Terms of Reference for

Dilapidation Survey
1. Introduction
Prolonged exposure to inclement weather and other wet conditions may cause
structural changes to the any facility / building.
Generally, dilapidation survey is carried out to determine the extent of damage that has
been caused by the prolonged exposure.
Dilapidation survey comprises of a detailed assessment of the facility prepared by the
inspecting Building Engineer. The survey includes visual inspection of the condition of
the reasonably accessible parts of the facility, on the basis of the prevailing structural,
soil and weather conditions at the time of the inspection.
It should be noted that this survey does not cover maintenance related items (such as
jamming doors, windows or catches, decorative finishes and hairline or slight cracks,
etc.) and pest inspection.
2. Definitions
2.1 Minor Defect/Maintenance item: any items of repair which are common to
properties of similar age or type of construction and as described in the Property
Maintenance Guide, including decorative features and finishes.
2.2 Major Defect: a defect of sufficient magnitude where rectification has to be carried
out without undue delay to avoid:

unsafe conditions, posing a threat to life or serious injury; OR

loss of utility whereby the defect is such that the whole of the relevant part of the
property can no longer serve its intended function; OR

further substantial deterioration of the property.

2.3 Serious Structural Defect

A major defect in any internal or external primary load bearing component of the
building which seriously affects the structural integrity of the building requiring
rectification to be carried out without undue delay to avoid:

unsafe conditions, posing a threat to life or serious injury; OR

loss of utility, whereby the defect is such that the whole of the relevant part of the
building can no longer serve its intended function; OR

further substantial deterioration of the building.

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3. Inspection Access
The inspector can only inspect the reasonably accessible parts of the property. Where
warranted, arrangement shall be made to have reasonable access to inspect any
inaccessible parts of the property. If parts of the property have been noted as being
inaccessible during the inspection, it is important that arrangements are made with the
relevant Authority for inspection at another date when access is available.
Reasonably and Safely Accessible: these are accessible areas which can be accessed
by a 3.6 metre ladder or those which have at least 600mm unimpeded vertical and
horizontal clearance without the removal of any fixed or unfixed furniture, fittings,
stored items, cladding or lining materials, plants or soil.
Workplace Health and Safety access conditions apply subject to relevant statutory
regulations. Areas higher than 3 metres above ground level require secure ladder
access and fall prevention devices or barriers.

4. Scope of Work
The dilapidation survey should assess the condition of the building and its suitability
and fitness for the intended use of the building.
Where the building is adjoining other facilities, the survey should cover the impact of
the neighbouring property on the building being inspected.
The Dilapidation Survey Report shall include the following:
(a) Identification of observed building defects upon a visual inspection of the

reasonably accessible parts of the property;

(b) Assessment of defects for significance relative to the expected condition of a well

maintained property of similar age and construction type;

(c) Test reports on the quality of concrete in the structural elements, etc.
(d) Recommended actions for identified defects;
(e) Recommended professionals and/or trades who may be appropriate to undertake

further investigation or carry out the recommended action;

(f) General and specific additional advice on maintenance matters that your inspector

has deemed appropriate.

However, the Dilapidation Survey shall not include:
(a) Identification of toxic mould, or asbestos related products;
(b) Condition or operation of swimming pools, spas or their surroundings, rainwater or

grey water tanks or treatment and similar facilities;

(c) Condition, adequacy or compliance of electrical, gas and plumbing systems

including roof plumbing, underground pipes or drainage systems;

(d) Operation adequacy or compliance of security and communications systems,

smoke detectors, building services, building automation, electrically operated

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doors including garage doors, plant, equipment, mechanical, gas or electrical

appliances and fittings;
(e) Footings below ground, soil conditions, site factors and hazards;
(f) Compliance with legal, planning, regulatory including Building Code of Australia,

sustainability or environmental matters including but not limited to the adequacy or

safety of insulation, waterproof membranes and/or other installations, Bushfire
Attack Level assessments;
(g) Timber, metal or other framing sizes and adequacy.
(h) Access restrictions will be noted where appropriate.

5. Submission of Reports
The Interim Reports shall be submitted in 6 sets hardcopy, complete with photographs,
test reports and recommended remedial measures.
The final Reports shall incorporate all comments from the Client and the C&S
Consultant, and shall be submitted in 3 sets and 1 set soft copy in CD.

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