mix of older weatherboard homes, extended brick veneers and renovated cottages can hide movement, moisture damage and altered load paths behind fresh finishes—exactly where major structural defects like to sit.
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Our comprehensive service includes everything you need to make an informed decision about your property.
We inspect cracking patterns in brickwork, rendered walls, internal plaster and around openings to distinguish typical shrinkage from signs of footing movement, differential settlement or ongoing structural stress. We note crack location, direction and severity so you understand what’s cosmetic and what indicates a bigger issue.
We check for sagging floors, inadequate support, damaged or altered bearers/joists, and signs of stump movement or deterioration. In Preston’s older homes, we pay close attention to moisture impact, ventilation, and any evidence of partial re-stumping that can leave uneven support points.
We assess accessible roof framing for sagging, spread, water damage and structural changes. Where renovations have opened living areas, we look for indicators that load-bearing walls may have been modified without adequate beams, posts or bracing—issues that can lead to cracking, ceiling movement and roof distortion.
We look for signs that water is compromising structural components, including dampness around wet areas, roof leaks affecting ceiling and framing, and external drainage issues contributing to subfloor decay. Moisture is a major driver of timber rot and structural weakening, not just a cosmetic concern.
We inspect lintels, supports over windows/doors, and masonry condition for deflection, corrosion-related expansion and loss of bearing. This matters for properties where openings have been enlarged or where older steel lintels have been exposed to moisture over time.
We identify structural safety risks such as unstable verandahs/decks, loose balustrades, failing retaining elements, and sections showing significant deflection. Where relevant, we also flag visible red flags that can impact plumbing and electrical compliance when movement has affected penetrations, fixtures or service runs.
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Get Major Structural Defects as part of a comprehensive inspection package
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Preston we often see movement-related cracking, uneven floors linked to stump or subfloor support issues, and roof framing concerns where extensions or open-plan renovations have changed load paths. Moisture can also play a big role—subfloor dampness and roof leaks can weaken timber over time. The inspection focuses on defect indicators that affect stability and safety, not just surface wear.
We look for practical signs that structural support may have been altered, such as cracking above openings, ceiling distortion, uneven door gaps, and roof framing changes that suggest load redistribution. We also assess visible beam/post installation quality where accessible. While we don’t certify engineering design, our findings help you decide if an engineer should review the renovation before you commit or proceed further.
We assess signs consistent with footing or foundation movement by inspecting external and internal cracking, levels, drainage conditions and any accessible subfloor support system. Many footings aren’t directly visible, so the assessment is evidence-based rather than invasive. If indicators suggest significant or ongoing movement, we’ll recommend appropriate next steps, which may include an engineer or further targeted investigation.
They can be. Older Preston homes often have low subfloor clearance, garden beds built up against the house, or limited ventilation that traps moisture. Over time, that can contribute to timber decay, sagging floors and loss of structural capacity in bearers and joists. During the inspection we look for damp indicators, ventilation limitations and any associated structural deterioration to help you act early.
We document the defect indicators, explain the likely consequence, and prioritise the risk so you’re clear on urgency. For serious items we’ll suggest the most sensible next step—often a structural engineer for design confirmation, or a specialist trade for targeted repairs—before you spend money on cosmetic fixes. If you’re buying, this information supports negotiation or a decision to walk away.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the defects that compromise stability—movement, moisture damage and renovation-related load issues—so you can make a confident call on your Preston property. Call 0413 163 187.