Do I Need a Special Purpose Building Report? Here’s When You Do

What is a Special Purpose Report?

A special purpose building report is a detailed inspection tailored to a specific concern or requirement that falls outside a standard pre-purchase inspection. These reports focus on particular problems, areas of a building, or compliance issues, and are designed to provide expert advice, evidence, or analysis. Special Building Reports are custom building reports which have a particular scope depending on client needs.

When Is It Required?

You may need a special purpose report when a general inspection doesn’t cover the issue at hand. These situations include:

• Disputes with builders or contractors

• Council or insurance claims involving property damage

• Suspected structural movement or cracking

• Moisture issues, water ingress, or mould

• Building defects requiring technical clarification

• Legal proceedings requiring expert witness reports

Examples: Insurance, Legal, Defect Resolution

Special purpose reports are often requested in the following real-world situations:

• Insurance claim for storm, fire, or water damage requiring assessment of cause and extent

• Legal dispute over substandard construction needing expert documentation

• Ongoing defect (e.g. ceiling cracks, water seepage) requiring a root-cause analysis and repair recommendation

• Reports for strata committees addressing common property defects or remediation requirements

Differences from Pre-Purchase Reports

Unlike general building inspections, which give an overview of a property’s condition, special purpose reports zoom in on a single issue or class of defect. They may include deeper investigation, expert commentary, reference to building codes or standards, and repair recommendations.

What to Expect in the Report

A special purpose building report may include:

• Description of the problem or requested concern

• Analysis of contributing factors or root causes

• Photographic evidence and site observations

• Compliance assessment with relevant standards

• Recommended actions or rectification steps

• Professional opinion from a n independent licensed builder

• Can assist with documentation required for an insurance claim

Request a Tailored Inspection Today

Need answers to a specific building problem? We offer special purpose inspections and detailed reports to support your claims, projects, and legal requirements.

Expert reports tailored to your needs

Available across NSW and QLD

Reports delivered within 24–48 hours

Call: 0439670336

Email: independentbuildingreports@gmail.com

Website: www.independentbuildingreports.com.au