We provide fast, council‑compliant assessments and clear next steps for your building.
Call 1300 970 930 to speak to Chris for a free, no‑obligation assessment and a fixed‑price quote.
We are Underpinning Sydney, a team of structural engineers with 20+ years’ experience in building repairs and remedial services.
Our work covers concrete underpinning, resin injection, screw piling, wall crack repairs, subfloor ventilation and retaining wall support.
We use visual checks, diagnostic testing and engineering analysis to confirm a building can carry intended loads safely under the National Construction Code (NCC 2022).
We are fully licensed and insured. We follow council‑compliant methods, minimise disruption and never upsell unnecessary work.
Send photos for a rapid preliminary opinion, or book a site visit for detailed reporting and declared designs that streamline approvals.
Key Takeaways
- We deliver clear, council‑compliant services backed by 20+ years’ experience.
- Safety and compliance guide every assessment and repair pathway.
- We explain findings in plain English and provide fixed‑price quotes.
- Our engineers coordinate reports and declared designs to speed approvals.
- Call 1300 970 930 to speak to Chris for a free, no‑obligation assessment.
Protecting your home’s structure with calm, compliant expertise
Our team gives calm, evidence-based advice so you can act with confidence.
Who we are: Underpinning Sydney’s structural preservation specialists
We are a licensed and insured engineering team with 20+ years’ experience delivering practical building repairs and long‑term solutions.
We offer free assessments, fixed‑price quotes and minimal‑disruption works. Your peace of mind and clear outcomes guide every job.
Safety, structural integrity and peace of mind for NSW homeowners
Our engineers assess load‑bearing elements using materials science, maths and physics. They produce reports, scope of works and declared designs to meet NCC requirements.
We design and deliver underpinning, resin injection, screw piling, wall crack repairs, subfloor ventilation and retaining wall support. These services cover diagnosis through construction oversight and certification, reducing risk for occupants and neighbours.
- Root‑cause repairs that address movement rather than cosmetic fixes.
- Clear inspection plans and practical next steps aligned to council expectations.
- Documentation to support insurance, strata and future sale processes.
- Permanent solutions designed for local soil and coastal conditions.
Structural integrity inspection Sydney
Deciding whether a general building check is enough or an engineer is needed starts with the right evidence.
A building inspector gives a broad review of property condition. They spot visible defects and recommend further assessment when needed.
Choose a structural engineer when cracks, movement, subsidence or deformation suggest risk to the building and to occupant safety. Our engineers examine foundations, slabs, beams and load-bearing walls. They use thermal imaging, ultrasonic testing and drones to find hidden faults.
What we deliver: we confirm safety, find causes of movement and provide clear engineering reports that support council approvals and insurance claims.
- We triage photos for a rapid opinion and advise if a site visit is required.
- Our on-site checks quantify risk and outline engineering options with calculations.
- Safety comes first; we recommend urgent bracing or isolation when needed.
Send photos to start. We explain timeframes, provide fixed-price site inspections and give straightforward information so you can act with confidence.
What our structural inspections cover on site
We carry out thorough on-site checks so you know what needs fixing and why.
Foundations and footings: subsidence, drainage and soil movement
We examine foundations and footings for settlement, heave and poor drainage that may threaten the building. Photos and level checks help us spot early signs of subsidence and water paths.
Load-bearing elements: beams, columns, slabs and walls
Our engineers check beams, columns and slabs for cracking, deflection and inadequate reinforcement. We assess internal and external walls, anchorage details and moisture pathways that can cause defects.
Roof and ceiling integrity: sagging, leaks and ventilation
Roof and ceiling checks look for sagging, water damage and ventilation gaps. These issues speed material decay and affect the overall structure if unchecked.
Material condition and environmental resilience
We identify concrete spalling, corrosion, timber decay and termite activity. We also assess resilience to wind, flood and seismic actions to align with NCC standards.
- Clear, prioritised actions with photos and on‑site notes.
- Monitoring recommendations when change should be tracked over time.
- Remedial designs where work is needed, with minimal disruption to your property.
Common structural issues we diagnose across New South Wales
Seasonal ground movement and coastal exposure create common risks for homes across New South Wales.
