Damage potential to residential structures due to ground movement

The residential construction sector represents a substantial part of the building industry in Australia. However, builders and owners often become involved in issues related to defects and damage in new homes. Addressing complaints and resolving disputes places a significant burden on all parties involved. This paper presents the findings from a preliminary research project which seeks to identify and quantify the causes of damage. These findings represent part of an ongoing research project which aims to identify means of improving current practices to reduce the frequency and severity of defects in the domestic construction industry. In particular the paper highlights conflicts between assumptions in design standards and consumer expectations. Further, basic mechanisms of damage to houses are summarised with specific focus future uncertainty arising from climate change. Finally, damage trends are presented based on analysis of a database of inspection reports of houses built post 1996