The dilapidation survey is also known as the pre-construction survey. Conducted by a Building Inspector it is the process of inspection of the existing structure of a building or structure before any demolition or development. Prominent defects in the forms of cracks, settlement, water seepage, movement, distortion, spilling concrete, subsidence or any other building defects must be noted with photographs and documented in this process.
If the nearby construction causes damage, how to prove it?
Any building work such as renovation, construction, demolition and road works can easily let nearby structures to get damaged or deteriorated. Cracked brickwork, water ingress or even damage to a landscape can bring about a situation of costly repairs. But how do you prove it?
Dilapidation Report is the answer. It is a property inspection report undertaken to provide you a visual assessment of the cosmetic and structural defects which can be related to the movement of a structure.
Experts are appointed to assess the condition of this property before commencement of the construction job. Their job mostly is compiling photographic evidence of every detail of the site prior to construction. The expert architects also assess the condition of the property, when the construction is ongoing or has been completed.
When is such a report required?
The dilapidation survey is done to measure the existing condition of adjoining buildings, including the infrastructure before the entire superstructure work.
- For developers and contractors
Prior to any demolition, excavation, renovation, piling work or construction of a new development this survey is done. This formal survey can save a developer millions or thousands of dollars worth claim from the third parties.
- For property owners
Before renovation, additions and alteration, construction, reconstruction or demolition work carried out in any neighboring area this survey is done. It is also important prior to any underground construction work carried out in surrounding areas of your property.
Benefits of a Dilapidation Survey
- Inspection of the building and property by a building inspector is undertaken before the start of any nearby construction work.
- Comprehensive report of pre-existing defects so the new ones can be easily identified.
A dilapidation report is evidence of the conditions of a building before and after a detailed construction job, showing the existing conditions of a building. It is a certificate of wellness which benefits the property developers, contractors as well as the owners of neighbouring buildings.