Exhaust fans that blow into the roof space
Bathroom and laundry fans left unducted at handover in Fraser Rise, and what the damp does next.
In short: A fan that discharges into the roof space moves the steam from your shower about a metre, into the one place it should never go.
What a fan is for
Taking moisture from bathrooms, ensuites and laundries out of the building. The NCC and most plans require ducting to outside air.
What we found
In a Fraser Rise home at handover, the fans had no ducts at all. From the roof space you could see the fan housings sitting open in the insulation.
What happens over winter
Warm, wet air meets the cold underside of the roof, condenses and drips back onto the insulation and ceiling. Mould and stains follow.
Insulation goes with it
On the same inspections we often find batts pushed aside by trades, leaving bare ceiling between rooms.
Getting it fixed
Ducts run to a roof vent or eave outlet before settlement. It is quick work for the builder and slow damage for you if missed.
Written by our local inspection team from work carried out in Fraser Rise. Licensed building practitioners, Building & Plumbing Commission registration CDB-U 53425.
