Building assessment and movement Melbourne

Structural movement assessment

All buildings are subject to a degree of movement. On some occasions, the movement is excessive and outside the accepted tolerances and margins.

This often results in associated building damage as well as a possible risk to the reputation of the builder. Often movement can be prevented.

The main reasons for building movement are;

  1. Unidentified breaks in drains resulting in storm water/sewerage discharging into the surrounding ground

  2. Drains not installed as per the Engineers Specifications

  3. Poor Installation or Incomplete Installation by the plumber which can result in poor catchment and effective management of site water 


  4. Poor / Incomplete Landscaping resulting in water run off not being controlled or managed. 


All of these factors can contribute to a significant imbalance in the moisture equilibrium in the soil around the home, resulting in slab heave / building movement.

These factors can largely be eliminated by post slab pour and pre-handover drain inspections ensuring there are no defects, combined with ensuring that clients have a thorough understanding of the CSIRO Guidelines regarding landscaping and water run off management.

Through our experience in working with various engineers and consultants over a variety of movement projects we can offer a comprehensive report package which includes:

  • USB of camera inspection of storm water drains and sewer main run

  • Written Report Including site plan detailing location and nature of drain breaks (If any) in the storm water /sewer

  • Floor Level Survey and recording of the relevant measurements on a floor plan;
- Inspection of Roof trusses and truss brackets for clearance and connection

  • Photographing / Documentation of building defects associated with any building movement

  • Photographing / Documentation of other factors believed to be contributing factors