Dilapidation Inspections in Adelaide

When construction starts next door, concerns about cracking and damage often follow. A dilapidation inspection creates an objective baseline of a property’s condition before works begin.

We document the existing condition with clear photos and notes so all parties understand what was present at the time of inspection. This supports straightforward communication if damage is alleged during or after the works.

If you are a home owner who wants a broader condition assessment (outside a neighbouring works context), our building inspections in Adelaide service can help with defect-focused reporting.

Who This Inspection Is For

This service is used by builders, developers, councils and owners who need a clear “before works” record. It is particularly important when excavation, piling, demolition or heavy vehicle access will occur near existing homes.

  • Builders and developers who need a pre-works condition baseline
  • Councils or project managers working near residential properties
  • Home owners who want an independent record before neighbouring works begin
  • Projects involving excavation, demolition, vibration or restricted access

What We Inspect

A dilapidation inspection is a detailed visual record of accessible areas. We focus on elements most likely to be affected by vibration or ground movement and we document existing defects with clear photos and notes.

  • External walls and visible cracking, movement or distortion
  • Internal walls, ceilings and floors where access is provided
  • Driveways, paths, paving and hard landscaping
  • Fences, retaining walls, boundary structures and external steps
  • Verandahs, porches, balconies and attached external elements
  • Existing moisture staining or water damage where visible
  • Photo documentation referenced throughout the report

Common Issues In Adelaide Homes

Adelaide has a mix of older homes and redevelopment sites where excavation and demolition are common. Many properties already have minor cracking or movement-related indicators, particularly in areas with reactive clay soils. Without a baseline record, it can be difficult to confirm what was pre-existing.

Construction-related vibration, temporary changes to drainage paths, and heavy vehicle access can all be concerns. External paving, driveways, retaining walls and fences can show movement over time, and older internal finishes can reveal minor defects that may be mistaken for “new damage” if they are not recorded properly.

Coastal suburbs can also show material wear that is unrelated to nearby works, such as corrosion to fixings or deterioration to exposed external elements. A dilapidation report helps separate existing wear from any alleged change during the project.

What You Receive

You receive a written report that documents the property’s condition at the time of inspection. The report includes photo evidence and clear notes so the baseline is easy to understand and reference later.

  • Photo-backed documentation of visible defects and condition
  • Clear notes to support objective before-works evidence
  • Practical structure that is easy to reference if questions arise
  • Most reports delivered within 24 hours

Areas We Service

We service metropolitan Adelaide and surrounding suburbs, including Glenelg, Henley Beach, and the north-eastern suburbs such as Modbury. If you are unsure about a specific address, send the details through and we will confirm availability.

Why Choose Insight Property Inspections

Dilapidation reporting needs to be accurate, consistent and easy to follow. We complete inspections methodically and document visible condition clearly so the baseline is useful to owners, builders and project managers.

Our focus is evidence and clarity rather than blame. Clear photos and clear notes help keep discussions practical if concerns are raised during or after the works.

FAQs

Q: What is a dilapidation inspection?
A: A dilapidation inspection is a detailed visual record of a property’s existing condition before nearby construction, excavation or demolition. It documents cracking, movement and defects with notes and photos.
Q: Who usually orders a dilapidation report?
A: Councils, builders, developers and sometimes neighbours request these reports. Builders and developers often order reports on adjoining properties before excavation or heavy works begin, while owners sometimes request their own independent record.
Q: When should the inspection take place?
A: The ideal timing is shortly before any significant construction or demolition starts, with a follow-up inspection after completion if agreed. This approach gives a clear before and after record.
Q: Does a dilapidation report stop all disputes?
A: A report cannot prevent disagreement, but it provides objective evidence of the property’s condition at specific points in time. That evidence helps all parties understand whether new cracking or damage relates to the recent works or pre-existing issues.
Q: What areas are documented in a dilapidation report?
A: We document accessible internal and external areas that could be affected by vibration or ground movement, such as external walls, internal walls and ceilings (where access is allowed), driveways, paths, fences and retaining walls.
Q: Do you inspect neighbouring properties (adjoining owners)?
A: Yes, where access has been arranged. We work with the party organising the report to confirm access requirements and document the condition of each accessible area methodically.
Q: How quickly will we receive the report?
A: In most cases the written report is provided within 24 hours. If you have a tight construction start date, let us know and we will confirm expected delivery when booking.

Book your inspection

If you have construction or demolition planned near existing homes in Adelaide, or your property sits next to upcoming works, use the contact form to request a dilapidation inspection. Include the site address, type of project and expected start date so we can schedule an appropriate time.

If the project start date is close, it helps to book early so the inspection can be completed before work begins and access becomes more restricted.