Parramatta Light Trail: Pre and Post-Dilapidation Report

We can say that one is a developing neighbourhood when there’s a construction of a new property, including infrastructure projects and high-rise developments.

Excavation and demolition work requires heavy machinery and equipment that can cause severe damage to the worksite. This results in alteration of current terrain and removal of soil, plant, or even trees. Demolition may also involve knocking down parts of the current structure.

Even if the construction and demolition processes are sufficiently managed, a significant amount of work and traffic can damage nearby infrastructures. It is often difficult to prove what caused the damage and who was at fault. The damage is also expensive to repair. 

All properties that are close to the construction site have to be assessed to prevent future disputes. We do this through dilapidation surveys.

If you’re a developer or a contractor, a dilapidation survey is a must before starting a new project. Having this protects you from possible dilapidation claims.

Suppose you’re a property owner and a builder is about to start work on a new structure adjacent to your commercial space or home. In that case, you need to ensure that you have a record of the current property condition before work commences. This will protect you from any dilapidation problems in the future.

During the initial construction phase, neutral third parties, such as Effective Building & Consultancy, often file building condition reports.

How Did Effective Building & Consultancy Conduct Pre and Post-Dilapidation Inspection for the Parramatta Light Rail?

Effective Building & Consultancy successfully undertook the early works pre and post-dilapidation inspection for the Parramatta light rail.

In the first stage, we documented the pre-existing structural damage before the construction starts. In the second stage, we inspected nearby properties after the project completion.

The pre-and post-construction dilapidation report we provided for the Parramatta light rail prevented disputes if nearby structures sustain damage due to the construction work. 

Dilapidation surveys are carried out by Effective Building & Consultancy certified building inspectors who are knowledgeable in the specific aspects of the property that are likely to be affected by construction.

Elie Farah, along with other building inspectors, knows exactly what to look for during a dilapidation inspection.

We do this before drilling, excavation, demolition, earth compaction, and trench digging take place. For example, our dilapidation report on the Parramatta light rail recorded the condition of existing effects and cracks with notes, diagrams, measurements, and photographs.

There is a second inspection after the project completion. This is done to evaluate any changes to the property condition as documented in the first report. The second survey will identify cracks, debris, subsidence, and water damage and determine the repair needed.

The dilapidation report is signed by the property owner and the contractor or developer having construction work done.

3 Reasons Why You Should Get a Dilapidation Report

Any building or demolition projects can affect nearby buildings. Heavy machinery used or the removal of vast amounts of solid can cause damage to adjacent properties. \

Even with careful planning and management, damage sometimes occur on adjoining properties. However, with a dilapidation report, the builder and property owners are protected against messy disputes in case of damage.

1. Independent Report from a Professional

A dilapidation report documents the current property condition and outlines areas that may be prone to damage. These can include

• Stresses
• Cracks
• Water damage to floors, walls, ceilings, and cornices
• Deterioration of gutters, roofs, and downpipes
• Cracks in road surfaces, brickworks, and footpaths.

The final dilapidation report includes a comprehensive written document, photographs, and even video. Therefore, Effective Building & Consultancy’s professional inspectors should provide an independent, in-depth report without any bias towards both parties.

2. Extensive Guide for Builders and Contractors

With a dilapidation report on hand, a contractor can evaluate the condition of structures and take proper precautions during construction. They can take measures to reduce movement, vibration, and water overflow that could affect adjacent features or surfaces.

A dilapidation report can also guide contractors during the restoration process after the project completion. For example, when landscaping of roads had to be moved during construction, the dilapidation survey can help restore these original structures to the way they were. 

3. Protects Contractors from Fraudulent Claims

When damage occurs on surrounding properties, it’s the building contractors who were usually blamed. But, if you have a dilapidation report, you will not be liable for damage present before you started construction. The information serves as evidence to defend against atrocious demands and prevent costly drawn-out litigation.

When to Order a Dilapidation Survey Report?

For Contractors, Builders, and Real Estate Developers

Order a dilapidation report before carrying out any digging, demolition, piling, construction, or renovation. This can protect you from any potential claims from third parties.

For Residential and Commercial Property Owners:

Order a dilapidation report before any alteration, renovation, construction, demolition, underground work, or reconstruction is done in your neighbourhood.

Property owners who have plans to renovate their homes or buildings should also get a dilapidation report to identify any point of degradation, instability, or weakness.

Dilapidation surveys are essential regardless of the project scale. Effective Building & Consultancy conducts dilapidation reports anywhere in New South Wales. In addition, our team of professional building inspectors will be happy to assist you with your building inspection needs. 

Contact us on 02 9613 3353 to organise a dilapidation survey for your new project. 

For more information about our building inspection services, visit our Help Centre.