Specialised Building Investigations & Defect Diagnostics
Targeted assessments for moisture ingress, concrete defects, drainage performance, roof drainage and other complex building issues affecting residential and low-rise commercial properties.
Targeted Assessments to Identify the Cause of Building Defects
Some issues require more than a standard building inspection. BuildNex provides specialised investigations designed to identify the cause, extent and appropriate rectification for more complex or persistent building defects.
These investigations are suitable for homeowners, builders, strata managers and developers who need clear, evidence-based answers regarding leaks, cracking, drainage problems, roof drainage performance and other technical issues. Each investigation is conducted by Graeme Boyd, Registered Building Practitioner with more than 20 years’ construction and defect analysis experience.
Types of Specialised Investigations
Moisture & Leak Investigations
Identification of water ingress sources, including failed waterproofing, inadequate flashings, roof leaks, facade issues, plumbing faults and building envelope weaknesses.
Roof Drainage & Overflow Issues
Assessment of gutters, downpipes, overflows and roof drainage paths to determine whether the system is functioning as intended and in line with NCC-based rainwater drainage requirements.
Concrete Cracking & Surface Defects
Investigation of cracking, boning, delamination, excessive wear and uneven finishes in slabs, paths, driveways and other concrete elements to understand likely cause and risk.
Drainage & Surface Water Performance
Analysis of surface falls, stormwater flow paths, ponding and runoff around buildings, including compatibility with site conditions and local requirements where relevant.
Structural & Movement Concerns
Assessment of movement indicators such as cracking, deflection, misalignment or settlement, with a focus on whether the observed condition is cosmetic, serviceability-related or potentially structural.
Pool Area & Surround Investigation
Investigation of coping movement, grout cracking, paving defects, drainage problems and structural performance indicators around pools and adjacent areas.
What a Specialised Investigation Includes
- Focused on-site assessment of the area of concern.
- Collection of evidence such as photographs, levels, visual indicators and, where available, moisture readings or other diagnostic data.
- Assessment against NCC 2022 provisions, relevant Australian Standards and accepted construction practice where applicable.
- Identification of the most likely cause or contributing factors behind the issue.
- Practical rectification recommendations suitable for builders or relevant trades.
- Optional escalation to expert witness-style reporting if the matter becomes a dispute.
Who Uses Specialised Investigations?
- Homeowners – to understand the cause of leaks, cracks, damp areas, uneven surfaces or recurring issues.
- Builders & Developers – to resolve complex defects, validate workmanship or respond to client concerns.
- Strata Managers & Body Corporates – to diagnose building performance problems affecting multiple residents or common property.
- Lawyers & Insurers – to support technical understanding and, if needed, provide a basis for formal expert reporting.
Common Issues Investigated
- Water staining on ceilings or walls.
- Persistent damp or mould-prone areas.
- Cracks to slabs, walls, tiles or paving.
- Pooling water around the home or in courtyards.
- Insufficient falls to balconies, alfresco areas or external paving.
- Roof leaks or overflowing gutters and downpipes.
- Movement in coping, tiles or concrete around pools.
- Concrete surface wear, boning or delamination.
- Movement indicators such as doors binding or misaligned frames.
- Unexplained building performance issues causing concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you determine the exact cause of a leak or defect?
In many cases, yes. Investigations focus on identifying the most likely cause based on evidence, construction knowledge and compliance assessment. Where multiple contributing factors exist, these will be identified as far as reasonably possible.
Do you use tools like moisture meters or levels?
Where appropriate, investigations may include the use of basic diagnostic tools such as levels or moisture readings, combined with visual and construction experience-based assessment.
Can the investigation report be used in a dispute?
Yes. A specialised investigation can form the basis of discussions with builders or insurers and, if necessary, can be developed into a formal expert witness report suitable for legal or SAT (WA) proceedings.
Do you inspect both houses and apartments?
Yes. BuildNex investigates defects across detached houses, townhouses, apartments and common property in low-rise developments.
Need a Targeted Investigation into a Building Issue?
BuildNex provides detailed, practical and independent assessments to identify the causes of complex building issues and recommend appropriate rectification approaches.
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