Dilapidation reports are an essential to construction works because they provide an accurate record of the condition of a property before any construction or demolition work takes place nearby.
These reports are typically conducted by a structural engineer and involve a detailed structural inspection of the property, including photographs and written descriptions.
There are several reasons why dilapidation reports are important:
- Liability & Protection: If damage occurs to a neighboring property during construction or demolition work, the owner or contractor may be held liable. A dilapidation report can provide evidence of the pre-existing condition of the property, which can help to establish liability and prevent disputes.
- Compliance: In some cases, local authorities may require a dilapidation report as a condition of planning permission or as part of a construction permit. Failure to comply with these requirements can result in fines or legal action.
