The Victorian Building Authority (VBA) has announced funding for further research into moisture ingress in concrete buildings as it looks for “new and innovative solutions” to minimise its impact.

The VBA says it will support a study by researchers from Swinburne University of Technology that aims to address methods to reduce water-related defects by looking at concrete building design, practices and regulatory standards.

Professor Shan Shanmugananthakumar, who will lead the project, says the study will consider various factors that could decrease water ingress, including waterproofing methods, building practices and the performance of balcony materials to prevent damage.

VBA State Building Surveyor Andrew Cialini says the regulator welcomes research that will help it address water defect issues, which remain prevalent.

“Water damage routinely tops the list of defects encountered in buildings and in complaints to the VBA,” Mr Cialini said.

“Reducing the risk of moisture ingress and water damage in Victorian buildings through our regulatory activities is one of the VBA’s focus areas.

“By improving building practices, we also aim to alleviate any health, amenity, and structural integrity impacts for all Victorians.”

The regulator says the support of the study was provided during a second round of research grants, with funding awarded earlier this year to RMIT University and the University of Sydney.