Buying a house is a huge investment, and the last thing you want is to discover costly structural problems after you’ve signed the dotted line. While a fresh coat of paint or stylish renovations can be appealing, it’s crucial to look beyond the surface and assess the property’s structural integrity. Auspect Building & Pest Consultants, serving the Gold Coast and Northern NSW, are here to guide you through some key signs that a house might have underlying structural issues. Being aware of these red flags can save you from a financial headache and ensure your dream home doesn’t turn into a nightmare.
Structural problems can range from minor settling cracks to major foundation issues, and they can significantly impact the safety and value of a property. It’s always recommended to engage a qualified building and pest inspector like Auspect before making an offer on a house. However, being aware of some common signs yourself can help you make a more informed decision during the initial viewing.
Here are some key things to look out for:
Foundation Problems:
- Cracks: While some minor cracks are normal, especially in newer homes, large or growing cracks in the foundation, walls, or floors can be a sign of significant settling or movement. Pay close attention to cracks that are wider than 5mm, zigzagging, or appear to be getting bigger over time.
- Uneven Floors: Sloping or uneven floors can indicate foundation issues. You can test this by placing a marble or ball on the floor and seeing if it rolls.
- Doors and Windows that Stick: Doors and windows that are difficult to open or close can be a sign of structural movement. Check for gaps around frames or signs of recent repairs.
- Leaning Walls: Visibly leaning walls, especially exterior walls, are a serious concern and require immediate attention.
- Gaps between Walls and Ceilings: Gaps appearing between walls and ceilings can be a sign of settling or movement.
Roof Issues:
- Sagging Roofline: A roofline that appears to be sagging or uneven can indicate structural problems with the roof framing.
- Damaged or Missing Tiles/Shingles: Damaged or missing roof coverings can lead to water leaks and damage to the underlying structure.
- Water Stains: Water stains on ceilings or walls can be a sign of roof leaks or plumbing issues.
- Rotting or Damaged Fascia and Soffit: Rotting or damaged fascia and soffit boards can indicate water damage and structural problems.
Wall Problems:
- Cracks (as mentioned above): Pay close attention to the size, location, and pattern of cracks in walls.
- Bowing Walls: Walls that appear to be bowing inwards or outwards can be a sign of structural problems.
- Wallpaper that is Wrinkled or Peeling: Wallpaper that is wrinkled or peeling can sometimes be a sign of underlying wall issues.
Other Potential Issues:
- Musty Odours: Persistent musty odours can indicate dampness or mould, which can be caused by structural problems or leaks.
- Signs of Previous Repairs: Look for signs of previous repairs, such as patched cracks or replaced sections of flooring. While some repairs may be sound, it’s important to understand the nature of the previous damage and ensure it has been properly addressed.
- Drainage Issues: Poor drainage around the house can lead to water pooling and potential foundation problems.
Remember, these are just some of the things to look out for. A professional building and pest inspection is essential to identify any structural issues and assess their severity. Auspect Building & Pest Consultants, serving the Gold Coast and Northern NSW, can provide you with a comprehensive report, giving you the information you need to make an informed decision about your potential purchase. Don’t risk your investment, get a professional inspection and buy with confidence.
Email or call us on 07 5668 2279 and we’d be happy to answer your questions and arrange a free quote.