After handover, widespread roofing issues emerged across the new works, leading to tenant complaints and serious concerns about installation quality.
The builder had lost confidence in the original roofing contractor and urgently needed an independent expert to formally document defects, validate concerns, and create a path to rectification.
- Deliver clear, actionable recommendations aligned with Australian Standards and manufacturer requirements.
- Identify and document workmanship and compliance failures across the roof.
- Provide zone-based reporting for clarity and manageability across the large-scale site.
- Equip the builder with defensible evidence to replace the original roofing contractor.
From hidden defects to strategic action – RIA delivered clarity when it mattered most.
Given the scale of the project, RIA divided the 10,000 m² roof into logical zones to ensure precise, manageable reporting.
Each zone was inspected individually, with defects photographed, mapped, and grouped by location.
The inspection process included:
- Detailed review of flashings, roof sheet fixings, penetrations, and drainage design.
- Assessment against NCC 2022, AS 1562.1, AS 3500.3, and SA HB 39 requirements.
- Development of a zone-based rectification map to streamline contractor handover and remedial works.
The inspection revealed widespread critical issues, including:
- Non-compliant rivet spacing and exposed fasteners.
- Unsealed flashing junctions and back trays at roof penetrations.
- Inadequate overflow provision in box gutter areas.
- Numerous other workmanship and detailing failures across the roof system.
With practical completion already achieved, RIA’s independent documentation was critical in verifying the builder’s concerns and enabling decisive action.
The zone-based reporting allowed the builder to:
- Clearly understand the extent and location of all defects.
- Disengage the original roofing contractor with confidence.
- Appoint a trusted contractor to undertake rectifications using a structured, staged approach.
- Protect the long-term quality of the asset and minimise future warranty disputes.
This project highlights the true value of independent roofing inspections – not just for compliance assurance, but for protecting reputation, managing risk, and delivering a reliable end product.
An independent roof inspector will help you conduct due diligence on a property you’re thinking about buying, assess the workmanship of a new roof you’re installing and extend the life of an existing roof.
Roof Inspection Australia has the skill and experience to protect your building and your finances.
