A remedial builder repairs existing buildings that have defects or have worn down over time. That covers concrete cancer, failed waterproofing, cracking, facade damage and structural problems. We don’t build from scratch. We find out why something has failed, fix the cause, and then repair the damage so the building is safe, watertight and compliant again.
If your building is leaking, cracking or dropping bits of concrete, you probably need one now rather than later. At Lloyd Corp Constructions, this work makes up most of what we do across Sydney. Here’s how it works and how to tell when it’s time.
What Does a Remedial Builder Do, Day to Day?
A general builder starts with an empty block. At Lloyd Corp Constructions, Most of our jobs follow the same path:
- Inspection and diagnosis. We look at the damage and, more importantly, at what’s causing it. A stained ceiling might trace back to a balcony membrane three floors up.
- Scope and design. We work with engineers to set out the repair method. On many strata buildings in NSW, this needs formal designs before work can start.
- Repairs. The physical work: cutting out bad concrete, replacing membranes, injecting cracks, strengthening structure.
- Handover. Documentation, warranties and a clear record of what was done, which strata committees need for their files.
Remedial Building Works Explained: The Common Jobs
| Problem | What we do | Why it matters |
| Concrete cancer / spalling | Remove damaged concrete, treat or replace rusted steel, reinstate with repair mortar | Stops corrosion spreading and concrete falling |
| Waterproofing failure | Strip and replace membranes on balconies, roofs, planters and wet areas | Water damages structure and the units below |
| Cracking | Epoxy or polyurethane crack injection and sealing | Restores strength or closes water paths |
| Facade defects | Repair render, brickwork, sealants and cladding | Safety for people below, plus kerb appeal |
| Structural damage | Strengthen slabs, beams and columns | Keeps the building carrying its loads safely |
| Heritage fabric | Like-for-like repairs using matching materials | Protects character and meets heritage controls |
How It’s Different From General Building
New builds follow a plan from day one. Remedial work often doesn’t. You only see the full extent once you open things up, so the builder has to read the building as they go. Residents are usually still living there, too. That changes how Lloyd Corp Constructions stage the work, manage noise and keep access open.
Signs Your Building Needs Remedial Work
Some problems are obvious. Others creep up. Watch for:
- Rust stains or bubbling on concrete, especially balcony edges and soffits
- Chunks of concrete falling, or steel reinforcement showing through
- Cracks wider than a hairline, or cracks that keep growing
- Damp patches, mould or white powdery salts on walls and ceilings
- Leaks after heavy rain around windows, ceilings or balcony doors
- Tiles or render that sound hollow when tapped
- Doors and windows that suddenly stick
One sign doesn’t always mean a big job. But none of these get better on their own. Concrete cancer, for example, keeps spreading once water reaches the steel, and the repair bill grows with it.
When Should You Call a Remedial Builder?
The best time is before the damage becomes urgent. Common triggers we see:
- A building inspection or defects report flags problems
- Your strata capital works plan says it’s time to address ageing elements
- Owners keep reporting leaks or cracks
- You’re buying, selling or refinancing and need issues dealt with
- Something has already failed, like falling concrete or water through a ceiling
If anyone’s safety is at risk, call straight away. Make-safe work can happen quickly while the full repair is planned.
What to Expect When You Engage Us
- Site visit. We inspect, take photos and talk through what we see.
- Engineering input. Where needed, an engineer specifies the repair.
- Clear quote and scope. You’ll know what’s included and what could change once surfaces are opened up.
- Works program. We plan around residents, access and weather.
- Completion and records. Photos, documentation and warranties for your files.
For Class 2 apartment buildings in NSW, the Design and Building Practitioners Act applies to a lot of remedial work on things like waterproofing, structure and the building enclosure. It requires regulated designs from a registered design practitioner and a registered building practitioner to carry out the work. Lloyd Corp Constructions tell you upfront whether your job falls under these rules.
Choosing a Remedial Building Company
Price matters, but it shouldn’t be the only filter. Before you sign, check that the remedial building company you’re talking to:
- Holds the right NSW licence and insurance
- Has done similar work on similar buildings, ideally occupied strata sites
- Gives you a written scope, not a one-line quote
- Explains the cause of the defect, not just the fix
- Can show references or recent projects
A good remedial builder should make the problem clearer, not more confusing.
FAQs
Is a remedial builder the same as a structural engineer?
No. The engineer diagnoses the problem and designs the repair. Lloyd Corp Constructions carry out the work. On most jobs the two work closely together.
How long does remedial work take?
It depends on the scope. A few balcony repairs might take weeks. Facade or concrete cancer work across a whole building can run for months, usually done in stages.
Can residents stay in the building during works?
Usually, yes. Lloyd Corp Constructions stage the work, manage access and keep noise to set hours. Some units may need short periods of limited balcony or room access.
Who pays for remedial work in a strata building?
Generally, the owners corporation pays for common property repairs, often from the capital works fund or a special levy. Work on lot property can fall to the individual owner. Your strata manager and by-laws will confirm the split.
Does every crack need a remedial builder?
No. Fine surface cracks are often cosmetic. Cracks that widen, let water in or appear with rust stains should be looked at by a professional.