Apex Development Co
Residential Underpinning and Structural Stabilisation
structural · South West Sydney, NSW · 2025

Residential Underpinning and Structural Stabilisation

A technically challenging structural project involving foundation movement and cracking, referred to Apex after other builders declined the job. A registered structural engineer designed the underpinning solution and Apex led the build, stabilising the property while maintaining occupant safety and the integrity of the existing structure throughout.

The challenge

The job three other builders would not take on

The homeowners had already been told by other builders that the movement and cracking in their home meant demolition was the only option. Apex took a different approach: a full structural assessment by a registered engineer came first, before anything was quoted. That assessment found the foundation could be stabilised with an engineered underpinning solution rather than a full rebuild. Because the builder read the engineering rather than working around it, there was no gap between the design and how it was carried out on site, and no guesswork. Certification was provided independently. The result: the home was stabilised, the occupants stayed safe throughout, and the existing structure was preserved.

Planned vs actual timeline

3 weeks over
Planned
14 weeks
Actual
17 weeks

Additional soil movement was found once excavation began, requiring redesigned pier depths and an extra 2 weeks of remediation. Engineered steel bearers were delayed a further week by a supplier backlog. Council also raised one request for additional structural certification that we had not anticipated, adding another week.

Before, during, after

How the job progressed

Visible cracking and foundation movement before assessment.before
Visible cracking and foundation movement before assessment.
Engineered underpinning piers under construction.during
Engineered underpinning piers under construction.
Stabilised structure with finishes reinstated.after
Stabilised structure with finishes reinstated.

Have a job like this?

If another builder has told you it cannot be done, get a second opinion backed by an engineering assessment before you commit to anything.