Structural Inspection and Appraisal by Builder
Our inspectors are experienced Licensed Builders and can provide generalised structural advice specific to your situation – such as cause, implications and best remedy.
Structural Inspection and Advice by licensed Builder
Our building inspectors are experienced licensed builders. They can inspect your structural concern and make an appraisal of the situation as part of a Structural Inspection. After the inspection, a written report is provided, detailing matters such as the likely cause, related implications, best methods of rectification as well as any relevant National Construction Codes, Australian Standards or other building codes that may have a bearing on the situation.
The ‘NSW Guide to Standards and Tolerances’ is a good reference point for classification of cracks in new buildings, relative to size and age. Cracking of render coatings, brickwork and concrete slabs is extremely common and usually relates to problems with the installation of materials or elements such as; no footings, inadequate cement mixes, insufficient curing times, mixing or placement issues, lack of expansion joints and slip pads are just a few of the more common causes of structural concerns, cracks or render damage.
Not all cracks are an indication of a structural problem, many falling into the ‘cosmetic’ category. However the concern is where structural movement and cracking lead to other more serious building defects like leaking, water penetration, loss of insulation, loss of structural integrity and even defects with sticking doors and windows. Cracking and structural issues can affect the amenity or safety of the occupants and most cracks are considered to be a major defect, even though they may not be a structural concern.
Different kinds of building structures should be experiencing cracking differently and ‘within the expectations’ for that kind of building or structure. Cracking and structural problems are very much a matter of ‘contex’. Sometimes cracks in buildings are monitored over a period of time, using things like crack guages, to determine the rate, size and direction of movement in the walls/floors.
It is important to understand that Building Inspectors are not structural engineers. Our reports do not include specific structural designs or structural certificates. In more extreme circumstances, the building inspector may still recommend an engineer.
Any structural modifications, renovations or new buildings should be designed and certified by an engineer, architect or building designer.
Our building inspectors can help sort out the mess and provide certainty with your structural problem or conern
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Should I get a Structural Report by a Builder?
It is strongly advised that you follow the recommendations in your report. Our building inspectors have the benefit of experience.
Cracking is commonplace in most properties, but cracking can get worse over time and this deterioration can be difficult to predict. Elevated external timber balconies and decks can become major safety hazards and have been responsible for numerous deaths in recent years due to complete collapse. These should be inspected by an engineer where damage is detected. As a rule of thumb if the cracking or structural damage is beyond what one would reasonably expect to see in a property of that type and age, or if the damage poses a potential safety hazard then a structural report is considered essential.
If in doubt talk to your inspector.
Book an Inspection today on 0488 900386