Schedule of Dilapidations
A Schedule of Dilapidations is a formal report prepared at the end of a commercial lease that identifies breaches of the tenant’s repair, maintenance or reinstatement obligations.
At Cowie Consulting, our Chartered Surveyors prepare detailed Schedules of Dilapidations that assess the condition of a property and determine what works may be required to comply with the terms of the lease.
The schedule forms the basis for negotiations between landlord and tenant, helping both parties reach a fair financial settlement without the need for costly legal proceedings.
When is a Schedule of Dilapidations Prepared?
Schedules of Dilapidations are most commonly prepared:
At the end of a commercial lease
When a tenant vacates the property, the landlord may commission a schedule to assess whether the tenant has met their repairing obligations.
Shortly before lease expiry
An interim or terminal schedule may be prepared in advance to identify works that the tenant may choose to complete before leaving the property.
During lease negotiations
In some situations, a schedule may be prepared during the lease term if there are concerns regarding maintenance responsibilities.
Who We Act For?
For landlords, a Schedule of Dilapidations helps protect the value of the property and ensures that tenants meet the obligations set out in the lease.
Our service includes:
- Inspection of the property and identification of lease breaches
- Preparation of a detailed Schedule of Dilapidations
- Assessment of necessary repair and reinstatement works
- Cost estimates where appropriate
- Professional support during negotiations with the tenant
Where significant claims arise, our surveyors can also provide expert representation during dilapidations negotiations.
Tenants often appoint a surveyor to review and respond to a landlord’s Schedule of Dilapidations.
Our Chartered Surveyors can:
- Review the landlord’s schedule and assess its validity
- Identify items that fall outside the tenant’s lease obligations
- Prepare a formal response or Scott Schedule
- Negotiate a fair financial settlement on the tenant’s behalf
This professional representation can significantly reduce potential dilapidations liabilities.
RICS - Regulated Dilapidations Advice.
Dilapidations claims can involve complex legal and technical considerations. It is essential that surveys are carried out by qualified professionals who understand both building pathology and commercial lease obligations.
Cowie Consulting Ltd is an RICS-regulated Chartered Surveying practice, meaning our work is carried out in accordance with the professional standards of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).
Our clients benefit from:
- Experienced Chartered Surveyors
- Independent, professional advice
- Clear and structured reporting
- Support throughout dilapidations negotiations
HERE TO HELP
An opening discussion, not only in relation to condition, is important but, in these changing times, reviewing possible development potential can also be extremely beneficial.
Our discussions are fluid, practical and focused on your objectives, and we are always on hand to help and guide you.
