The Importance of Dilapidation Reports Before Construction

The Importance of Dilapidation Reports

Dilapidation reports are essential documents that record the condition of properties before and after adjacent construction work. They protect all parties - the developer, the builder, the neighbours, and the engineer - by providing an objective baseline against which any construction-related damage can be assessed.

What Is a Dilapidation Report?

A dilapidation report is a detailed photographic and written record of the existing condition of structures adjacent to a proposed construction site. It documents existing cracks, defects, settlement, and any other features that could be confused with construction-related damage.

When Are They Required?

In NSW, dilapidation reports are commonly required by councils as a condition of development consent. They are typically required for properties within the zone of influence of excavation works - generally within a distance equal to the depth of excavation, plus a margin.

What Should Be Included

A comprehensive dilapidation report should include a description of each property surveyed, detailed photographs of all existing defects, crack width measurements using a crack gauge, notes on the general condition of structural elements, and the date of the survey and the qualifications of the surveyor.

Why They Matter

Without a pre-construction dilapidation report, it is virtually impossible to determine whether damage to adjacent properties was caused by the construction works or was pre-existing. This can lead to expensive and protracted disputes between developers, builders, and neighbours.

Post-Construction Reports

Post-construction dilapidation reports compare the condition of adjacent properties after construction with the baseline recorded before construction. Any new damage is documented and assessed to determine whether it is likely to have been caused by the construction works.

Our Recommendation

At ACSES Engineers, we strongly recommend comprehensive dilapidation surveys before any construction project that involves excavation or heavy construction near existing structures. The cost is minimal compared to the protection it provides.