Stair tread/floorboard cracking and flexing when stepped on - Advice needed

Hi all,

Looking for advice on a staircase issue at my investment property in NSW.

During a routine inspection, the managing agent noticed cracking/splitting on some of the stair treads/floorboards. The affected tread also flexes when pressed by hand and when stepped on, so I am concerned it may not have enough solid support underneath.

The floorboards were installed shortly before I purchased the property, so they are relatively new. Unfortunately, the vendor no longer has the invoice. I have contacted the flooring business to create a paper trail and ask whether they can confirm the scope/date of the work, but I have not had a response yet.

I am trying to work out:

Does flexing like this usually point to poor installation, lack of adhesive/support, a substrate issue, or a problem with the actual stair tread?

What kind of trade should I get to inspect this properly: carpenter, stair specialist, builder or flooring installer?

Should I ask for a “make safe” repair first before deciding on a full repair?

If the tread is unsupported underneath, what would a proper repair usually involve?

Is it worth continuing to chase the original flooring company, or should I just get an independent report and repair it?

I do not want to delay a safety repair, especially because it is a rental, but I also want to preserve evidence in case the issue turns out to be defective installation.

Photos attached. I am also trying to get a short video showing the tread flexing under pressure.

Many thanks.

EDIT: New information from flooring business.

“Unfortunately, due to the subfloor's unevenness, the flooring does not have a warranty (item 11). Please see the attachment.

The existing tile has about 8-10mm uneveness and cracks, Client might feel some movements, creaking sound and uneven underfoot after flooring is done due the subfloor levelling is not applied. FloorVenue is not responsible for any future damage occurred due to subfloor unevenness or level issue.”

u/Excellent-Jello — 1 month ago
▲ 14 r/sydney

High Value Rug Stores in Sydney

Hi all,

Can anyone recommend me some high value rug stores in Sydney (not IKEA)?

After purchasing a flat woven, washable rug from Ruggable and being completely disappointed in its colour and texture, we want to only purchase rugs we can see and feel in stores.

We live in Parramatta but hear there are some good places in Auburn or perhaps up in Castle Hill?

Thanks in advance for your recommendations!

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u/Excellent-Jello — 1 month ago

Front legs or all legs on rug?

Hi everyone,

I’m trying to decide between two rug sizes for my living room and would love some advice.

The two options are:

Option 1: 275 x 365 cm
This size has the front legs of both sofas on the rug, but the back legs are off.

Option 2: 305 x 425 cm
This size allows all legs of the sofas to sit on the rug, so the whole seating area feels more anchored.

The larger rug is about $500 more expensive, so I’m trying to work out whether the upgrade is actually worth it visually and proportionally.

The room has two sofas, including a chaise, and I’m going for a warm mid-century/Japandi style. I’ve attached floor plan views and 3D mockups of both options. Please ignore the repeating pattern in the rug on the 3D mockup.

Would you choose the smaller rug with front legs on, or the larger rug with all legs on? Is the larger one worth the extra $500?

Thanks in advance!

Also, who can spot the cat? :D

u/Excellent-Jello — 2 months ago