Tiling Defects – Getting Lippy About Lippage: What Is Too Much?

Have you noticed uneven vertical edges between adjacent tiles on your floor? That visible height difference is known as lippage — and while some degree of lippage can be unavoidable, excessive lippage may amount to defective workmanship.

What Is Lippage?

Lippage occurs when one edge of a tile sits higher than the tile next to it, creating an uneven surface. It is most noticeable:

• With large-format tiles;
• On floors with falls toward a drain or waste;
• On highly reflective or polished tile surfaces and;
• Where lighting (natural or artificial) hits at a low angle.

While minor variations can occur even with proper installation, excessive lippage can present both aesthetic concerns and potential trip hazards.

What Do the Standards Say?

Under Australian Standards – AS 3958.1 – 2007 (Guide to the Installation of Ceramic Tiles), the allowable tolerance for lippage between standard tiles is generally no more than 2mm.

This benchmark is commonly referenced in building defect disputes across Australia. If the lippage exceeds 2mm, it may indicate non-compliant workmanship — though the specific circumstances of the installation must always be considered.

When Lippage Is Not Necessarily a Defect?

It is important to understand that not all visible lippage is the result of poor workmanship. Other contributing factors may include:

• Tile warpage (inherent manufacturing variation);
• An irregular floor surface;
• Compound floor falls and;
• Lighting conditions that exaggerate shadow lines.

In some cases, what appears unacceptable under certain lighting conditions may still fall within industry tolerances.

When Should You Be Concerned?

You may have grounds for further investigation if:

• The lippage exceeds 2mm;
• The unevenness creates a trip hazard;
• The finish is inconsistent with contractual specifications and;
• The workmanship falls below what a reasonable person would consider acceptable.

What Can You Do?

If you are dissatisfied with tiling work:

1. Raise the issue promptly with your builder — they hold primary responsibility for construction workmanship;
2. If necessary, seek assistance from a professional body such as the Ceramic Tile Association of Australia or;
3. Obtain independent expert advice to assess whether the work meets Australian Standards.

How We Can Help

Building defect disputes can be complex. Determining whether lippage constitutes a minor cosmetic issue or a breach of statutory warranties requires careful assessment of:

• Contractual terms
• Applicable Australian Standards
• Building tolerances
• Expert evidence

If you are concerned about defective tiling work in your home or development project, feel free to contact the team at Vogt Legal to provide clear advice on your rights, remedies, and next steps.