Templestowe homes often sit on sloping blocks near creek corridors and reactive clay soils, which can drive movement, cracking and drainage-related damage. A major defects inspection pinpoints structural and safety issues before they become expensive surprises.
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We assess cracking patterns in brickwork, plaster and tiles, check for stepped cracks and distortion around openings, and look for signs of differential movement. In Templestowe’s reactive soil areas and sloping sites, this helps distinguish cosmetic cracking from major defects linked to footing performance.
We trace how stormwater is directed around the home, check fall away from the building, and identify areas where water may pond against walls or enter subfloors. Poor drainage is a common driver of movement and timber deterioration, and it can accelerate major defects if left untreated.
We inspect accessible roof spaces and visible roof surfaces for sagging rafters, spread, water staining, damaged tiles/metal sheets, and failing flashings around valleys, chimneys and penetrations. Roof leaks can trigger major defects in ceilings, framing and insulation, and often worsen after heavy rain events.
Where present, we check retaining walls for rotation, cracking, bulging, drainage failures and overflow paths that direct water toward the house. Retaining wall distress can signal broader ground movement on Templestowe’s sloped blocks and may affect the stability of nearby structures and paving.
We look for uneven floors, sticking doors, ceiling cracking, water-damaged linings, and signs of overloaded or altered structural elements such as removed walls or undersized beams. These indicators can point to major defects that need engineering input before purchase or renovation.
We identify observable issues such as water pressure/leak indicators, corroded pipework, wet-area water damage, exposed wiring, unsafe DIY alterations and deteriorated switchboards where accessible. While not a full compliance test, these checks highlight defects that can create immediate safety risks or costly rectification.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
In Templestowe, we often see defect risks linked to sloping sites and drainage—water tracking toward the house, subfloor dampness and movement-related cracking. Retaining walls can also contribute if drainage is poor. Older homes may show roof leak impacts such as ceiling staining and timber deterioration. Renovations can introduce structural issues if walls are altered without adequate support or waterproofing is poorly detailed.
Yes. Where retaining walls and drainage elements are accessible, we assess visible signs of distress such as bulging, cracking, rotation and poor water control. We also look at how surface water and downpipes are managed around the home because uncontrolled runoff can drive both wall failure and footing movement. If we see warning signs, we’ll recommend the right specialist follow-up.
We assess crack location, direction, width, and whether there are associated indicators like distorted frames, uneven floors, or separation at joins. While no visual inspection can replace engineering calculations, experienced assessment can identify patterns that are consistent with structural movement versus typical shrinkage or settlement. Where risk appears higher, we’ll advise on engaging a structural engineer for confirmation and scope.
They can be. New linings, paint and tiled finishes can conceal water ingress, cracking repairs and altered structural elements. In Templestowe, extensions at the rear or split-level changes on sloping blocks can create junction points where movement, drainage and waterproofing issues show up later. We pay close attention to transitions between original and newer work and look for subtle indicators that something has been covered rather than fixed.
We need safe access to all available internal rooms, the roof space where an access hatch exists, and external areas around the building including subfloor access points if present. We also check visible services and drainage where accessible. If an area is unsafe or blocked, we’ll note the limitation and explain what that means for risk, plus any recommended further checks before settlement.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchACE Building and Pest Inspections focuses on the defects that can derail a purchase in Templestowe—movement, moisture entry, roof failures and safety hazards—so you can act before costs escalate. Call 0413 163 187 to arrange an inspection.