Our weathertightness reports are compliant with NZS 4306:2005 and focus on the external building envelope. We use a combination of visual expertise and advanced technology to assess the following risk factors:
Weathertightness Reports
Specialist risk assessments to protect your home from “leaky building” syndrome.
Why Weathertightness is Critical for Auckland Homes
In New Zealand, weathertightness refers to a building’s ability to prevent water from penetrating the exterior envelope. Auckland has a significant number of properties built between the late 1980s and mid-2000s that may be at higher risk of moisture ingress due to design trends and construction methods of that era.
At HS Building Inspections, we provide specialised Weathertightness Risk Reports. These are more than just a standard check; they are a methodical evaluation of a home’s ability to resist the elements, specifically designed to identify early warning signs of “leaky building” syndrome before they lead to structural decay.
Our Specialist Assessment Process
Cladding and Joinery Analysis
We examine the type and condition of your exterior cladding, with a particular focus on monolithic systems like stucco or fibre cement. We check for:
Hairline cracks or splits in the cladding surface
Improperly installed or missing flashings around windows and doors
Deteriorated sealants at critical junctions and penetrations
High-Risk Design Features
Certain architectural styles are more susceptible to water ingress. Our reports carefully evaluate:
Eaves: Properties with narrow or no eaves provide less protection to walls
Complex Roofs: Checking for adequate drainage at internal gutters and parapets
Decks and Balconies: Inspecting enclosed balconies and cantilevered decks for correct waterproofing and slope
Non-Invasive Moisture Verification
As with all our services, we use high-specification thermal imaging cameras and non-invasive moisture meters. This allows us to detect elevated moisture levels behind the cladding without damaging the property.
Who Needs a Weathertightness Report?
Buyers of Plaster-Clad Homes: Many banks now require a specialist weathertightness report before approving lending or refinancing on a monolithic home.
Sellers Seeking Transparency: Providing a professional report can remove the stigma often associated with certain building styles.
Homeowners (Maintenance / Refinancing): Recommended every 12 months for high-risk properties to catch issues early.
Comprehensive and Transparent Reporting
If we identify a risk, we do not just provide a list of problems. We provide a roadmap for protection. Your report will include:
Risk Matrix Assessment: Clear breakdown of the property’s vulnerability based on design and location
Photographic Evidence: High-resolution images of cracks, moisture staining, or thermal anomalies
Prioritised Recommendations: Guidance on immediate repairs and long-term maintenance
Protect Your Biggest Asset
The cost of a weathertightness inspection is negligible compared to the potential remediation costs of a leaky home.
Why work with us
- NZiBi Registered Building Inspectors
- ITC Certified Thermographers
- We offer independent reports with no “vested interest” in finding or hiding problems
- Our commitment to you is to provide a professional, thorough service
- We can make the invisible visible
- Value for money
- Complete customer satisfaction - that's our guarantee
