- A dilapidation report on a standard home is a fixed price. The current price is on our dilapidation report page.
- The total depends on how many properties, their size, and whether you need a final comparison inspection.
- The builder or developer usually pays. Neighbours can also book their own.
- Get it done before the works start. Once the excavator turns up, the baseline is gone.
- Keep the report for at least six years. It’s your evidence if damage shows up later.
“Without a before record, it’s your word against theirs. A dilapidation report takes the argument out of it.”
Russell McCarthy, Registered Builder & Lead Building Inspector
Short answer: with us, a dilapidation report on a standard home is a fixed price, and I keep the current figure on our dilapidation report page so it’s always up to date. The total comes down to how many properties need a report, how big they are, whether it’s a home or a commercial building, and whether you need a final inspection after the works to compare against the first one. Developers who need several reports get a discounted package.
G’day, Russell here, registered builder (BP104751) at WA Building Inspections. A dilapidation report is cheap insurance, whichever side of the fence you’re on. Here’s what goes into the price.
| Factor | How it affects the price |
|---|---|
| Number of properties | Each neighbouring property needs its own report. |
| Size and type | Commercial buildings take longer to document than a standard home. |
| Initial only, or initial and final | A final inspection and comparison report is done after the works, if needed. |
| Multiple reports | Developers get a discounted package. |
| Current prices | See the dilapidation report page |
What is a dilapidation report?
A dilapidation report records the visible condition of a property before nearby demolition, excavation or construction starts. We document it with notes, photos and video, so there’s a clear record to compare against later.
If something changes during or after the works, a final inspection records the difference. Put the two side by side and you can see what’s new.
What changes the price?
- The number of properties. One house next door is one report. A development with five neighbours is five.
- Size and type. A commercial building takes longer to document than a standard home, so a commercial dilapidation report is priced separately.
- Initial only, or initial and final. The first inspection sets the baseline. The final inspection and comparison report is done after the works, if you need it.
- Packages. Developers and builders who need multiple reports get a discounted package.
Who pays for a dilapidation report?
Usually the builder or developer doing the works. Some Perth councils require one as a condition of approval, and it protects the developer from claims for damage that was already there.
If you’re the neighbour and nobody has offered you one, you can book your own. It’s your house, and your record.
What do you get for the money?
- An inspection of the inside and outside of the property.
- Photos and video of the existing condition, including any cracks that are already there.
- Findings written in plain English.
- Commentary from a registered builder, which carries weight with insurers and in a dispute.
- The report within 24 hours.
When should you get one?
Before the works start. Once the excavator turns up, the baseline is gone.
Book one if any of these is about to happen next door or close by:
- Demolition.
- Excavation, including basements and pools.
- A new build or a big extension.
- Road, drainage or other civil works.
The damage I see most from neighbouring works is cracked brickwork and cracked render. Without a before record, it’s your word against theirs.
“The damage I see most from neighbouring works is cracked brickwork and cracked render.”
Russell McCarthy
Is a dilapidation report worth it?
In my experience, yes. When a developer is shown a professional report that proves the damage is new, they generally fix it without a fight. And if it does end up in a claim, you’ve got dated evidence.
Keep the report for at least six years.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a dilapidation report cost in Perth?
At WA Building Inspections it’s a fixed price for a standard home, and the current price is listed on our dilapidation report page. The total depends on the number of properties, their size and whether a final comparison inspection is needed. Developers get discounted packages for multiple reports.
Who pays for a dilapidation report, the builder or the neighbour?
Usually the builder or developer doing the works, particularly where the council requires it. A neighbouring owner can also book their own report.
Is a dilapidation report required in WA?
Not in every case. Some Perth councils require one from the developer as a condition of approval. Check with your local council. Even where it isn’t required, it’s a sensible way to protect both sides.
When should a dilapidation report be done?
Before any demolition, excavation or construction starts nearby. A final inspection is done after the works if the condition of the property has changed.
How long should I keep a dilapidation report?
At least six years.
What is the difference between a dilapidation report and a building inspection?
A dilapidation report records the existing condition of a property so it can be compared later. A building inspection assesses the condition of a home for someone who is buying or selling it.
Related Reading
- Dilapidation report Perth: protect your property before construction starts
- Commercial dilapidation reports in Perth and WA
- Which building inspection do I need?
Written by Russell McCarthy, Registered Builder (BP104751) and Lead Building Inspector at WA Building Inspections Perth.