When undertaking any construction and development projects, it is crucial to consider and minimise any unintended consequences for neighbouring properties. Construction and development work can cause vibrations that may lead to damage that may go unnoticed until it’s too late. This is where a professional dilapidation report becomes crucial.

Read on as we discuss the dilapidation report process undertaken by QBM, a leading company specializing in property compliance inspections, to provide comprehensive pre- and post-construction assessments.

The Pre-Construction Professional Dilapidation Report Process

The importance of a dilapidation report before the commencement of any construction project cannot be understated. Before we start the process, we at QBM take a proactive approach to ensure a thorough understanding of the property’s current condition. Our process involves:

1. Complete Organisation of Inspection Program:
   • We at QBM work closely with contractors to organise a structured and thorough inspection program. This coordination ensures that all necessary inspections align perfectly with the timeline of the construction.
2. On-Site Auditing for Defect Identification:
   • Our trained professionals at QBM conduct on-site audits. We meticulously examine the property to identify any existing defects. This is important for establishing a baseline of the condition of the property and for predicting any potential damage during and after construction.
3. A Detailed Report with Photographic Evidence:
   • We identify defects as well as document them thoroughly. Our comprehensive report includes detailed summaries as well as photographic evidence that provides a clear picture of the defects and their locations.
4. Full Engineering Certification:
   • At QBM, we ensure our professional dilapidation report meets the highest standards. We achieve this by including full engineering certification where required.

The Post-Construction Dilapidation Report Process

After the construction phase is complete, QBM remains committed to a meticulous evaluation process:

1. Complete Organisation of Re-inspection Program: We, in collaboration with the contractor, will organise a post-construction re-inspection program. This ensures that every inch of the property is meticulously examined after the construction has been completed.
2. On-Site Auditing for Defects Comparison: The on-site auditing process is repeated to identify the condition of previous defects and to identify any new defects that may have emerged during the construction phase.
3. Comparison between Pre and Post-Construction: At QBM, we provide a detailed comparison between the pre-construction and post-construction conditions in the report. This step is important for understanding the impact of the construction project on the property.
4. Detailed Report with Photographic Evidence: Similar to the pre-construction phase, our post-construction report includes a detailed summary complete with photographic evidence of defects and their specific locations.
5. Full Engineering Certification: The post-construction report is finalized with full engineering certification which ensures that the assessment meets the necessary standards and can be relied upon for legal and compliance purposes.

Why Contractors Need A Professional Dilapidation Report 

Getting a professional dilapidation report is crucial, especially for those where it is required under contract to conduct surveys on neighbouring properties. Dilapidation surveys act as a protective measure for both contractors and property owners in the event of any damages occurring to adjoining properties during construction. QBM’s dilapidation surveys play a pivotal role in this process by identifying the actual condition of all adjacent properties before the commencement of construction work. This not only shields the contractor by documenting existing cracks and movements with written descriptions and photographic evidence but also establishes a baseline to determine if the construction activities have contributed to any subsequent issues.

Why Homeowners Need a Professional Dilapidation Survey

For homeowners, when a neighbouring property wants to undertake a construction or development project, it can be a cause for concern. By undertaking a dilapidation survey before construction begins, you will be protecting yourself from any potential repair bills as a result of their work. The updated Building Authority legislation allows homeowners to make claims against builders for damages resulting from construction activities. A dilapidation report is crucial in the event of damage.

Contact Us At QBM

As we have seen, a professional dilapidation report is not just a compliance requirement; it’s a proactive measure that protects the interests of all parties involved. Whether you’re a property owner or a contractor, contact the team at QBM today for further information on dilapidation reports.