About bailiff reports · Building work
Before building work: a record of what was already there
Before building work begins, premises often already show a few signs of wear: a crack in a wall, a damaged kerb or a worn surface. These details can easily go unnoticed in everyday use. A bailiff’s report provides a dated record that can be consulted once work has started.
A newly noticed crack is not necessarily new
The start of building work often draws attention to neighbouring walls and floors. A previously overlooked mark may suddenly become a subject of discussion. Noticing it at that moment does not, however, establish when it appeared.
This is where an earlier record helps: a photograph may show that a crack was already visible before work began. The report provides a concrete reference beyond individual memories.
The surrounding areas matter too
A report may cover interiors and façades, as well as areas used by the construction team: access routes, common areas, pavements, roads and outdoor features. Depending on the work planned, a neighbouring area may be as relevant as the building itself.
The scope is therefore adapted to each situation. General views show the setting, while closer photographs illustrate the features recorded. A crack remains clearly linked to a particular wall, floor or stretch of pavement.
A record that remains available
A project may last several months and involve different teams. The report preserves a reference even when the people involved change. It can be consulted for a specific discussion or revisited in a report after the work.
This approach is also useful when everything goes well: it simply keeps a record of the premises. The report describes observed facts; determining the cause of damage remains a matter for technical assessment.
