Perth’s construction landscape continues to expand, and with rapid building comes an unwelcome guest: defects. Some seep quietly into a project like uninvited shadows, while others stand out with the subtlety of a cracked foundation. As we move through 2025, certain issues have risen to the top of the defect leaderboard, costing homeowners time, money and peace of mind.
Fortunately, third-party specialists like 360 Advisory Services are helping owners, developers and builders keep projects aligned with compliance, quality and confidence.
Let’s explore the most common construction defects currently surfacing in Perth homes.
1. Structural Movement and Slab Cracking
Perth’s soil — especially the city’s notorious clay pockets — expands and contracts like a living tide. This natural shift can lead to foundation cracking, uneven floors and misaligned walls.
Homeowners often see hairline fractures long before the full story unfolds. A structural inspection can help reveal the real cause and prevent major repair expenses down the line.
2. Inadequate Waterproofing
Waterproofing remains Perth’s most expensive and widely found construction defect in 2025. Leaking showers, balcony failures and damp walls are the usual suspects.
A comprehensive building defect inspection can identify membrane issues early, keeping moisture out and structural integrity in.
3. Roofing and Gutter Failures
Improper installation, poor drainage and flashing mistakes frequently show up in new builds. Perth’s winter storms are unforgiving, and even small defects can lead to internal leaks.
Specialists conducting new home inspections can detect roof issues before water finds a way in.
4. Plumbing Defects and Poor Drainage
Undersized pipes, incorrectly installed fixtures and blocked drains appear in many 2025 inspection reports.
Building inspectors often test plumbing performance during practical completion inspections to ensure the home is ready for handover.
5. Electrical Non-Compliance
Loose wiring, non-compliant installations and poor switchboard layouts continue to appear in multi-unit developments and single homes alike.
A compliance inspection ensures all works meet regulatory standards before occupation.
6. Poor Workmanship in Finishes
From uneven tiling to misaligned cabinetry and cracked cornices, aesthetic issues may seem small but dramatically impact long-term satisfaction.
A detailed quality assurance inspection helps builders and owners maintain premium standards throughout the build.
7. Insufficient Termite Protection
With WA’s termite activity climbing, incomplete or poorly applied protection systems are a growing problem.
During pre-purchase inspections, inspectors often uncover missing barriers or untreated zones that pose long-term risks.
8. Boundary and Setback Compliance Issues
Incorrect boundary measurements or setback miscalculations can trigger costly legal headaches for homeowners and developers.
Independent professionals offering construction compliance reviews ensure all works align with planning requirements before it’s too late.
9. Defective Brickwork and Rendering
Mortar issues, discolouration, hollow render patches and cracking have become increasingly common.
A stage inspection during brickwork helps identify problems early and avoid costly remediation.
Why These Defects Are Rising in 2025
Several industry factors are contributing:
- Skill shortages across Perth
• Increased building volume
• Pressure on contractors
• Supply-chain disruptions affecting materials
These conditions make independent oversight more valuable than ever.
Protect Your Home with Independent Expertise
Construction defects often begin quietly but grow loudly. Whether you’re building, buying or managing a major development, partnering with an independent specialist ensures clarity and compliance every step of the way.
To protect your investment, book an inspection with 360 Advisory Services today.
