Dilapidation Reports Before Construction
What a dilapidation report should record
A dilapidation report is a structured record of the condition of surrounding areas before construction works begin. It creates one shared baseline for owners, building managers, neighbours and contractors so discussions rely on evidence not assumptions.
Focus on items that are likely to be impacted by access, demolition, excavation, façade access, scaffolding, hoarding and temporary works. Record cracks, stains, spalling, corrosion, movement signs and any existing damage that could later be misread as new. Use clear photos with locations plus notes that describe extent and severity. Also note areas that are in good condition so the baseline is complete.
Include common areas and boundaries such as lobbies, corridors, stairs, basements, retaining walls, driveways, kerbs, footpaths, fences and nearby structures. This is practical strata project risk control because it reduces ambiguity and helps procurement teams manage scope, approvals and neighbour concerns.
A good report does not replace engineering advice. It supports delivery by reducing disputes and keeping the team focused on work not claims.
When to commission it for strata plus commercial sites
Timing matters. A pre construction condition report should be completed close to the site start once access approvals are confirmed and the planned sequence is understood. If it is done too early site conditions can change. If it is done after deliveries or setup it loses credibility.
Method matters too. Photos should be sharp, well lit and tied to specific locations. Notes should be factual and avoid exaggeration. Cover both the work zone and nearby elements that could be affected by movement, vibration, material handling and traffic.
For strata sites include shared areas plus entry paths plus lift lobbies plus corridor corners and stair landings. For commercial sites include loading docks, wall finishes, thresholds and high traffic routes. This supports neighbour property protection because it shows what existed before heavy activity began.
Store the report where it can be retrieved fast during delivery. If a concern is raised later, compare it against the baseline and apply controls if needed. This is strong strata project risk control and it helps keep stakeholder communication calm.
Frequently Asked Questions
1.What is a dilapidation report?
A dilapidation report records the existing condition of surrounding areas before construction starts so later changes can be assessed against evidence.
For further information please refer to construction safety, strata, reports
2. Why does SCE Corp prepare a dilapidation report?
We prepare a dilapidation report to support neighbour property protection and reduce disputes during delivery.
For further information please refer to construction safety, strata, reports
3. When is the dilapidation report conducted?
It is usually completed close to the start of works once access and staging are confirmed. This timing strengthens the pre construction condition report baseline.
For further information please refer to construction safety, strata, reports
4. Who uses dilapidation reports from SCE Corp?
Strata managers, asset owners, builders and consultants use the report for claims management and site governance and strata project risk control.
For further information please refer to construction safety, strata, reports
5. Are dilapidation reports part of SCE Corp’s broader service delivery?
Yes. They often sit alongside access planning, scope definition and stakeholder communication to support safe delivery.
For further information please refer to construction safety, strata, reports
6. Do dilapidation reports help with regulatory compliance?
They can support compliance by providing records that assist dispute resolution and site governance. They do not replace statutory inspections.
For further information please refer to construction safety, strata, reports
7.Can a dilapidation report help reduce disputes?
Yes. A clear baseline supports neighbour property protection and reduces arguments about what damage is new.
For further information please refer to construction safety, strata, reports
8. Does SCE Corp offer post-construction dilapidation reporting?
Yes when required. A post works check compares the baseline to current conditions and supports closure with neighbours.
For further information please refer to construction safety, strata, reports
9. Who should I contact to arrange a dilapidation report with SCE Corp?
Send the site address plus drawings plus access details plus the intended start date so we can confirm scope and timing for the pre construction condition report.
For further information please refer to construction safety, strata, reports
10.Are dilapidation reports included in all project types?
Not always. They are most valuable where there is close proximity to neighbours, tight access, high vibration risk or complex staging that needs strata project risk control.
For further information please refer to construction safety, strata, reports
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