Foundations in reactive clays and differential settlement
Reactive clay soils cause seasonal shrink‑swell movement that leads to uneven settlement. This movement often cracks footings, walls and plaster finishes.
We separate cosmetic plaster cracks from structural cracking that shows movement or loss of support. When needed, we offer stabilisation and re‑levelling options.
Concrete spalling in coastal suburbs and high‑rise assets
Salt and humidity accelerate reinforcement corrosion. That process causes concrete to spall and exposes steel to further decay.
We assess condition, quantify risk and recommend targeted repairs to extend service life and maintain safety.
Hairline cracks from drying are usually cosmetic. Wider, stepped or repeating cracks can indicate movement, load change or support loss.
We diagnose cause, explain the risk and suggest pragmatic repairs that avoid unnecessary work.
Ageing buildings and NCC compliance
Many older buildings need evaluation to meet current NCC standards. We identify gaps and plan staged upgrades that balance durability with cost.
- Reactive clays drive seasonal movement and uneven settlement in buildings.
- Coastal conditions increase risk of concrete spalling and corrosion.
- We prioritise safety, clear reporting and honest, engineered solutions so you can act early.
For guidance on foundation failure and stabilisation options see our page on foundation failure.
Proven remedial solutions we design and deliver
We combine proven methods and precise design to stabilise homes and keep disruption to a minimum.
Our services cover underpinning, screw piling, resin injection, wall repairs, subfloor ventilation and retaining wall support. We tailor each solution to your property, soil profile and site access.
Concrete underpinning and screw piling for stabilisation
Underpinning and screw piling restore bearing capacity for footings affected by settlement. Works are designed, scoped and supervised by our engineers to protect the building and occupants.
Resin injection for void filling and re-levelling
Resin injection binds loose soils and fills voids under slabs for precise re‑levelling with minimal excavation. See our resin injection page for more detail: resin injection solutions.
Wall crack repairs and retaining wall support
We repair cracks using compatible materials and reinforce retaining walls to resist soil pressure. Repairs aim to stop movement and protect finishes without unnecessary demolitions.
Subfloor ventilation to control moisture and protect timber
Improved ventilation reduces humidity and lowers risk of timber decay and termite attack. Simple, effective ventilation can extend the life of floor framing and save repair costs.
Engineering reports and declared designs coordination
Our structural engineers produce calculated designs, scopes and specifications. We coordinate declared designs when required by NSW rules and supply reports that support council, NCAT or insurance processes.
- Fixed‑price scopes with clear inclusions and exclusions.
- Work planned to minimise disruption and maintain safety zones.
- On-site supervision to verify quality and complete certification.
| Remedial Option | Primary Benefit | Typical Access | When to Choose |
|---|---|---|---|
| Underpinning / Screw piling | Restore footing support | External/Underfloor | Settlement with reduced bearing |
| Resin injection | Void fill and re‑levelling | Minimal excavation | Localized slab movement |
| Wall crack repair & retaining support | Wall strength and soil restraint | External/Internal | Cracked walls or failing retaining walls |
| Subfloor ventilation | Moisture control for timber | Underfloor access | High humidity or timber decay risk |
Our council-compliant process and certification pathway
From an initial photo review to signed certification, we manage the whole compliance pathway. We keep steps clear and timeframes realistic so you know what will happen and when.
Free no-obligation structural assessment and photo review
Start with photos. Send images and we triage urgency. This quick review tells you if a site visit is needed and the likely scope of work.
Engineering analysis, testing and reporting aligned to NCC
Our engineers use visual checks, thermal imaging and ultrasonic testing to find hidden defects. We produce a clear report that meets NCC 2022 and local council requirements.
Honest scope, fixed-price quote and minimal-disruption works
We give a firm, fixed-price quote. The scope explains what is essential and what is optional. Works are scheduled to reduce disruption and coordinate with neighbours.
Construction oversight and timely certification documentation
- We oversee work to confirm conformity with the design.
- Declared designs and litigation-ready reports are available when needed.
- Certification and final paperwork are supplied promptly to support compliance and insurance.
