Uneven Floors? Why It Might Be a Bigger Issue Than You Think
- Shane Browne
- Aug 20
- 2 min read
Noticing sloping, sagging, or uneven floors in your Christchurch home? It might seem like a cosmetic quirk—but it could point to something more serious. At Manetain Building Services, we often see uneven flooring as one of the first visible signs of deeper structural issues.
Here’s what to look for, what it might mean, and when to consider a building inspection.
What Causes Uneven Floors?
While it’s normal for older homes to shift slightly over time, significant floor unevenness may be a symptom of:
Foundation movement or subsidence
Damaged or rotting floor joists
Excess moisture in the subfloor
Inadequate ventilation or drainage
Poor construction or unconsented alterations
In Canterbury, past seismic activity has also left many homes with hidden damage—even if repairs were carried out.
Signs to Watch For
Uneven floors don’t always look dramatic. Some subtle signs to watch out for include:
Doors that stick or won’t close properly
Gaps between skirting boards and the floor
Cracks appearing in interior walls
Furniture that leans or rocks on what appears to be a flat surface
A general “tilted” feeling when walking across the room
If you’re noticing one or more of these issues, it’s worth having your home assessed.
What We Check in a Building Inspection
At Manetain, our non-invasive inspections include a close look at the interior flooring and accessible subfloor space. While we don’t carry out floor level surveys, we do assess for:
Visible signs of sloping or sagging
Moisture damage or rot in the subfloor
Signs of structural movement
Foundation stability (where visible)
Any risk factors that may be worsening the issue
If a more detailed investigation is needed, we’ll clearly outline next steps and refer you to the right specialist.
Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It
Even if the floor feels “mostly fine,” unevenness can affect the overall value and safety of your home. If you’re planning to sell, renovate, or rent your property, leaving it unchecked could cost you later—either in missed negotiation opportunities or expensive remedial work.
Book an Inspection in Christchurch or Canterbury
Don’t wait until small issues turn into big ones. A building inspection from Manetain can help identify the cause of uneven flooring and give you clear, honest advice on what to do next.
With over 25 years of experience, we’ve seen it all—and we’re here to help.
📞 027 345 3138