Dilapidation Reports
Construction work near your home or investment property can put nearby buildings at risk. Vibrations, excavation, or heavy machinery can cause cracks, movement, or other damage that may not show up straight away. A dilapidation report gives you a clear record of your property's condition before work begins, helping prevent disputes and protecting everyone involved.
At SMART Building Specialists, we carry out detailed dilapidation reports across Perth for homeowners, builders, developers, and councils. Our reports are impartial, easy to understand, and backed by photo evidence. Whether you're protecting your own home or managing a construction project, a dilapidation report is a smart and simple step that can save time, money, and conflict later on.
What we look for and why it matters
A dilapidation report records the existing condition of nearby buildings, structures, and surfaces before construction or demolition begins. We inspect and document things like cracking, movement, subsidence, water damage, and surface wear across driveways, walls, fences, footpaths, and internal areas.
This protects both parties. If damage appears later, you’ll have clear evidence of what was there beforehand. It’s a simple step that helps prevent disputes and ensures accountability during high-impact work.
Who it’s for and when to book
Dilapidation reports are for anyone planning construction work near existing structures. This includes developers, builders, homeowners, and councils. If your work could affect neighbouring properties, a report provides legal and practical peace of mind.
Book the report before any heavy work starts. It should be completed once site access is possible but before excavation, demolition, or machinery is brought in. We also offer follow-up inspections if needed after the work is complete.
Why Dilapidation Reports Matter
With Perth’s growing population and the re-zoning of older suburbs, more people are finding construction projects starting next door or just down the street. These developments can have an impact on surrounding properties, often leading to cracking in internal walls, exterior finishes, or concrete surfaces.
Many property owners are unaware that without a dilapidation report completed before construction begins, it’s almost impossible to claim damage costs later. If a builder disputes the cause, you may not have the evidence needed to prove that the damage wasn’t already there.
What Is a Dilapidation Report?
A dilapidation report is a detailed survey that records the existing condition of a property before nearby construction or demolition begins. This includes both internal and external areas, with photos and written notes covering walls, ceilings, flooring, fencing, driveways, and more.
Our reports are impartial and thorough. We don’t take sides. The goal is to protect everyone involved; property owners, builders, developers, and neighbours.
What Is Dilapidation?
Dilapidation refers to damage that can occur during nearby building, excavation, or demolition works. Vibrations, soil movement, or impact from heavy machinery can all affect homes located within close range of a construction site.
If there is a project starting within 100 metres of your home, the risk of damage is higher than you might expect. Cracks, shifting, or settlement can appear during or after the work, and without a record of the property’s original condition, you may be left with repair costs.
Who Should Get a Dilapidation Report?
Dilapidation reports are recommended for:
Homeowners living near a planned build or demolition
Developers and builders working close to existing structures
Councils or property managers wanting to avoid future disputes
If any work is happening near your home or investment property, it’s worth booking a report before construction begins.
When to Book and What It Covers
The report should be completed once there is safe access to the site but before any heavy machinery, excavation, or structural work begins. Our inspections include:
Internal and external walls
Ceilings and flooring
Paths, driveways, fences, and retaining walls
Visible signs of existing cracks or damage
We also offer follow-up inspections if needed once construction is finished.
Cost of a Dilapidation Report
Every property is different, so the cost of a dilapidation report will vary based on the size of the building and the areas you want inspected. Our team can give you a clear quote based on your property type and location.
Get in touch with SMART Building Specialists for more information or to book your inspection.
Contact the Team
Western Australia Office
E: reception@smartbuildingspecialists.com.au
T: (08) 6118 6138
A: 100 Havelock St, West Perth 6005
