Unstable Fence
Unstable Fence is a critical structural defect SURE inspectors have documented across 62 inspection reports.
Causes
- Undetermined, possibly age, wear, or improper installation
- Deterioration
- Age
- Inappropriate backfilling and ground stabilisation works were not undertaken after the asbestos fence removal.
- Removal of the original asbestos boundary fence, which had been acting as a retaining element.
Symptoms to look for
- Fence can be rocked by hand
- Fence rocks by hand
- Leaning sections
- Instability
- Continued ground movement may contribute to movement / displacement around nearby footing zones of the dwelling over time.
Remedies
- Engage a qualified fencing contractor for repairs
- General upkeep and maintenance required
- Engage a landscaper for repair
- All works to be completed in accordance with AS 3798 (Guidelines on earthworks for commercial and residential developments), AS 4678 (Earth-retaining structures), relevant manufacturer specifications, and accepted building practice.
- Reinstate ground levels to provide adequate lateral support along the boundary and to the screening fence.
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.
Curated entries in Structural
- Curated 1–5/5External Wall Cracking Due to Settlement
Cracks in external masonry walls caused by ground movement or differential settlement of the footing system. Most observations are Category 0–2 under the BCA/AS 2870 scale (hairline to 5mm width) and represent cosmetic or minor structural concern, but a small proportion progress to Category 3–5 where structural engineer involvement is required. The crack pattern, location, and change over time determine whether this is a maintenance item or a structural event.
- Curated 1–4/5Obstructed Roof Void due to Insulation
Insulation, HVAC ducting, sarking, or stored items in the roof void prevent a complete inspection of ceiling joists and surrounding timbers. Our inspectors record this limitation because the obstructed zone could harbour undetected timber pest activity, moisture damage, or structural defects - none of which can be reported without visual access.
- Curated 1–5/5Restricted Roof Void Access due to Insulation
Insulation, sarking, HVAC ducting, or low clearance in the roof void prevents a complete visual inspection of ceiling joists, top plates, and perimeter timbers. When these areas are inaccessible, our inspectors cannot confirm whether timber pest activity, moisture damage, or structural defects are present - the limitation itself is a finding that the buyer needs to understand.
- Curated 1–5/5Timber Fungal Decay (Rot) in Fascia and Barge Boards
Fungal decay (wet rot or dry rot) in fascia and barge boards develops when timber is repeatedly wetted and unable to dry out - typically where paint has failed, where roof drainage is defective, or where the boards are end-grain exposed. Left unchecked it spreads into adjacent framing and rafter tails, converting a cosmetic repair into structural work.
- Curated 1–5/5Patched Wall Cracks
Previously cracked walls that have been patched or filled indicate prior ground movement or settlement. While the cosmetic repair may look sound at the time of inspection, the underlying cause - reactive soil movement, differential settlement, or footing inadequacy - may not have been addressed. Patched cracks that re-open signal ongoing movement and warrant structural assessment under AS 2870.
- Curated 1–5/5Leaning Fence Sections
Fence sections leaning out of plumb indicate post footing failure, material deterioration, or soil movement. A significantly leaning fence poses a safety risk - particularly for children - and will continue to worsen without intervention.