Schedule of Dilapidations

The Schedule of Dilapidations is a legal document containing a list of repairs and maintenance work needed for a property that has been leased by a tenant. It outlines the responsibilities of the tenant to maintain the property in good condition during the lease and the repairs they need to carry out before vacating the property.

The schedule of dilapidations is usually prepared by the landlord or their representative and serves as a reference for assessing the costs of repairing the damages at the end of the lease. It is an important tool in ensuring that the tenant fulfils their obligations under the lease agreement and helps to avoid disputes between landlords and tenants.

Whether you are a Landlord or Tenant, our team of commercial dispute solicitors in London can provide help with a schedule of dilapidation related issues.

For legal advice on dilapidations and disrepair obligations, speak to our commercial dispute solicitors on 020 3417 3700 or fill in the online enquiry form.

Table of Contents

1. What is the Schedule of Dilapidations?
2. What is included in the Schedule of Dilapidations?
3. Types of Schedule of Dilapidations
4. Why choose Wembley Solicitors?
5. Need legal advice & assistance?

What is the Schedule of Dilapidations?

A Schedule of Dilapidations, commonly referred to as a dilapidations schedule, is a document that outlines the disrepair or breaches of lease obligations identified in a commercial property.

It provides a record of the condition of the property at the end of the lease and lists the repairs or remedial works required to restore the property to its agreed-upon or lease-specified condition. The Schedule of Dilapidations serves as a basis for negotiations or potential legal proceedings between the landlord and tenant regarding the necessary rectifications or financial compensation.

What is included in the Schedule of Dilapidations?

The Schedule of Dilapidations generally includes the following information:

1. Description of the property: It provides details about the leased commercial property, including its address, size, and any specific features or characteristics relevant to the dilapidation claims.
2. Lease details: This section includes information about the lease, such as the start and end dates, relevant clauses, and any specific obligations related to repairs, maintenance, or reinstatement.
3. Breaches and disrepair: The schedule lists the specific breaches of lease covenants or disrepair issues identified during the assessment of the property. This can cover a wide range of aspects, including structural elements, fixtures, fittings, alterations, decorations, or general maintenance.
4. Photographic evidence: The schedule may include photographs or other visual evidence to support the identified breaches or disrepair. This helps document the current condition of the property and supports the claims made by the landlord.
5. Cost estimates: Depending on the stage of the dilapidations process, the schedule may include an estimate of the costs required to rectify the identified breaches or undertake the necessary repairs and reinstatement works. This can help provide a basis for negotiations or potential legal proceedings.

Types of Schedule of Dilapidations

Below is the list of three main types of Schedule of Dilapidations commonly used in the UK:

1. Interim Schedule of Dilapidations
2. Terminal Schedule of Dilapidations
3. Final Schedule of Dilapidations

1. Interim Schedule of Dilapidations

An Interim Schedule of Dilapidations is prepared and served by the landlord or their surveyor during the lease term before the lease expires. It is typically used to identify and address ongoing breaches of lease obligations or repairs required during the lease. The purpose of an Interim Schedule is to prompt the tenant to rectify any breaches or carry out necessary repairs promptly, rather than waiting until the lease's end.

2. Terminal Schedule of Dilapidations

A Terminal Schedule of Dilapidations is prepared and served by the landlord or their surveyor near the end of the lease term or when the tenant vacates the property. It aims to identify and address the dilapidations that have accumulated throughout the lease term and should be rectified before the property is handed back to the landlord. The Terminal Schedule of Dilapidations provides a comprehensive assessment of the property's condition at the end of the lease and forms the basis for negotiating a settlement or initiating legal proceedings if necessary.

3. Final Schedule of Dilapidations

A Final Schedule of Dilapidations is prepared and served by the landlord or their surveyor after the lease has expired in the event that required repairs haven’t been carried out. It is similar to Terminal Schedule and it will generally set out in detail what works are needed.

Why choose Wembley Solicitors?

• We have extensive knowledge and experience in dealing with commercial property dilapidation claims.
• Our commercial property solicitors charge an affordable fee without blowing your budget and with no hidden costs.
• We provide professional legal advice and assistance at every step and keep you updated as your matter progresses.
• We provide legal services remotely throughout England and Wales. You do not need to physically attend our office.
• We have a team of qualified and accredited solicitors.
• We are authorised and regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), so you know you are in safe hands.

We provide legal advice and services to both landlords and tenants. Call our commercial property solicitor today at 020 3417 3700 for more information about our services.