A dilapidation inspection provides a thorough, timestamped record of a property's existing condition before nearby construction, excavation, or demolition work commences. This documented baseline is essential for protecting property owners, developers, and neighbours from disputed liability if damage occurs during works.
Scope of Inspection
- External Walls & Facades
- Internal Walls & Ceilings
- Floors & Subfloor
- Windows & Doors
- Roof & Guttering
- Driveways, Paths & Fencing
- Outbuildings & External Structures
Existing cracks, render condition, masonry, brickwork, and surface finishes
Plaster cracks, cornices, paint finish, and any pre-existing damage
Condition of floor coverings, subfloor framing, and any movement or unevenness
Frame alignment, glass condition, seals, and ease of operation
Roofing material condition, ridge lines, gutters, downpipes, and flashings
Concrete or paved surfaces, boundary fencing, retaining walls, and garden structures
Garages, sheds, decking, pergolas, and any ancillary structures
Inspection Methodology
- Comprehensive photographic and written record of all pre-existing conditions
- Crack monitoring notations including width, length, and type classifications
- Moisture meter readings where relevant to identify pre-existing damp
- Review of surrounding site conditions that may influence structural movement
Report Includes
- 1. Timestamped photographic evidence of all inspected areas
- 2. Written description of pre-existing defects, cracks, and damage
- 3. Crack classification and condition ratings for key structural elements
- 4. Delivered with photos within 24 hours of inspection
Why a Dilapidation Inspection is Critical
- 1. Establishes an indisputable baseline before construction begins — protecting you from unfair damage claims
- 2. Provides evidence if new cracks or damage appear during or after nearby works
- 3. Required or strongly recommended by many councils and building authorities as part of the development approval process
Why It Matters
- 1. Avoid costly disputes over who is liable for post-construction damage
- 2. Protect your property value and structural integrity throughout nearby works
- 3. Provides peace of mind for both property owners and developers
Process & Transparency
- 1. Duration: typically 1–2.5 hours, depending on property size and number of structures
- 2. We encourage you to be present during the inspection to raise any areas of concern
- 3. Report turnaround: same-day or within 24 hrs
frequently asked questions
Clear answers to your questions
A dilapidation inspection is a formal, documented assessment of a property's existing condition — including any cracks, defects, or wear — carried out before nearby construction, excavation, or demolition work begins. It creates an objective record that can be referenced if damage is alleged after works are complete.
Both property owners and developers can benefit. If you're a neighbour to a construction project, a dilapidation report protects you from being held responsible for damage you didn't cause. If you're a developer or builder, it protects you from unfair claims by proving a defect existed before your works commenced.
A standard dilapidation inspection typically covers:
- External walls, facades, and render
- Internal walls, ceilings, and cornices
- Floors and subfloor structures
- Windows, doors, and frames
- Roof condition and guttering
- Driveways, paths, retaining walls, and fencing
- Garages, sheds, and external structures
The inspection must be completed before construction or excavation works begin — ideally as soon as you are notified of a nearby development. Once works start, the opportunity to establish a pre-works baseline is lost. Book as early as possible to ensure your property is protected.