Templestowe’s sloping blocks, split-level homes and older brick veneer builds can hide movement, retaining wall pressure and roof framing issues that only show up with a focused structural defects inspection.
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We assess visible signs of footing or slab movement, including stepped brickwork cracking, separation at corners, distorted openings and uneven floors. These indicators help distinguish cosmetic cracking from patterns consistent with ongoing movement that may require engineering advice.
We inspect retaining walls (where accessible) for leaning, bulging, failed drainage outlets and cracking that suggests soil pressure or water build-up. In hilly parts of Templestowe, retaining wall performance directly affects adjacent structures, paving and drainage fall.
Where there is a subfloor, we check stumps, bearers and joists for rot, borer damage, inadequate support, packer failure and moisture conditions. Subfloor defects can cause floor bounce, sagging and progressive distortion through the home.
We inspect the roof space (when safe) for sagging rafters, altered trusses, undersized members, water staining, and compromised connections. Roof structural defects are often linked to long-term leaks, DIY alterations, or insufficient bracing after renovations.
We examine brickwork and load-bearing walls for cracking patterns, bowing and signs of lintel corrosion or failure above windows and doors. Lintel issues can present as progressive cracking and binding doors, particularly in older masonry sections.
We identify moisture sources that commonly lead to major structural deterioration, including failed flashings, balcony and wet-area leaks, poor site drainage and overflowing stormwater. Pinpointing the moisture pathway is essential to stopping further timber decay and ongoing movement.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
On sloping sites in Templestowe, we often see movement-related cracking, uneven floors and stress around extensions where footings differ between old and new sections. Retaining walls can also fail due to poor drainage, increasing pressure on adjacent structures. We focus on cracking patterns, floor levels, retaining wall condition, drainage fall and any signs that moisture is undermining the subfloor or foundations.
Yes—where safe and accessible, we enter the roof space and subfloor to check structural members and the conditions that cause failure. In the roof, we look for sagging, altered trusses, water damage and inadequate bracing. Underfloor, we assess stumps, bearers, joists, ventilation and moisture. If access is restricted, we document limitations and recommend next steps.
We look at the crack location, width, direction and whether it aligns with movement indicators like sticking doors, sloping floors, gaps at cornices, or separation at brickwork corners. Stepped cracking in masonry, recurring cracks after patching, and distortion around openings can indicate structural movement. We also consider moisture and drainage conditions that can drive ongoing change over time.
They can be, particularly where walls hold back significant height or direct water towards the home. We check for leaning, bulging, cracking, failed weep holes, water staining and soft ground at the base—signs that drainage is not relieving pressure. We also consider how the wall interacts with driveways, paths and the dwelling. Severe movement may warrant a structural engineer’s assessment.
We identify visible plumbing and electrical issues that can create safety hazards or drive structural damage, such as persistent leaks, inadequate drainage discharge, or heat damage around penetrations. Full compliance certification isn’t the same as an inspection, so if we observe risks or non-compliant indicators, we’ll recommend the appropriate licensed plumber or electrician to investigate and certify as needed.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchSpeak with ACE Building and Pest Inspections on 0413 163 187 for a structural-focused assessment that targets movement, moisture-driven deterioration and roof/subfloor risks common across Templestowe properties.