Topographical surveys

An inventory is a report drawn up by an independent expert giving an accurate description of the state of a property.

For some works (tunnel drilling, placement of retaining piles, demolition, etc.), sudden problems or the appearance of cracks in local residents’ homes cannot be excluded. Existing structural defects (cracks, building instabilities, etc.) are located, photographed and described with a high level of precision. The difference between inventories before and after works are carried out allows any damage to property to be accurately ascertained. Obviously, the inventory does not establish the cause of any damage, but simply identifies it.

What constructions are subject to an inventory?

For large-scale infrastructure work, the following constructions may be subject to an inventory:

Properties adjacent to Infrabel's land or any land used by the contractor, regardless of the duration of the works
Residences on the roads used for transporting material and equipment
Properties adjacent to a public right-of-way or non-asphalted roads leading to the worksite, used for the heavy goods vehicles of the contractor (or its subcontractors, suppliers or any other party)
Properties of claimants emerging during the environmental study
Properties whose specific location justifies an inventory. The determining factors are:

- Prevailing winds during the works, which may cause the formation of dust

- Related interests: single access, single supply route

When is an inventory drawn up?

An inventory is drawn up before works begin, and again when they have been completed.

Who draws up the inventory?

The inventory is drawn up by an independent expert in the presence of the owner of the property, the contractor and the contracting authority.

How are the owners informed?

Local residents are usually informed by information leaflets that the expert will be drawing up an inventory. The expert will then contact the local residents.

What happens if damage is identified after the works?

Infrabel does everything it can to keep damage to a minimum.

However, if you identify damage, do not hesitate to contact us using our contact form. If it is proven that the damage was caused by Infrabel's works, the contractor must then compensate the owner(s) concerned.

What should you do if you have not been contacted about an inventory?

Do you believe you are entitled to an inventory but have not been contacted?

If so, contact us by phone on 0800 55 000 or using our contact form. Depending on your claims, Infrabel will assess whether the expert needs to visit you to draw up an inventory.