Defective Plumbing

Plumbing and water-proofing defects can be notorious causes behind the degradation of structural strength and integrity of a building. In the coastal region of Queensland, moisture is an enemy of building structure. Rusting or corrosion at joints, failure of flashings, improper or insufficient freeboard under roof coverings; inadequate gradient; lack of adequate downpipes and sumps further devour the well-being of the building.

Detection of Plumbing Defects – Areas Demanding Attention

• Inefficient water-proofing in roofs: In the Australian climate, deterioration of roofs is inevitable. Even the best-looking roof will be an object of leaking sooner or later. Inadequate framing leads to sagging of roofs. Since the common materials used in construction and roof claddings are dissimilar in lifespan, it is difficult to predict durability.
• Dysfunctional gutters: Improper functioning of these valley gutters and eaves gutters sharply augments the possibilities of damage.
• Water penetration through parapet and flashings: Failure of chimney tray flashings, parapets, chimneys and counter flashings are detrimental for the lifespan of the roofing.
• Faulty downpipes and sumps: Poor design, unnecessary bends, inadequate dimension, insufficient fall and blockages of sumps and downpipes prove to be bad to the structural health.
• Missing flashings or weep holes: Moisture seepage becomes a serious threat in places where weep holes are missing under sills or around openings. Timber sills begin to decay and the mortar around the door and window frames loosen to allow the influx of water.
• Lack of maintenance: Lack of regular cleaning and repair of tiles, gutters and downpipes can aggravate the condition further.

As a buyer of property, you will certainly not invest in a building with leaky pipes, mould, sagged roofs and concrete issues. And it’s wise to pay close attention to the condition of plumbing pipes and fixtures. But it will be almost impossible for you to detect damage which is not easily visible. For this you will need the help of an experienced building inspector who uses scientific methods for detection. The inspector will evaluate the following:

• Waste lines and plumbing
• Concealed damp-proofing
• Drainage and gas fitting
• Swimming pools and pool equipment
• Watering systems
• Fireplaces, parapets and chimneys
• Sinks, gutters, downpipes, sumps and flashings
• All other areas receiving water or exposed to moisture

All building inspection reports will be provided only after thorough analysis using thermal imaging and other scientific methods. Veteran property inspectors at Inspex (Gold Coast or Brisbane), who are also licensed builders, can suggest suitable actions and estimate the cost of repairs.