When it comes to building safety and longevity, the facade is one of the most critical elements to monitor. In Australia, property owners, strata committees, and building managers are often faced with the question: should we rely on a DIY facade check, or is a professional facade condition assessment the smarter move? The answer depends on your building’s age, size, and compliance requirements.
This article unpacks the differences, benefits, and drawbacks of both approaches, helping you decide which option is right for your building.
Why Facade Inspections Matter
Your building’s facade isn’t just about aesthetics—it protects against weather, ensures structural safety, and supports energy efficiency. Neglecting inspections can lead to water ingress, concrete spalling, falling debris, and very costly repairs. In Australia, facade safety check requirements are tightening, particularly for high-rise and strata-titled properties. Choosing between DIY or professional inspection can mean the difference between peace of mind and major liability.
What Is a DIY Facade Inspection?
A DIY facade inspection is essentially a self-check done by property owners, building managers, or maintenance staff. It usually involves looking at the building from the ground or accessible points with binoculars, cameras, or even drones.
What You Might Do in a DIY Check
- Walk the perimeter looking for cracks, stains, or loose materials.
- Use binoculars or drones for higher areas.
- Check for signs of leaks, corrosion, or concrete spalling.
- Take photos to document issues for reference.
Pros of DIY Checks
- Very low cost.
- Can be done anytime without waiting for contractors.
- Useful for spotting small, obvious issues like peeling paint or minor leaks.
Cons of DIY Checks
- Hard to see everything, especially at height.
- Lack of technical know-how means problems can be missed.
- No compliance recognition.
- Can’t give accurate repair scope or costs.
What Is a Professional Facade Condition Assessment?
A professional facade condition assessment is a detailed evaluation by licensed consultants or engineers. Companies like CPR Facade Upgrade Specialists use scaffold-free™, rope-access technologies such as MARS™, PEARS®, and SkyPod® to get close to every part of the facade.
What’s Included
- Rope-access inspections covering the full facade.
- Dilapidation surveys that divide the facade into grids.
- Mapping and documenting every defect, from hairline cracks to major weaknesses.
- A professional report that outlines scope, compliance requirements, and repair costs. (See CPR’s Defects Assessment Scope & Report)
Pros of Professional Assessments
- Every inch of the facade is checked.
- Defects are accurately identified and prioritised.
- Reports meet compliance and regulatory standards.
- Provides a clear plan for repair and maintenance.
- Peace of mind for owners and managers.
Cons of Professional Assessments
- Higher upfront cost.
- Needs scheduling and access arrangements.
DIY vs Professional: The Key Differences
| Factor | DIY Facade Inspection | Professional Facade Condition Assessment |
| Cost | Very low | Higher, depending on scope |
| Accuracy | Basic, visual only | Detailed and precise |
| Access | Limited | Full facade with rope access systems |
| Compliance | Not compliant | Meets Australian laws and regulations |
| Risk of Missing Issues | High | Low |
| Reporting | Informal notes/photos | Comprehensive defect report |
Common Facade Problems in Australia
Australian buildings often face recurring issues like:
- Concrete spalling from water ingress.
- Leaks and waterproofing failures.
- Non-compliant or unsafe cladding.
- Paint deterioration indicating deeper damage.
- Cracks from extreme weather changes.
The Role of Compliance
Different states in Australia have varying facade compliance requirements, but the trend is clear: inspections are becoming stricter. In NSW and VIC, certain buildings require periodic professional inspections. DIY checks cannot replace these. Only professional inspection services can confirm compliance with facade safety regulations.
When DIY Checks Make Sense
DIY inspections are useful for:
- Routine checks every few months.
- Identifying cosmetic issues early.
- Monitoring between professional assessments.
- Small, low-rise buildings with minimal compliance requirements.
They are never a substitute for formal inspections.
When to Call the Professionals
Professional facade condition assessments are needed when:
- A building is 10+ years old.
- You manage a high-rise or strata property.
- Compliance is required by law.
- Major issues like leaks or spalling are visible.
- Insurance or regulators require a formal report.
- You’re planning long-term maintenance or remediation.
What Does It Cost?
- DIY costs: Almost nothing beyond binoculars, drones, and time.
- Professional costs: Typically between $3,000 and $20,000 for medium to large strata buildings, depending on complexity.
While professional assessments cost more, they prevent extremely expensive failures later. A small leak missed during a DIY check could cost hundreds of thousands to fix.
Tips for Ongoing Facade Care
- Do regular DIY visual checks.
- Book professional inspections every 5–7 years.
- Keep waterproofing systems in good order.
- Repair cracks early.
- Keep gutters and drainage clear.
- Use preservation services like AfterCare™ for long-term maintenance.
Choosing the Right Inspection Service
When selecting a professional service, look for:
- Experience with high-rise and difficult access buildings.
- Scaffold-free™ technology that avoids disruption.
- Knowledge of local facade compliance laws.
- Proven quality systems like ASP’s™, SFS360®, and SE2EPC®.
- Clear reports with photos and repair recommendations.
Companies like CPR Facade Upgrade Specialists combine all of this, offering safe, compliant, and cost-effective inspection services.
Final Thoughts
DIY checks are great for regular monitoring, but when it comes to safety, compliance, and long-term savings, professional facade condition assessments are essential. In Australia, they’re not just advisable—they’re often required by law. The best strategy is a mix of both: DIY for early detection and professional assessments for compliance and peace of mind.
Next Step: Ensure your building’s safety and compliance today. Learn more about CPR’s professional facade remedial consultancy services and their Defects Assessment Scope & Report for a complete solution.
