DIY Renovations & Building Risks

---

Building inspections commonly identify renovations, repairs, and alterations that may have been completed to varying standards. While some DIY work is harmless, poor-quality or incomplete renovations can sometimes create significant long-term issues for property owners.

Understanding the risks associated with unprofessional or poorly executed building work is important when purchasing property.

Inspectors frequently identify:

• Poor waterproofing 
• Inadequate drainage 
• Substandard deck construction 
• Incomplete finishing work 
• Poorly installed cladding 
• Inadequate ventilation 
• Unsafe handrails or stairs 
• Unconsented alterations 
• Poor-quality repairs 

Some issues may appear acceptable visually while hidden problems remain concealed.

Poor waterproofing is one of the most common problems associated with DIY renovation work.

Areas commonly affected include:

• Bathrooms 
• Showers 
• Balconies 
• Decks 
• Exterior cladding junctions 
• Window flashings 

Waterproofing failures may eventually lead to:

• Moisture ingress 
• Timber decay 
• Mould growth 
• Structural deterioration 

Some renovations involve structural modifications that may not have been properly designed or consented.

Examples may include:

• Removed walls 
• Altered framing 
• Modified decks 
• Inadequate supports 
• Unapproved additions 

Structural alterations should always be approached carefully.

Fresh paint and cosmetic upgrades do not always indicate a sound building.

Some cosmetic improvements may temporarily conceal:

• Cracking 
• Moisture staining 
• Timber deterioration 
• Mould growth 
• General building defects 

A professional inspection may help identify underlying concerns.

Some building work may require council consent or approval depending on the nature and extent of alterations.

Buyers should always carry out their own due diligence regarding:

• Building consents 
• Council records 
• Compliance documentation 
• Code compliance certificates where applicable 

Experienced inspectors are often better equipped to:

• Recognise signs of poor workmanship 
• Identify common renovation problems 
• Assess visible workmanship quality 
• Recognise moisture-risk areas 
• Recommend further specialist advice where necessary 

Not all renovation issues are immediately obvious during casual property inspections.

A professional building inspection may help buyers:

• Identify visible renovation defects 
• Recognise potential moisture risks 
• Understand maintenance requirements 
• Identify areas requiring further investigation 
• Make more informed property decisions 

Understanding renovation quality can be an important part of assessing overall building condition.

The Master Inspector Association connects experienced inspectors across Australia and New Zealand.

To locate a participating inspector within your area, visit:

Australia:
https://masterinspector.org.au/find-an-inspector

New Zealand:
https://mianz.org.nz/find-building-inspector