Thanks Gee Cee, Farone and Ram.
Yes, if a property was built pre 85 and has had no improvements, there may not be alot of depreciation there to claim. Much will depend on the Assets (Fixtures and Fittings) in the property. If we don't think the cost of commisioning a Schedule is viable, we will explain this. And I will discuss with people how they can 'self-assess' the value of some Assets. That means they can still claim depreciation, it's just that they won't have to pay anyone to access it. There's no point spending $600 odd dollars on a Schedule if there is only, say, $400 in depreciation there in the first full year. I'd say other reputable firms would do likewise.
The vast majority of property investors only buy one property. That's why there are some companies (not just in our industry - brokers, pre-purchase inspectors etc) that prey on them. They don't care about repeat business, so they 'burn' first time clients knowing that there wasn't much chance of repeat business from them anyway.
To add to Farone's comment. On a new property (house or unit), the 'actual costs' are generally available and must be used. The ATO is very clear about this. If actual costs can be obtained, they should be used instead of an estimate.
Scott