Altez Engineering specialises in forensic structural inspections and footing investigations across Melbourne and regional Victoria. We investigate the causation of cracking, subsidence, differential movement, and structural damage in residential and commercial buildings.
In Australia, a large proportion of residential dwellings are founded on reactive clay soils. These soils expand and contract in response to changes in moisture content. Although foundations and footings are typically designed in accordance with site classifications and geotechnical reports, changes in site conditions over time can disrupt the soil moisture equilibrium.
Common triggers include:
When soil moisture conditions change unevenly, the result is often differential footing movement, which may lead to:
Many property owners proceed directly to underpinning contractors or builders when cracking appears. While underpinning contractors may be experienced in installation, structural diagnosis should precede rectification.
Without properly identifying and eliminating contributing factors, underpinning alone may be insufficient. If drainage defects, moisture variations, or site issues remain unresolved, movement can recur, resulting in further damage and unnecessary expenditure.
Altez Engineering provides independent structural engineering assessments to determine:
Our forensic structural inspections involve a systematic and evidence-based assessment of the building’s primary structural elements.
Altez Engineering also provides:
Our approach ensures that rectification addresses both the symptom and the cause of movement.
If you are experiencing cracking, subsidence, or suspected foundation movement, early investigation is essential. Proper diagnosis can prevent unnecessary underpinning, reduce costs, and ensure long-term structural stability.
Contact Altez Engineering today for a professional structural inspection and forensic assessment.
