Decks and Verandas Checks - Prevention of Collapse

A number of recent deck collapses is a crucial reminder to anyone holding gatherings on their decks, verandas or balconies, it’s essential that they are maintained to minimise the chance of injuries or at worst fatalities of friends or family.

A number of concerning cases of deck and veranda failure are becoming more and more common, and although the risks increase as the age of the building increases, it is just as important that regular checks are carried out on new construction or owner renovated and extended decks. New buyers should request evidence of building approval and engineer design, to confirm that the deck and verandas are built to the engineering standards, Building Code of Australia and relevant Australian Standards. The structure essentially must be able to withstand the loads and stresses that would be reasonably expected to be placed upon it, and decks and verandas can easily be built to non-conforming standards, a standard or someone’s best guess.

With existing structures, it is crucial that timber is checked for decay, weathering, rusted steel components or brackets, deformation and other defects that could cause failure of a structural component. Concrete balconies need to be checked for cracking, spalling and corroded steel reinforcement.

Watered vegetation and pot plants can accelerate any deterioration, and a group of family and or friends concentrated in one location can instantly cause the structure to fail. In addition to the injuries or possible death as a consequence of any failure in the structure, there will be costs to repair damage and the possibility of legal action that will need to be attended to.

If you are looking at purchasing a house or apartment with a deck or veranda, you might consider engaging a building inspection expert to provide a report specifically on the deck or veranda. Here at Building and Pest inspection services we conduct very thorough Pre-Purchase building inspection and Pre-Purchase pest inspection, deck inspection or New Home Building Inspections which will always include checking the condition of any balconies or decks that are present.

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Call now on 1800466456  or email us to speak to one of our very experienced building and pest inspectors about any queries you may have or to obtain inspection of a deck or veranda.