Remedial Waterproofing Solutions & Services

Waterproofing systems can fail for several reasons, including:

1. Poor Installation: Inadequate installation is one of the most common reasons for waterproofing failure. If the waterproofing system is not installed correctly, it may not withstand water pressure or other environmental factors. Poor installation can include incorrectly applying waterproofing products, using inferior quality materials, and not following the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
2. Wear and Tear: Over time, even the most robust waterproofing systems can become damaged or worn out, leaving them vulnerable to leaks and other problems. Exposure to UV rays, changes in temperature and humidity, and mechanical damage can all contribute to wear and tear. Chemical exposure, such as in cleaning products or nearby construction, can damage waterproofing systems.
3. Structural Damage: Structural damage to a building can also lead to waterproofing failure. If the foundation of a building shifts or settles, it can cause cracks in the walls or floors, leading to water intrusion. Similarly, if the building settles unevenly, it can cause the waterproofing system to stretch or tear, leading to leaks.
4. Environmental Factors: Extreme weather conditions, such as heavy rain or flooding, can also cause waterproofing systems to fail. When a building is exposed to prolonged periods of heavy rain or flooding, water can seep into the structure and compromise the waterproofing system.

The impact of waterproofing failure can be severe and may include the following:

1. Structural Damage: Water intrusion can cause significant structural damage to a building, leading to costly repairs. Over time, water can weaken the structure of a building and lead to the rotting, rusting, or warping of building materials. This can compromise the integrity of the building and make it unsafe to occupy.
2. Health Hazards: Water intrusion can also lead to mould growth, which can be hazardous to human health. Mould can cause respiratory problems, allergic reactions, and other health issues. Additionally, water damage can create an environment that promotes the growth of bacteria and other microorganisms, harming human health.
3. Cosmetically Unappealing: In addition to structural and health hazards, water intrusion can cause cosmetic damage, such as peeling paint or wallpaper, which can be unsightly. This can negatively impact the value of the building and create a negative impression on visitors or customers.

Regular waterproofing inspections and maintenance can help prevent more significant problems from occurring down the line. By detecting and addressing minor issues early on, building owners can avoid more extensive and costly repairs later.

It is important to consider local codes of compliance when undertaking waterproofing repairs. In Australia, waterproofing repairs must comply with the Building Code of Australia (BCA). The BCA outlines the requirements for waterproofing in various buildings, including residential and commercial buildings. At MJ Engineering, we can assist with the tender process to find a suitable contractor who adheres to all relevant codes and regulations for waterproofing repairs.

Simply put, water ingress is when water from outside gets into a building. It can happen in many different ways and for many different reasons in a building or property. 

To determine the responsibility of water damage, it is important to find out where the water damage or water leak started.

Common strata property is everything outside of the individual units or apartments. This includes the hallways, lobby, lifts, stairs, car parks, gardens, gyms, swimming pools, and so on. It also includes the walls that connect the units and flats, as well as any other space that isn’t on the building plan for a specific unit. If water damage to a strata property starts here, it usually could be claimed that the owners corporation is responsible for the water damage.

On the other hand, a unit or apartment is a private space in the house. According to NSW Fair Trading, “the basic rule is that everything inside the airspace of the unit, including all internal walls, fixtures, kitchen, bathroom and paint on the walls, is usually the lot and, therefore, the responsibility of the unit/apartment owner.” If the water damage comes from inside a unit or flat, the owner of the unit/apartment is usually responsible for fixing it.