Building defects are a significant concern for property owners, investors, as well as strata building managers. They can range from superficial damage to serious structural concerns that threaten the integrity, safety, and compliance of a building. Whether you’re dealing with a residential property, commercial space, or industrial facility, it’s crucial to understand the risks associated with building defects and how to address them effectively.

In Australia, the building industry has seen growing scrutiny over the quality of work, non-compliant building products, and subpar construction methods. As a result, building defects have become more common and more litigated. It’s no longer enough to simply notice a crack or a leak—what’s needed is a structured, expert-led approach to identification, documentation, risk assessment, and strategic repair.

At QBM, we specialise in helping property owners across Brisbane and beyond navigate the complexities of building compliance and defect management. Read on as we break down the process step-by-step so you can protect your property, finances, and your tenants.

What Are Building Defects?

Building defects are faults or problems in a building that arise from poor design, construction issues, poor materials, or natural deterioration. These can include:

• Structural cracks in walls or foundations

• Water damage from leaking roofs or windows

• Faulty plumbing or electrical systems

• Defective waterproofing

• Non-compliant cladding or insulation

• Poor workmanship or incomplete work

While some defects are immediately obvious, many go unnoticed until they become a significant problem. That’s why it’s essential to work with a qualified professional who can conduct a thorough inspection and provide an actionable report.

Why Building Defects Should Never Be Ignored

Leaving building defects unaddressed can result in:

• Compromised structural integrity

• Increased repair costs in the long term

• Safety hazards for occupants and visitors

• Reduced property value

• Breaches of legal and insurance requirements

• Potential legal liability for damages or injury

As a property owner, you’re not just morally obligated to fix these issues—you’re legally responsible. Ignoring defects can expose you to litigation and significant financial loss.

Step 1: Request a Building Defects Report from QBM

The first step in resolving any issue is understanding it. That’s where a building defects report comes in. This comprehensive document evaluates the entire condition of your property and identifies all visible and potential defects.

At QBM, our certified inspectors carry out thorough onsite assessments that include:

• A full visual inspection of all accessible areas

• Photographic documentation of any issues

• Notes on severity, location, and likely causes of defects

• A clear, jargon-free summary of findings

This report forms the foundation of your defect management strategy. It allows you to prioritise repairs, allocate budget, and communicate effectively with insurers, tenants, contractors, or stakeholders.

Our reports are regularly updated to reflect ongoing maintenance and repair work, which gives you an updated picture of your property’s health.

Step 2: Conduct a Risk Assessment

After the defect report is complete, the next step is to understand the risks associated with the identified issues. This is where many property owners make the mistake of relying on in-house or untrained professionals. While maintenance staff may spot concerns, they’re not equipped to evaluate risk at a professional level.

QBM’s expert inspectors perform a building defects risk assessment, which includes:

• Analysis of safety hazards (e.g. trip risks, fire hazards, electrical faults)

• Legal and regulatory implications

• Insurance-related risks

• Financial consequences of delayed action

Understanding risk isn’t just about spotting the problem—it’s about anticipating how serious it could become. Our job is to ensure that you’re not caught off guard by a preventable issue that becomes a significant problem.

Step 3: Emergency Management Planning

In some cases, our inspections may uncover urgent and serious building defects. For example, if a balcony is structurally unsound or a cladding material is non-compliant and flammable, immediate action must be taken to protect lives and assets.

QBM works with property owners to develop emergency management plans, which may involve:

• Isolating affected areas

• Alerting occupants to potential dangers

• Coordinating with emergency services if needed

• Fast-tracking immediate repair or mitigation work

This planning is designed to minimise disruption while protecting property users and ensuring compliance with workplace health and safety laws.

Step 4: Strategic Planning for Repairs and Maintenance

Not all building defects require urgent attention, but that doesn’t mean they should be ignored. Once immediate risks are managed, QBM supports you in developing a strategic maintenance and repair plan tailored to your needs and budget.

This includes:

• Prioritising repairs by severity and impact

• Scheduling works to minimise operational downtime

• Planning for long-term property use and potential resale value

• Aligning works with budget forecasts and capital works planning

Strategic planning is essential for property owners seeking to extend the life of their assets while keeping costs manageable. It also prevents you from overcapitalising on unnecessary repairs or deferring work that will cost more down the line.

Step 5: Property Insurance and Disclosure

Building defects can significantly impact your property insurance coverage. If your property is insured, you are legally required to disclose any known defects and the steps you’re taking to address them. Failing to do so can void your policy or result in denied claims.

QBM assists property owners in preparing documentation for insurers, including:

• Submitting the building defects report

• Outlining timelines and plans for repair

• Ensuring compliance with insurer-specific requirements

If your property is currently uninsured or underinsured, we can help you explore coverage options suited to the building’s condition and usage. Our team can guide you through the process and ensure all required compliance documentation is in order.

Why Choose QBM?

At QBM, we offer more than just inspections—we provide peace of mind. With decades of industry experience, a certified team of inspectors, and a client-first approach, we’re trusted by property owners, managers, and investors across Brisbane and Australia.

When you work with QBM, you gain access to:

• Detailed and accurate building defects reports

• Transparent, actionable advice

• Strategic planning support tailored to your property

• A partner who understands legislation, insurance, and risk

• Fast turnaround times and responsive service

Don’t Let Building Defects Cost You

Building defects may seem overwhelming, but with the right support, they are entirely manageable. The key is to act early, rely on qualified experts, and follow a structured process that addresses not just the visible problems but the underlying causes.

At QBM, we’re here to help you protect your investment, ensure compliance, and create safe, valuable spaces for people to live and work.

Contact the team at QBM today to schedule a building defects assessment and take the first step toward total property confidence.