Balmain terrace

The owners of this terrace house in Balmain, Sydney were embarking on renovations which required a Development Application to be submitted to Leichhardt Council. As part of the approvals process and through their architects, Acumen Engineers was engaged to undertake pre-construction dilapidation surveys of the neighbouring properties.

After arranging inspection times with the owners of the neighbouring properties, we surveyed each premises and documented the condition of buildings and structures and identified existing defects. We photographed all significant items (whether they had defects or not), including door frames, cornices, rendering, fireplaces, mantelpieces and ornate arches, facades, fences and walling.  

Our detailed written and photographic records set clear, impartial benchmarks to later assess any damage that could occur as a result of the renovation works. We delivered copies of the pre-construction dilapidation report to the architects for distribution to our client, the certifier and the owners of the neighbouring properties.

Once the renovations were complete a year later, we were invited to undertake post-construction dilapidation surveys of the same neighbouring properties. We arranged inspection times with the owners and examined each premises, documenting the condition of buildings and structures, identifying existing defects and assessing these against our original pre-construction dilapidation surveys.

Our engineer observed some newly damaged bricks on a boundary wall, which he identified as being caused by the renovation works. This damage was documented in his report, along with recommendations for a builder to make the minor repairs. We delivered copies of the post-construction dilapidation report to the architects for distribution to our client, the certifier and the owners of the neighbouring properties. The neighbour’s boundary wall was repaired and our client’s renovations were certified by Leichhardt Council.  

Many local councils require independent pre- and post-construction inspections and reports as part of the approvals process. Dilapidation surveys benefit home owners embarking on renovations, as well as the owners of neighbouring properties. These unbiased written and photographic records protect all parties involved.

Photograph by Robyn Jay