Defect type
Critical · 3–5/5
Non-Compliant Balustrade Height or Spacing
Balustrades on balconies, stairs, or elevated decks that do not meet BCA/NCC requirements for minimum height (1000mm), maximum opening spacing (125mm), or climbability provisions. A fall-prevention safety issue commonly found in pre-2000 homes.
Causes
- Original construction predating current BCA height requirements
- DIY modifications reducing effective balustrade height
- Horizontal rail design allowing children to climb
Symptoms to look for
- Balustrade height below 1000mm on balconies and decks
- Openings between balusters exceeding 125mm
- Horizontal rails or climbable elements within 150mm of floor
Remedies
- Raise balustrade to minimum 1000mm height
- Infill openings to comply with 125mm maximum gap
- Replace horizontal rail design with vertical balusters or glass
Critical
Get an inspector through this property.
Findings in this category skew high severity. If you are under contract, we can usually book inside the cooling-off window. Every inspection includes 12 months of free advice.
Same category