Free Dilapidation Report Template and Checklist (NSW)
Whether you are a property owner wanting to understand what a dilapidation report covers, or a professional preparing your own documentation, our free template and checklist provides a comprehensive starting point based on NSW industry standards.
What the Template Includes
Our dilapidation report template covers every area that a qualified building surveyor or structural engineer would typically assess during a pre-construction inspection. It is structured to help you understand the scope of a professional report and ensure nothing is overlooked.
Cover page and property details
Address, owner details, inspector information, date of inspection, and purpose of the report.
Room-by-room checklist
Systematic checklist for every room, covering walls, ceilings, floors, doors, and windows.
Photo log and cross-reference guide
Standardised numbering system for linking photos to specific defects and locations in the report.
Condition rating scale
Consistent rating system for describing the severity and type of each observed defect or condition.
Why Use a Dilapidation Report Template?
A structured template ensures consistency and completeness. Whether you are reviewing a report prepared by a specialist, or you want to understand what should be documented before nearby construction begins, having a checklist prevents critical areas from being missed.
For property owners, the template helps you understand exactly what a qualified building surveyor will assess during the inspection. This means you can ask informed questions and ensure the report you receive is thorough and fit for purpose.
For strata managers and body corporates, the template provides a standardised framework that can be used across multiple units and common areas, ensuring consistent documentation throughout the complex.
While this template is a valuable reference tool, we always recommend engaging a qualified building surveyor or structural engineer to conduct the actual inspection and prepare the formal report. A professionally prepared dilapidation report carries significantly more weight in insurance claims and legal proceedings. We connect you with experienced specialists across Sydney who produce comprehensive reports to the highest industry standards.
Template Sections Preview
The template is organised into four core assessment areas. Each section includes detailed checklist items to guide a thorough property inspection.
Exterior Assessment
- External walls (brick, render, cladding, weatherboard)
- Roof condition (tiles, guttering, fascia, downpipes)
- Fencing, retaining walls, boundary walls
- Driveways, pathways, outdoor paving
- Landscaping and drainage features
- External fixtures (balconies, awnings, pergolas)
Interior Assessment
- Walls (cracks, staining, dampness, paint condition)
- Ceilings (cracks, sagging, water marks)
- Floors (tiles, timber, carpet condition, levelness)
- Doors and windows (frames, operation, seals)
- Wet areas (bathrooms, laundry, kitchen)
- Room-by-room notation system
Structural Elements
- Foundation and footings (visible cracking, settlement)
- Load-bearing walls (structural cracks, movement)
- Beams, columns, and lintels
- Subfloor areas (where accessible)
- Garage and carport structures
- Crack measurement reference chart
Photographic Evidence
- Photo numbering and cross-referencing system
- Scale reference requirements (rulers, crack gauges)
- Date and time stamping protocol
- Wide-angle and close-up shot guidelines
- External elevation photo sequence
- Evidence storage and backup procedures
Download the Free Template
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Learn More About Dilapidation Reports
Need a Professional Dilapidation Report?
While our template is a helpful reference, a professionally prepared report by a qualified building surveyor is essential for insurance and legal protection. We connect you with experienced specialists across Sydney.
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