Inspecting decks and balconies

You should inspect your deck at least once a year.

If you own a building with a deck or balcony – whether it is made from timber, steel, concrete or another material – you should ensure it is inspected carefully for:

• decaying timbers
• unstable balustrades
• corrosion and cracking of concrete.

Even small defects, such as rusted or failed fixings (e.g. nails) can compromise structural integrity and result in collapse, potentially causing serious injury or death.

Check all parts of the deck, including concealed elements, to ensure the structure remains safe and to confirm it hasn’t moved due to swaying and twisting under load or from ground movement.

For more detail, read our deck, balcony and window safety guideline (PDF, 1.7MB).

Inspection checklist

Learn what to look out for using the following inspection checklist.

Fixings

• Check fixings and post brackets for bending, stress, fractures and rust.

Nuts, bolts, screws and nails

• Check for rust and replace as soon as possible.

Wooden posts

• Check that the timber is a type that won’t degrade in soil and is treated appropriately.
• Check for wet rot, fungal growth, or spongy or fibrous timber, and fix immediately.

Steel posts

• Check for rust or deterioration around the base where water can pool.

Bracing

• Check for warped, cracked or damaged bracing elements and fixings that are loose or deteriorating.

Bearers and joists

• Check bearers and joists regularly for warping or cracking.

Balustrade anchor points

• Check for deterioration where the balustrade is fixed to the deck or balcony, walls and posts.
• Check that
  • handrails are fastened securely
  • glass balustrades are free from chips or cracks
  • anchor points are free of rust and wear.