Defect Explainers

Slab edge alignment plays a key role in new home construction. Learn how inspectors identify issues before the concrete is poured.

Gaps around window frames are a common issue identified during new home construction. This guide explains why they occur, when they matter, and how independent building inspections help ensure they are properly addressed before handover.

Poor silicone sealant is a common issue in new homes. Learn how inspectors identify these defects and why they matter before handover.

Vapour barriers protect new homes from ground moisture, but installation problems can sometimes occur before the slab is poured. Learn what inspectors check during slab stage inspections.

Squeaky laminate floorboards are a common concern in new homes. This guide explains why laminate flooring can creak, when it may be a defect, and how inspectors assess it.

Small gaps around door frames are a common issue in new homes. Learn what causes them, when they may be considered defects, and how independent inspections identify workmanship problems.

Learn what inspectors commonly identify during PCI inspections in new Melbourne homes and why pre-handover inspections can be valuable before settlement.

What inspectors often find during slab stage inspections in Melbourne. Understand common slab preparation issues before concrete is poured.

Drummy tiles produce a hollow sound when tapped or walked on. This guide explains what causes hollow tiles in new homes, when they are considered defects, and how building inspectors assess tile installation during stage inspections.

Paint defects such as roller marks, patchy coverage and paint runs are commonly identified during PCI inspections. Learn which issues should be corrected before new home handover.

Uneven shower floors are a common question during new build stage inspections and PCI inspections. This guide explains how shower falls work and when uneven tiles may indicate a problem.

Hollow or loose sounding tiles are sometimes identified during new home inspections. This guide explains why hollow tiles occur, how inspectors test tile adhesion, and when repairs may be recommended before handover.

Doors Not Aligned in New Homes are commonly noticed during fix stage or PCI inspections. This guide explains why doors may appear uneven, how inspectors assess installation and what building tolerances allow.

Tile Lipping in New Homes — When Tiles Sit Uneven is a common observation during PCI inspections. Learn why tile lippage occurs, how inspectors assess uneven tiles, and when the variation may fall within construction tolerances.

Shower Screen Leaks in New Homes can occur due to tile falls, screen positioning or sealant details. A Melbourne building inspector explains what causes water to escape shower screens and how these issues are assessed during new build inspections.

Water stains on ceilings in new homes can appear during construction or after handover. This guide explains what inspectors look for during stage inspections and when moisture marks may require investigation.

Cracked brickwork when buying a house is a common concern for Melbourne property buyers. This guide explains how inspectors assess brick cracks, what causes them, and when they may indicate structural movement.

Window Flashing Defects in New Homes — Why Water Gets Behind Brickwork explains how flashing, brick veneer cavities and weep holes work together to manage moisture in new homes across Melbourne growth suburbs such as Tarneit, Clyde North and Donnybrook.

Small holes or gaps in brick mortar joints are sometimes noticed during new home inspections. This guide explains why mortar voids occur, how inspectors assess them, and when repairs may be recommended.

Doors that don't close properly in new homes are a common finishing concern. This guide explains why door alignment can change during settlement, how inspectors assess door frames and hinges, and how tolerances are applied in Victoria.