Owning a building—whether residential or commercial—comes with the responsibility of maintaining its structural integrity. Over time, various issues can arise due to environmental factors, wear and tear, and construction defects. Left unaddressed, these problems can lead to costly repairs, safety hazards, and reduced property value. This is where remedial building services come in.

As a remedial builder and registered building practitioner in Sydney, BIRS specialises in diagnosing and resolving a wide range of building issues. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common building problems that require remedial services, how to identify them, and why early intervention is crucial.

1. Roof Deterioration and Waterproofing Issues

Signs to Look For:

• Water leaks or damp patches on ceilings
• Mould or mildew growth in the attic or upper floors
• Cracked, broken, or missing roof tiles
• Pooling water on flat roofs
• Staining or peeling paint on internal walls

Causes & Risks:

Roof deterioration can occur due to exposure to extreme weather conditions, poor maintenance, or faulty installation. Leaks, in particular, can lead to severe structural damage and health risks due to mould growth.

Solution:

Roof restorations and waterproofing services ensure that leaks are sealed, tiles replaced, and waterproof coatings applied to extend the lifespan of your roof.

2. Balcony and Balustrade Damage

Signs to Look For:

• Cracks or movement in the balcony floor
• Rusting or loose balustrades
• Water pooling and drainage issues
• Uneven or sagging balcony surfaces

Causes & Risks:

Balcony issues arise due to improper waterproofing, structural wear, and material deterioration. A weak balustrade poses serious safety risks, especially in high-rise buildings.

Solution:

Balcony and balustrade repairs include structural reinforcement, waterproofing applications, and compliance checks to meet Australian safety standards.

3. Retaining Wall Failures

Signs to Look For:

• Tilting or bulging walls
• Large visible cracks
• Water seepage through the wall
• Loose or fallen bricks or blocks

Causes & Risks:

Poor drainage, soil movement, and inadequate construction can cause retaining walls to weaken over time. If not repaired, they can collapse, leading to property damage and safety hazards.

Solution:

Retaining walls need structural repairs, proper drainage solutions, and reinforcement techniques to ensure stability.

4. Concrete Spalling (Concrete Cancer)

Signs to Look For:

• Flaking, cracking, or chipping concrete
• Rust stains on walls and ceilings
• Exposed reinforcing steel (rebar)
• Weak or crumbling concrete surfaces

Causes & Risks:

Concrete spalling occurs when moisture seeps into the concrete, causing the steel reinforcement inside to rust and expand. This weakens the structure and can lead to significant failures if untreated.

Solution:

Concrete spalling repairs involve removing damaged concrete, treating rusted reinforcement, and applying protective coatings.

5. Cracked or Damaged Concrete Driveways

Signs to Look For:

• Large cracks or uneven surfaces
• Potholes or surface erosion
• Water pooling on the driveway
• Loose or displaced concrete slabs

Causes & Risks:

Frequent vehicle use, soil movement, and weather exposure can degrade concrete driveways over time, creating trip hazards and structural instability.

Solution:

Concrete driveway repairs may include resurfacing, sealing cracks, or full replacement for long-term durability.

6. Pool Surface Deterioration

Signs to Look For:

• Cracked or missing tiles
• Discoloured or rough pool surface
• Water leakage from pool shell
• Loose or deteriorated coping

Causes & Risks:

Exposure to chemicals, water pressure, and poor installation can lead to damage in pool surfaces, leading to leaks and unsafe swimming conditions.

Solution:

Pool restorations include resurfacing, tile replacement, and waterproofing to ensure the pool remains safe and visually appealing.

7. Damaged Rendering and Peeling Paint

Signs to Look For:

• Cracked or peeling render
• Damp spots or discoloured walls
• Uneven wall surfaces
• Mould growth on exterior walls

Causes & Risks:

Poorly applied rendering, water infiltration, or age-related wear can lead to deterioration, impacting the building’s aesthetics and structural integrity.

Solution:

Rendering and painting services involve reapplying high-quality render and protective coatings to enhance durability and appearance.

8. Excavation Issues & Poor Drainage

Signs to Look For:

• Water pooling around foundations
• Soil erosion around the building
• Basement dampness or flooding

Causes & Risks:

Poor site preparation and inadequate drainage can lead to erosion, foundation weakening, and water ingress into the property.

Solution:

Excavation works ensure proper grading, drainage installation, and soil stabilisation to prevent water-related damage.

9. Flashing Failures and Water Leakage

Signs to Look For:

• Water stains near windows and doors
• Visible gaps in roof flashing
• Increased energy bills due to heat loss

Causes & Risks:

Flashing is essential for directing water away from vulnerable areas. Damaged or improperly installed flashing can lead to leaks and thermal inefficiency.

Solution:

Flashing works involve inspecting, repairing, or replacing flashing materials to enhance water resistance.

10. Unsafe or Deteriorated Stairs

Signs to Look For:

• Loose or wobbly steps
• Cracked or broken stair treads
• Rusted metal stair components

Causes & Risks:

Staircases endure heavy foot traffic and exposure to elements, leading to wear over time. Unsafe stairs increase the risk of trips and falls.

Solution:

Stairs reconstructions include repairing treads, reinforcing structures, and applying slip-resistant coatings.

Conclusion

Identifying and addressing building issues early can save you from costly repairs and potential safety hazards. At BIRS, we provide expert remedial building services across Sydney and major parts of NSW, ensuring your property remains in top condition.

If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, don’t wait until it’s too late! Contact BIRS today for a professional inspection and tailored remedial solutions.

Visit our website: www.birs.net.au or Call us now for a free consultation.