Vermont has a mix of older brick homes and renovated weatherboard properties where movement, moisture entry and DIY alterations can hide serious faults. A Major Building Defects inspection pinpoints issues that affect safety, insurance and resale before you commit.
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We inspect internal and external walls for crack patterns, step cracking in masonry, bulging, and signs of ongoing movement. This helps differentiate cosmetic shrinkage from cracks that may indicate footing issues, compromised wall ties, or structural stress that could worsen.
Where accessible, we assess subfloor ventilation, stumps/piers, bearers and joists for sagging, deterioration, moisture damage and inadequate support. These defects can lead to uneven floors, failed wet-area waterproofing, and structural instability that requires major rectification.
We examine roof coverings, flashings, valleys, gutters, and roof penetrations for leak risk, corrosion, poor installation and water entry points. In the roof space (where accessible), we check framing condition, bracing, evidence of leaks, and any alterations that may have weakened the structure.
We look for dampness indicators around bathrooms, laundries and kitchens, including swelling, staining, mould-like growth and failed sealant lines. Major defects often stem from long-term moisture, which can damage framing, lead to rot, and drive expensive rebuild work behind tiles and cabinetry.
We assess cladding, brickwork, weep holes (where relevant), window/door flashings, deck interfaces, and site drainage that may direct water toward the building. Poor falls, blocked drainage paths and defective flashing can cause concealed decay and ongoing movement.
Without performing destructive testing, we identify visible defects and safety hazards such as damaged cabling, unsafe connections, inadequate wet-area protection, leaking pipework and poor hot water installations. We flag items that require a licensed electrician or plumber for confirmation and urgent repair.
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Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about our inspection service.
Major building defects are issues that affect structural integrity, safety or habitability. In Vermont, this can include significant cracking linked to movement, compromised roof structure, persistent leaks leading to timber decay, failing subfloor supports, or unsafe alterations from renovations. We focus on defects that are costly to rectify or present immediate risk, and we explain the likely cause and what action to take next.
Yes. Renovated properties can look excellent on the surface while hiding serious issues behind new plaster, tiles and cabinetry. We pay close attention to signs of removed or altered walls, uneven floors, roof junctions where extensions meet the original house, and wet areas that may have waterproofing problems. We’ll also highlight where a structural engineer or specialist trade should verify specific elements.
Where access is available, we inspect the subfloor and visible foundation elements for movement indicators, moisture problems, timber deterioration and inadequate support. If access is restricted or unsafe, we document the limitation and advise practical options, such as requesting access improvements from the vendor or arranging targeted follow-up inspections, so you’re not making decisions with major blind spots.
Brick veneer and masonry homes in Vermont can show cracking for several reasons, including normal minor settlement, moisture changes around the site, or more serious movement. It’s not always a major defect, but crack location, width, pattern and whether it’s active matter. We assess these indicators and look for supporting signs such as sticking doors, uneven floors and external drainage issues.
A Major Building Defects inspection is geared toward high-consequence issues—structural failure risk, major water ingress, and safety hazards—rather than listing every minor maintenance item. We still inspect broadly, but we prioritise the defects that can change a buying decision or trigger significant repair costs. You’ll receive clear explanations, photos and recommended next steps for further investigation where needed.
Still have questions?
Get in TouchSpeak with ACE Building and Pest Inspections on 0413 163 187 for a Vermont-focused inspection that targets structural risk, moisture-driven damage and safety hazards before they become expensive surprises.