Pre-mining inspections

Pre-mining inspections record the property’s condition before subsidence from active mining begins. It ensures property owners are fairly compensated if subsidence damage occurs.

From 1 July 2025, a mandatory pre-mining inspection is required for properties located in designated zones where underground coal mining is planned.

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What is a pre-mining inspection

A pre-mining inspection (PMI) is a visual inspection that documents the condition of your property, including:

  • structural features (walls, ceilings, foundations)
  • external elements (pools, driveways, sheds)
  • photographic documentation of visible defects

Further detail on what is included in a PMI is available in the PMI report template (PDF 211.19KB).

PMIs are co-ordinated by Subsidence Advisory and:

  • are free of charge
  • take approximately 2 hours to complete for a standard property
  • are conducted by either Subsidence Advisory or a nominated consultant
  • must be completed before subsidence impacts occur.

Additional information can be found in the PMI factsheet (PDF 138.08KB) and the step-by-step process is outlined in the PMI infographic below.

Download Pre-mining inspection process infographic JPG 1.57MB Image last updated on: 23 May 2025.

Note: PMIs are separate from other types of inspections mining companies may be required to complete as part of their legal obligations under different legislation, such as the Mining Act 1992.

Mandatory pre-mining inspection zones

Properties within mandatory PMI zones will be identified by Subsidence Advisory NSW. If your property falls within one of these zones, you will be notified by mail, email, or in person.

Download Wyee mandatory PMI zone LW40 JPG 519.63KB Image last updated on: 22 September 2025.
A map showing the area in Wyee, NSW where a pre-mining inspection is required before Centennial begins mining Longwall 40 at Mandalong mine in March 2026.

This map shows the area in Wyee, NSW where a pre-mining inspection is required before Centennial begins mining Longwall 40 at Mandalong mine in March 2026. Property owners will receive a letter and at least three notifications from Subsidence Advisory NSW.

Timeframes

If you have received a PMI notification, you will be provided with a timeframe to book your inspection, including a cut-off date. We will make at least 3 contact attempts using different methods to assist in scheduling.

Next steps

Once your PMI is complete:

  • You will receive a copy of the report.
  • Subsidence Advisory will store the report securely.
  • Updates to the PMI may be required if there are significant changes to the property such as renovations, to ensure records remain current.
  • The report will only be shared with the mining company if a compensation claim is lodged and reaches the assessment stage.

Properties outside of mandatory zones

Requests for voluntary PMI’s are assessed on a case-by-case basis. 

You can contact subsidenceadvisory@customerservice.nsw.gov.au to discuss a voluntary PMI request.

Contact us

For questions or to schedule your inspection, contact:
Phone: (02) 4908 4300
Email: subsidenceadvisory@customerservice.nsw.gov.au

Related information

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