Building Inspections in Perth CBD
Stock profile · ABS 2021 Census
What’s here in Perth
- Separate houses
- 8.6%
- Semi-detached / townhouse
- 11.1%
- Flats & apartments
- 79.9%
5,999 occupied private dwellings
Local profile · ABS 2021 Census
Who lives in Perth
- Median age
- 33yrs
How Perth
was built
Perth's development reflects its status as Western Australia's capital, with a rich architectural history. Early settlement saw the construction of Federation and interwar cottages, many of which still stand today, contributing to the city's heritage character. The period between the 1970s and 1990s brought significant infill development, introducing a range of housing styles. More recently, from the 2000s onwards, the CBD has seen a boom in apartment towers, transforming the skyline and offering modern urban living options. This blend of eras means properties in Perth can feature timber-framed roofs and brick-veneer substructures across different construction periods, each presenting unique inspection considerations.
Top defects in Perth
Five issues we find most.
From 79 SURE inspections in Perth. Each defect is anonymous. No property is identified.
30 defect types indexed across 79 inspections
Common issues in Perth
Inspecting
Perth homes
In Perth (postcode 6000), our inspections frequently identify issues common to its mixed housing stock and geology. We often find External Wall Cracking due to Settlement, noted in 49.3% of our reports, and Bedroom 2 Ceiling/Cornice Join Cracks, present in 35.6% of inspections. Paint deterioration on front entry doors is also a recurring finding, appearing in 32.9% of reports. Given Perth's geology of Swan River alluvial flats, Bassendean Sand, Perth Coastal Limestone, and reactive clay, we pay close attention to drainage and slab response. Our inspector, Kim Steele, is familiar with the diverse construction eras, from pre-1970 cottages to modern apartment towers, and the common timber-framed roofs and brick-veneer substructures.
DefectIndex
SURE has indexed 30 defects across 79 inspections in the Perth region. That data underlies every finding we report in Perth.
Perth and surrounding suburbs
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors · Tiles © CARTO
Questions we hear about Perth
Do newer homes in Perth still require a pre-purchase inspection?
Yes, absolutely. While Perth features many modern apartment towers and infill developments from the 2000s onwards, even newer constructions can have defects. Our inspections in Perth have identified issues like Bedroom 2 Ceiling/Cornice Join Cracks in 35.6% of reports and Front Entry Door Paint Deterioration in 32.9% of reports, regardless of the property's age. We thoroughly check all accessible areas to provide a complete picture.
How does Perth's geology impact properties here?
Perth's geology, characterized by Swan River alluvial flats, Bassendean Sand, Perth Coastal Limestone, and pockets of reactive clay, means drainage and stormwater management are crucial. These soil conditions can contribute to issues like External Wall Cracking due to Settlement, which we've noted in 49.3% of our reports. Our inspectors assess how the ground conditions may affect the building's foundation and structure.
Who will be conducting my inspection in Perth and what support do I get afterwards?
Your inspection in Perth will be conducted by Kim Steele, one of our certified inspectors with extensive knowledge of the area. We aim to deliver your comprehensive report within 24 hours of the inspection where access and availability allow. Following this, you receive 12 months of free phone and email support from Kim Steele to discuss any aspect of your report.
What are the most common building defects found in Perth?
Based on an indicative sample of 79 SURE inspections carried out in Perth, the most common defects we identify are: External Wall Cracking due to Settlement, Bedroom 2 Ceiling/Cornice Join Crack, External Door Paint Deterioration, Trees in Close Proximity to Dwelling, Obstructed Roof Void due to Insulation.
Are termite or timber pest concerns common in Perth?
Yes. Across 79 inspections in Perth, the most common timber-pest findings include Timber in Contact with Ground, High Termite Risk Due to Environmental Surrounds, Slab Edge Concealed by Soil, Paving, or Raised Garden Beds. We recommend a timber-pest inspection alongside any pre-purchase building inspection here.
What structural issues are typical for homes in Perth?
Common structural findings we record in Perth include External Wall Cracking due to Settlement, Obstructed Roof Void due to Insulation, Timber Fungal Decay (Rot) in Fascia and Barge Boards. Each finding is reported alongside remedy recommendations and covered by 12 months free advice.
Is moisture a concern in Perth homes?
Deteriorated Splashback Sealant and Missing or Unidentifiable Damp Proof Course are among the moisture-related findings recorded across 79 inspections in Perth. Our inspectors use moisture-meter readings to quantify any issue they detect.
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Real defects our inspectors have flagged
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9,237 inspections · 242,618 defects found · Inspector-owned franchises
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