How much is the dilapidation report important? And for whom?
Sometimes during construction work, the surrounding buildings get damaged.
In most cases, diligent and careful construction work can prevent this type of damage. But unfortunately, there still are times when it happens regardless. This is why it’s imperative for property owners and builders to protect themselves before any construction work begins. They need to do so by assessing any adjoining property’s structural integrity and overall condition. It is not uncommon for a maintained building to show signs of damage after the construction of an adjoining building. Actually, structural engineers in Melbourne are well-familiar with the issue. It’s essential to have a thorough dilapidation report conducted prior to the construction. That’s the best way to ensure that everyone in this situation is protected.
What is a dilapidation report?
A dilapidation report is a common and significant report in the Australian forensic structural engineering industry. It protects both property owners and builders. Dilapidation surveys also make the job of a forensic structural engineer much easier. A dilapidation report includes photographic evidence of a building’s initial condition. It gets done prior to the commencement of construction works on a neighboring property.
It’s important to note that a dilapidation report differs from a building damage inspection report. It’s also not a forensic investigation report. These reports are conducted when a property owner suspects that damage has already been done to their property. On the other hand, a dilapidation report is conducted before the risk of any damage to their property. A building inspection report and building damage investigation report are conducted reactively. While a dilapidation report is conducted proactively. Due to the nature of a dilapidation report, in case of any damage to the property, its cause will not be investigated.
During this service, forensic structural engineers have one job to take care of. They should document the building condition before construction begins on a neighboring property. Part of this documentation includes taking high-quality pictures of every existing damage. This report’s purpose is to prove the building’s original condition. It comes to rescue if anything goes wrong during the construction work on the adjoining property.
MFS has been working in the Australian forensic structural engineering industry for years. So we know that dilapidation surveys are usually requested for several buildings at once. For this reason, we have an entire highly-trained team of junior engineers. So that we can manage all dilapidation projects efficiently and cost-effectively.
If you’re thinking of conducting a dilapidation report, feel free to contact our experts and consult with them!
