Qualified & Registered Building Experts
Dilapidation Report Melbourne
A dilapidation report records the exact condition of a property before nearby construction, excavation, or demolition begins. If damage occurs during works, this report is your evidence. At Certifyd, our dilapidation reports are prepared by a certified building surveyor and civil engineer — giving you a document that carries real weight.
What Is a Dilapidation Report?
A dilapidation report (also called a condition report or structural dilapidation report) is a detailed, photographic record of a property’s condition at a specific point in time. It documents existing cracks, structural conditions, and any pre-existing damage — typically before construction or excavation begins nearby.
If damage to your property is later disputed, a certified dilapidation report is the clearest way to prove what was there before works started.
When Do You Need a Dilapidation Report?
Dilapidation reports are required, or strongly recommended in a range of situations:
Both the party carrying out the works (builder or developer) and the property owner next door may need or want a dilapidation report. If you’re also buying the property or planning work of your own, a pre-purchase building inspection or commercial building inspection may be worth arranging alongside it, depending on the property type.
What Our Dilapidation Reports Include?
Every finding is photographed with date-stamped images, clearly described, and compiled into a professional, legally-useful report. Reports are typically ready within 24 hours of the inspection.
Our certified dilapidation reports provide a thorough, photographic record of your property, including:
External Walls
Existing cracks, damage, and surface conditions.
Internal Walls, Ceilings & Floors
Any pre-existing cracking, staining, or structural movement.
Windows & Doors
Frames, seals, and
operation
Driveways & Boundaries
Driveways, paths, fencing, and retaining walls.
Additional Structures
Any other structures within the scope
Why Use a Building Surveyor for Your Dilapidation Report?
A dilapidation report is only as useful as the credentials of the person who prepared it. Our team is led by a certified building surveyor and civil engineer — qualifications that give your report authority in disputes with builders, developers, councils, and insurers.
We understand structures at an engineering level. When we document a crack, we can assess whether it’s cosmetic or structural, which helps establish the significance of any changes after works begin.
What to Expect – 3 Simple Steps
Request a free quote
Fill out our online form with your property details and inspection type.
Receive your quote
No surprises. We confirm the price before anything is booked.
Inspection done
Choose your preferred day. We inspect and deliver your report the same day.
Construction starting nearby? Don’t wait until damage happens.
Same-day reports. No hidden fees. Backed by real engineering expertise
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is responsible for organising a dilapidation report?
Typically the developer or builder is responsible for commissioning reports on neighbouring properties. However, as a property owner, you have every right to organise your own independent report — and we recommend it.
How far in advance should I book a dilapidation report?
Ideally 2–4 weeks before construction begins. The report must be completed before any works start to be valid as a pre-construction record.
What happens if damage occurs after the inspection?
You compare the post-works condition against the dilapidation report. If new damage is documented, you have clear evidence to support a claim against the builder or developer.
Do you inspect commercial properties for dilapidation reports?
Yes — we inspect residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties across Melbourne and Greater Melbourne. For offices, strata buildings, warehouses, and retail sites, our commercial building inspection can also help assess the broader condition of the property itself.
Is a dilapidation report the same as a structural report?
They’re related but different. A dilapidation report records condition at a point in time. A structural report assesses the structural integrity of a building. We can provide both — let us know what you need and we’ll advise the right approach. If you’re preparing to move into or settle on a property, a pre-settlement inspection may also be useful as a separate final-condition check.