We strongly encourage you to provide access because a complete dilapidation report depends on seeing both inside and outside your property.

External-only inspections miss subtle condition indicators — like minor cracking around internal door frames or ceiling junctions — that can only be recorded from within.

By participating, you’re ensuring your property’s condition is fully documented before works begin. It’s standard practice, and it protects you.

If internal access isn’t provided, the report will note that internal areas were not inspected.

That means:

• The record will only reflect external observations

• There won’t be a baseline for internal condition

• It limits your protection if questions come up later

We won’t pressure you, but we do recommend access because a full record is stronger and more useful for everyone.

No. There is no cost to you as a resident or property owner arising from the inspection itself.

Dilapidation surveys are commissioned and paid for by the developer, council or project proponent who is required to have the survey done.

The dilapidation report is prepared for the client who commissioned it (e.g. developer, builder, council).

Distribution beyond that will depend on the engagement and privacy arrangements, but generally:

• The report becomes part of project records

• It may be provided to relevant stakeholders under approval conditions

If you would like a copy, your contact details or property details are usually noted in your notification letter — you can ask the instructing party for a copy.

No. A dilapidation survey is a factual condition record. It is not:

• A claims document

• A compliance notice

• An enforcement tool

Its sole purpose is to record what was visible before construction starts — to reduce uncertainty and support fair, evidence-based discussions if concerns arise.

It does not imply anything is wrong.

Photographs are taken of building elements within areas where lawful access has been granted.

If access is provided internally, photos may include walls, ceilings, floors, door frames, wet areas and other visible building surfaces.

External photographs are only taken where:

• The area is publicly visible; or

• Access has been lawfully provided or authorised.

The focus is strictly on the building condition — not personal belongings.

A dilapidation survey protects you by creating a clear, dated reference of your property’s condition before nearby construction begins.

This means:

• There’s an objective record of what existed beforehand

• It’s easier to distinguish existing condition from later changes

• Greater clarity if questions are raised later

• Less reliance on memory or assumption

That’s true whether you own the property, rent it, or manage it through an agent.

If you are a tenant:

• The inspection still needs access

• It’s usually coordinated through the property manager or agent

• The owner should be informed

This process protects the owner too, and helps avoid uncertainty if condition questions arise later.

You can assist by keeping key areas accessible on the inspection day.

Preparation is minimal — this is a non-invasive visual assessment.

Best practice includes:

• Ensuring rooms and balconies are accessible

• Opening blinds/curtains where possible (natural light helps photos)

• Clearing small obstacles near walls and thresholds

You do not need to move furniture, open cupboards, or do major tidying. A reasonable line of sight to the surfaces is all that’s needed.

Typical inspection durations are:

• 2-bed apartment: ~30 minutes

• Standalone house: ~45–60 minutes

• Commercial / larger properties: Depends on size and access areas

Inspectors work efficiently and respectfully to minimise disruption.

Preferably yes. However you can arrange access via a property manager or trusted friend or relative.