For pricing detail on engineer reports see our engineer report cost page. Call 1300 970 930 to speak to Chris and book a site inspection.
Transparent costs, timeframes and what affects pricing
We outline clear prices and realistic schedules so you can plan with confidence.
From investigation to remedial works: we provide fixed‑price quotes after an initial assessment. Our fees are broken into inspection, report, design and construction oversight so you know what each stage costs.
Inspection programs may deliver live summaries from site and fast certification once conditions are met. Typical work covers foundations and soil, slabs and load paths. Time depends on build stage and access.
Typical durations and deliverables
- Costs depend on access, building size, complexity and condition, and chosen remedial method.
- Timelines: investigation, design finalisation, procurement and remedial execution.
- We confirm site logistics and safety controls before starting to keep work efficient.
- You receive a clear report with drawings or sketches to brief contractors accurately.
- Our service includes progress updates and measured results so you stay informed.
- Declared designs or council approvals may add time; we manage those steps for you.
- A named inspector manages your project from assessment through completion to ensure continuity.
Transparent variations only: we discuss changes if conditions differ materially from the initial scope. That way your project and budget stay predictable, and the results meet the agreed standard.
Why homeowners choose Underpinning Sydney
Homeowners choose us because we turn complex building problems into clear, practical plans.
We bring 20+ years’ experience and a steady team of licensed, insured engineers.
Our methods comply with council rules and focus on facts, not upselling. We explain options plainly and recommend what is essential for safety and long‑term performance.
Local knowledge matters. Our team understands soils, rainfall patterns and coastal exposure across the region. That knowledge shapes cost‑effective solutions for houses, apartments and strata properties.
We start fast. Send photos for a same‑day review and get a fixed‑price quote when a site visit is needed. Our process gives you clear information, evidence and photos in every report.
- Seasoned engineers and a responsive team who prioritise safety and compliance.
- Practical expertise across underpinning, piling, resin injection, wall repairs and subfloor ventilation.
- Constructable designs that limit disruption and control cost.
- We support properties across houses, apartments and strata with tailored service levels.
| Benefit | What we deliver | Typical start time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rapid photo review | Same‑day guidance and triage | Within 24 hours | Urgent concerns and early advice |
| Engineer report & design | Calculated scope and declared designs | 1–2 weeks | Remedial works and approvals |
| Fixed‑price remedial works | Managed construction and supervision | Schedule dependent | Underpinning, piling, wall repair |
| Monitoring program | Practical checkpoints and data | Immediate setup | Low‑risk change or warranty tracking |
Call 1300 970 930 to speak to Chris or email photos for a fast preliminary assessment. We stand behind our advice and help protect your property with clear, reliable service.
Service areas and project types we support
We work across Greater New South Wales to help owners and managers keep buildings safe, compliant and durable.
Homes, apartments and strata across Greater New South Wales
We support houses, apartments and strata properties across all regions. Our team adapts designs to local soil and coastal conditions.
We provide inspections, designs, remedial works and certification for owners, investors and strata managers.
New builds, renovations and ageing structures
For new builds and renovations we carry out building inspections during construction to confirm compliance with approved designs and standards.
When older buildings show movement or wear, we stage remedial plans to suit budget and occupancy needs. Declared designs for Class 2 buildings are prepared when required and our structural engineers coordinate with builders and certifiers.
- We service all Sydney regions and Greater New South Wales.
- Projects include retaining walls, balconies, slabs and façades.
- We coordinate with builders, strata managers and owners for smooth access and documentation.
- Reports suit lenders, insurers and council requirements across NSW jurisdictions.
Conclusion
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Practical, council‑aligned engineering helps preserve value and reduce ongoing risk.
We restore safety and structural integrity with council‑compliant engineering and clear reports. Regular inspections spot defects early, cut repair costs and protect your investment.
Our service gives free photo reviews, honest scopes and fixed‑price quotes. A dedicated inspector manages your site from assessment to completion and verifies structure performance during and after construction.
Send photos or call 1300 970 930 to speak to Chris and book a site visit. We coordinate structural engineering reports and declared designs so your work meets NCC 2022 and council requirements.