Identify Building Defects.Get Engineers' Answers.

Not all cracks are structural. Some may result from normal material movement or minor settlement, while others can indicate foundation movement or structural distress. The location, width, pattern and whether the crack is changing over time all help determine its significance. A structural assessment can identify the likely cause and whether further action is required.

Consider contacting a structural engineer if cracks are getting wider, repeatedly reappearing, extending through brickwork, occurring alongside uneven floors or sticking doors and windows, or if you notice other signs of building movement. An engineer can assess whether the cracking is cosmetic or related to an underlying structural or foundation issue.

Possible signs include new or widening cracks, stepped cracks in brickwork, doors or windows that start sticking, uneven or sloping floors, gaps forming between walls and ceilings, and separation between building elements. These signs do not necessarily mean there is a serious structural problem, but they may warrant further investigation.

Stepped cracking can occur when different parts of a building move relative to each other. Possible causes include foundation settlement, reactive soil movement, drainage problems, changes in moisture conditions or other structural movement. The crack pattern and surrounding conditions need to be assessed before the cause can be reliably determined.

Yes. Reactive clay soils can expand when they absorb moisture and shrink as they dry. This movement can cause foundations to move unevenly and may contribute to cracking or distortion in a building. Drainage, vegetation, seasonal moisture changes and foundation design can also influence how a building responds.

A building inspector can identify visible defects and may recommend further investigation. Where cracking may involve foundations, structural movement or structural performance, a structural engineer can provide a more detailed engineering assessment of the likely cause, significance and appropriate next steps.

Depending on the property and the issue, an assessment may include a site inspection, review and documentation of visible defects, assessment of cracking or movement, consideration of likely causes and evaluation of structural significance. Where appropriate, we can provide an engineering report outlining our findings, recommendations and any further investigation or remedial work that may be required.

In many cases, an engineering investigation can identify the likely cause or contributing factors behind building damage. This may involve assessing cracking patterns, structural movement, foundations, drainage, materials, deterioration and site conditions. Where the available evidence is not sufficient, further investigation, monitoring or testing may be recommended before reaching a conclusion.

Yes. Where appropriate, an independent engineering assessment can document the damage, investigate its likely cause and provide an engineering opinion that may assist with an insurance claim or dispute. The scope of the assessment and report should be tailored to the requirements of the particular insurance matter.

Yes. Engineering reports may be used as technical evidence in NCAT building disputes where they are prepared for the relevant issues and purpose. Where expert evidence is required, the report and engineer must also comply with the applicable NCAT requirements and expert witness obligations. IA Engineering can provide engineering assessment and expert reporting for suitable NCAT matters.