The drawing said one thing and the frame said another
A comparison, not a tolerance argument.
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In short: Connections not matching the engineering, recorded twice on Austral frames nearby.
Why this finding is different
Most disputes about building work turn on tolerance, and tolerance disputes are slow. This one is a comparison. The engineering drawing specifies an arrangement of members, brackets and bolts, and either the frame has it or it does not.
What was recorded
Connection is not matching with engineering, on two separate Austral frame inspections, in May and August. Both were at timber external beams and lintels.
What usually causes it
A substitution made on site for a member that was not delivered, or a bracket used because it was in the ute. Neither is dishonest; both are undocumented.
The legitimate answer
An alternative detail confirmed in writing by the engineer who drew the original. That is a proper resolution. An assurance from a site supervisor that it is equivalent is not.
Why the timing is everything
This is readable at frame stage and unreadable afterwards. Once the wall is lined, establishing what is behind it means opening it.
Written by our local inspection team from work carried out in Edmondson Park. Licensed building practitioners.
