Hi, I’m Russell McCarthy, lead building inspector and founder of WA Building Inspections Perth. Over the years, I’ve seen countless building projects in Osborne Park and throughout Perth. One thing that remains constant is this: 95% of builders get a critical step wrong, leading to dangerous building defects. The good news is that with the right knowledge, you can avoid these costly mistakes and ensure your home is built to last.

In this article, I’ll share what I found from a recent building inspection in Osborne Park, where we discovered a serious issue involving tie-down battens. I’ll explain what went wrong and how you can spot building defects before they become major problems in your home.

What Are Building Defects?

Building defects refer to faults or flaws in the structure of a building. These can range from minor cosmetic issues to major structural problems that can affect the safety and longevity of your home. Whether it’s a hairline crack in the plaster or a serious roof issue, building defects should never be ignored.

One of the most common sources of building defects in Perth—and particularly in areas like Osborne Park—is the incorrect installation of tie-down battens. These battens are a crucial part of your roof’s structure, helping to anchor it during high winds and storms. Unfortunately, 95% of builders don’t install them correctly, which can lead to serious issues down the line.

For homeowners building in Perth, it’s essential to have stage building inspections to spot these defects early. At WA Building Inspections Perth Book a Perth building inspection, we specialise in identifying these issues before they become costly problems.

The Mistake 95% of Builders Make

So, what’s the mistake that 95% of builders are making? It comes down to improper installation of battens and straps.

As I mention in the video above, “They’ve put the correct size tie-down battens in, but they haven’t installed the straps correctly. Tie-down battens need to be 45 mm thick, but 95% of builders use 35 mm battens, saying that’s what the engineers recommend. However, engineers are not permitted to fall below the National Construction Code.”

This kind of oversight leads to serious building defects. Improperly secured metal straps can jeopardise the structural integrity of your roof, putting your entire home at risk. If you’re building or renovating in Osborne Park, you need to ensure your builder is adhering to proper construction guidelines.

We’ve seen similar issues in areas like Rockingham and Mandurah during our inspections. If you’re building in these regions, booking a building inspection in Rockingham to Mandurah can save you from potential disaster.

How to Spot Building Defects During Construction

Whether you’re in Osborne Park, Midland, or other Perth suburbs, knowing how to spot building defects during construction can save you significant time and money. Here’s a quick checklist to help:

1. Inspect the tie-down battens: As I mentioned earlier, battens need to be 45 mm thick, and the metal straps must be secured properly. If not, it can lead to dangerous building defects.
2. Ensure compliance with the National Construction Code: Builders and engineers must follow these guidelines to ensure the safety and durability of your home. If they don’t, you’re likely to end up with structural defects.
3. Schedule regular inspections: Booking a building inspection in Osborne Park with a trusted inspector can help you catch these issues early. At WA Building Inspections Midland, we specialise in identifying structural defects and ensuring your home is built to Australian standards.

If you’re building in Perth and want to avoid these common building defects, don’t hesitate to contact us for an inspection.

What Happens If Building Defects Aren’t Caught?

Failing to catch building defects early can lead to expensive repairs and potentially hazardous living conditions. In the case of incorrectly installed tie-down battens, the roof may not be properly secured, which could result in major damage during Perth’s windy seasons.

By scheduling a Perth building inspection, we can identify these issues before they escalate. It’s better to fix them during construction than face a costly repair down the line. At WA Building Inspections, we’ve helped homeowners across Perth spot and address defects before they turn into bigger problems, namely, your problem! Don’t let that happen! For a new build, defects are the builders problem, but you need to identify them first.

FAQs About Building Defects in Osborne Park

1. What are the most common building defects in Osborne Park?

The most common building defects in Osborne Park include improperly installed tie-down battens, poor workmanship, and violations of the National Construction Code. Regular building inspections in Perth can help homeowners detect these issues before they cause structural damage.

2. How can I prevent building defects during construction?

The best way to prevent building defects is by working with a qualified and experienced building inspector. At WA Building Inspections Perth, we provide thorough inspections during all stages of construction to ensure everything is up to code and safe.

3. What should I do if I find building defects in my home?

If you find any building defects, it’s important to address them immediately. Contact a professional for a thorough inspection and repairs. You can book a detailed building inspection in Perth with our team to assess the situation and provide recommendations.

4. Are building defects covered by insurance?

It depends on the policy, but most insurers don’t cover building defects caused by poor workmanship. This is why regular building inspections in Midland and across Perth are crucial in catching defects early and preventing long-term issues.

5. How often should I get my home inspected for building defects?

It’s advisable to schedule building inspections during key stages of construction and periodically after completion. Booking a building inspection in Osborne Park or the surrounding Perth areas can give you peace of mind knowing your home is free of building defects.