What’s The Difference Between a Building Defects Report & A Dilapidation Report?

A building defects report and a dilapidation report are two very similar, but very different reports. A building defects report is a detailed analysis of a property that determines any defects that require remedial work. It is a detailed inspection of a building in order to establish any maintenance and repairs needed at that time.

A dilapidation report is slightly different. It is a similar inspection of a building but with the sole aim of protecting any contractors who work on the property. Dilapidation building reports or surveys are designed to protect both the contractor and the property owner. Read on as we continue to explore the differences between these crucial reports.

Why is a Dilapidation Report Important?

Whether it’s pre-construction or post-construction, a dilapidation report is important for many reasons. If you are constructing infrastructure work for the Government, it is likely that one of the conditions of your contract will be to construct a dilapidation report upon adjoining properties.

These surveys are designed to protect both the contractor and the property owner, should any damage occur to adjoining properties.

Most of the time, property owners are not aware of the condition of their property. Upon noticing any imperfections, they are often quick to blame contractors and demand costs to rectify any problems.

Having a dilapidation report ensures that the condition of any adjoining properties is stated prior to any work commencing. This protects the contractor from any complex problems that were not due to their error.

Performing a dilapidation report after construction is also important. To ensure the protection of contractors is maximised, having a dilapidation report pre and post-construction is recommended.

What Does a Dilapidation Building Report Cover?

A dilapidation building report will generally cover the overall condition of a property, either before construction or after.

A Brisbane dilapidation report covers all adjoining properties that will be impacted by planned works. Letters are sent to the owners and tenants of all impacted properties, notifying them of the planned works and inspection times to conduct dilapidation surveys.

At QBM, our pre-construction report includes:

  • Complete organisation of the inspection program in conjunction with the contractor
  • On-site auditing of the property to identify all defects
  • Details summary and report with photographic evidence of the defect and specific locations
  • Full engineering certification as required

Our Post-construction report includes:

  • Complete organisation of the re-inspection program in conjunction with the contractor
  • On-site auditing of the property to identify the condition of previous defects and all new defects
  • Comparisons between condition pre to post-construction
  • Details summary and report with photographic evidence of the defect and specific locations
  • Full engineering certification as required

When Do I Need a Dilapidation Building Report?

As previously mentioned, a dilapidation report can be conducted pre-construction or post-construction. We recommend getting both to ensure contractors are protected as much as possible.

Construction activities are not only inconvenient for neighbouring properties but also have the potential to be destructive for adjoining buildings due to the vibrations associated with the construction activities. Owners who undertake dilapidation surveys on their property are protected from paying any costly repair bills to rectify damage caused by any construction activities.

Who Can Provide a Dilapidation Report?

A dilapidation report is carried out by an independent surveyor on behalf of the landlord or property manager. Here at QBM, we provide the most professional dilapidation report inspecting and reporting services at a cost-effective price, reflecting the requirements of building owners and contractors.

Why Choose QBM

We at Quality Building Management are proud to offer the best service at the best price. Your Brisbane Dilapidation report will be carried out by our team of experienced professionals who supply the full service as required by any contract. With a vast amount of experience in the field, we ensure we operate to protect you. We are fully insured to cover any dilapidation report. Contact us today for further information.