11/02/2026
The construction sector does not always produce the best products; unfortunately, sometimes the project outcome looks a little more like this.
At Overstone Pty Ltd, we are regularly engaged by homeowners when something does not feel right with their renovation or addition. In this Brisbane project, a recently constructed bathroom and laundry addition was inspected after concerns were raised. What we found was not a collection of minor defects, but a series of fundamental construction failures that left the homeowner with no realistic option other than an almost complete removal and rebuild.
Our inspection identified issues beginning at the ground up, including an original slab constructed without a vapour barrier and incorrect slab heights. Externally, fibre cement cladding had been left unpainted and was already affected by mould, with installation too close to the surrounding soil. The trims were poorly installed, with incorrect fixings and no sealing or finishing. Structurally, the framing was out of plumb and inadequate to properly support the beams, and the roof tie-downs were insufficient. Internally, waterproofing and tiling were non-compliant, tile adhesive coverage in shower areas was well below acceptable standards, and finishing works such as flexible sealants and plastering fell short of minimum requirements.
When defects are this widespread and embedded into the structure, patch repairs are no longer appropriate. The risks, costs, and uncertainties associated with attempting to salvage the work often outweigh the reality of starting again properly.
In this case, we worked closely with the homeowner to inspect and document each issue, prepare a comprehensive Built It Right Report for their discussions with the QBCC and escalating parties.
For homeowners undertaking renovations or additions, this project underscores the importance of independent inspections and early intervention. Identifying problems sooner can prevent them from becoming far more expensive and disruptive later.
The team at Overstone are specialists in the world of construction compliance, helping homeowners understand what has gone wrong, what the risks are, and what needs to be done to put things right.
Overstone Pty Ltd
www.overstone.com.au
1300 683 778 | [email protected]
Building Consultancy | Quantity Surveying | Project Management | Construction Services
