Dilapidation (Condition) Report

What is a dilapidation report?

A Dilapidation (Condition) Report is a document that records the condition of a property before construction work. This report is used to document any pre-existing damage to the property, as well as any damage that occurs during the construction process. It serves as a record of the property's condition and can be used to assess whether any repairs or compensation are necessary.

The building dilapidation report identifies any visible cracks or movement within the property and its surroundings including the driveway, paths, and fences. Photographic evidence of defects is included in the report.

This type of report is normally requested by a construction company and or builder before substantial works are carried out. A Dilapidation/Condition Report provides the contractor with an independent record of any adjacent property's condition before the commencement of building works. The report may be used by the contractor as evidence if there is any dispute between any property owner claiming that the contractor’s works have resulted in damage to their property.

Find out more about dilapidation reports and what is included. 

Should I get a dilapidation report?

A Dilapidation (Condition) Report is typically required by property owners, developers, and contractors who are planning to undertake construction work in close proximity to other properties. It can also be part of local council requirements. The report acts as a legal record for the property owner and contractor, and so can reduce potential issues down the track. Having a clear ‘before’ picture of the state of a property before you begin work can ensure there’s no confusion about the effects of the works, once they’re completed.

If you plan to have heavy machinery on or near the site, for example, getting a dilapidation report completed beforehand means that you can’t be held accountable for that crack in your neighbour’s driveway that they’ve never had fixed. Without the report, they could claim that it happened during your work, and you could have to pay for the repairs.

Of course, you can always take before and after pics yourself, but without a dilapidation report carried out by an independent building inspector, these pictures will not be considered a legal document. By engaging a building consultant to carry out the condition report, you are also getting their experience and knowledge of the industry.

 

Special Purpose Inspection

Often defects can appear without explanation. If you have identified an item of concern within your property and would like a second opinion from a suitably licensed and qualified inspector then you should get a special-purpose inspection.

Our inspectors will inspect the area of concern and provide you with an independent opinion and recommendations as to your next step.

Defects may include, but are not limited to:

• Cracks in walls
• Subsidence
• Excessive moisture
• Ceiling deflection/deformation

What does a Dilapidation (Condition) Report include?

A Dilapidation (Condition) Report is a written and photographic report which typically includes detailed information about the condition of a property, including:

• Detailed photographs and descriptions of the property's current condition, including any existing damage or defects.

• A description of the surrounding area and any potential hazards that may be present.

• Measurements of the property, including floor plans and elevations.

• Information about the type of construction and materials used in the property.

• Any recommendations for repairs or maintenance that may be necessary.

• Information about the property's age, and any previous repairs or renovations that have been done.

• A detailed assessment of the property's structural condition, including the foundation, walls, roof, and other key components.

• Details of any services connected to the property such as electricity, water and gas.

• A schedule of conditions and any necessary repairs that need to be done before, during, and after the construction process.

The comprehensive report is usually prepared by a qualified and experienced building inspector or surveyor, following the standards and regulations of the local authorities.

What happens if damage is found during a Dilapidation (Condition) Report?

 If a structural defect is found during a Dilapidation (Condition) Report, the property owner, developer, or contractor may be required to make repairs or compensate the affected parties. The report is used to assess the extent of the damage and determine whether any repairs or compensation are necessary. If damage is found, it is important to address it as soon as possible to prevent further damage from occurring to avoid expensive disputes..

What should I do next?

Depending on your scope of work and where your property is situated about others, you may not be legally required to obtain a dilapidation report. However, we consider them an essential part of any construction project and highly recommend having one done no matter your project to protect yourself from litigious neighbours and unnecessary costs and stress.

In some situations, the report will be a requirement by your local authority to get development approval, so it’s a good idea to get your report arranged sooner rather than later in any circumstance.

You can get a copy of a sample dilapidation report here or get in touch with one of our experts today to arrange a time or discuss getting a report for your project.