Reading a failing balcony as one structure
Four findings that were really one problem.
In short: Balustrade, flooring, masonry and beams all failing together is not four defects. It is a water path.
What was reported to us
Visible damage to a balcony, initially described by the owner as a balustrade problem.
What the inspection found
Damage to the balustrades, deterioration in the structural flooring, breakdown in sections of limestone masonry and damage to the structural beams beneath.
Reading it as a sequence
Taken separately each item invites a separate repair. Taken together they describe water reaching the structure over a long period and doing progressive damage.
Why that distinction matters
It changes the remedy from patching finishes to addressing the structure and the water path, and it changes who carries responsibility.
Where it goes next
Structural remedy is an engineer's design. The investigation establishes what failed and against what requirement, then says plainly that an engineer is the next step.
Written by the Owner Inspections team from inspections carried out in Pakenham East. Licensed building practitioners, Building & Plumbing Commission registration CDB-U 53425.
