GLOSSARY · ADELAIDE
Tile lippage
Plain English
Uneven height between adjacent tiles. A workmanship defect that can indicate poor installation or substrate movement.
Tile lippage is the height difference where two tiles meet. Small amounts (under 1mm) are within tolerance. Large lippage indicates poor installation, uneven substrate, or movement after laying.
In bathrooms, lippage can create a trip hazard and is a sign the tiler didn't take care. In kitchens or floors, it's both a finish defect and a maintenance issue (lippage edges chip easily).
Inspectors will note lippage but typically leave assessment of whether it's a defect requiring remediation to the conveyancer and buyer to negotiate.