Dilapidations Surveyor London Landlords
As the best dilapidations surveyor London landlords can use, let us breakdown what this service actually is.
A dilapidations surveyor conducts a comprehensive assessment of a building prior to, during or at the end of a lease. The subsequent report, known as a Schedule of Dilapidations, provides an objective appraisal of dilapidations that can be used to help determine liability for repairs or restorative works.
What Is a Dilapidations Surveyor?
Both a tenant and/or landlord can commission a dilapidations surveyor to assess the condition of a building. A dilapidations survey can be carried out prior to the commencement of a lease, so that both parties can rely on it when assessing the future condition of the building during or at the end of the lease. In addition to this, dilapidations surveys may be undertaken during or at the culmination of a lease so that the condition of the building can be independently assessed.
Dilapidations Surveyor in Commercial Leases
A building can undergo significant changes during the course of a commercial lease, which is why it is so important for dilapidations surveys to be carried out. A dilapidations survey can identify the condition of the property at the start of the lease, which can then be relied upon when assessing what repairs are required in the future.
Every commercial lease contains a number of covenants that set out what the tenant is or is not permitted to do. A dilapidations survey can help to determine whether the tenant has breached any of these covenants and, if so, what needs to be done to return to the property to the appropriate condition.
Choosing a Dilapidations Surveyor in London
Finding the right dilapidations surveyor in London is essential, if you want to ensure that your Schedules of Dilapidations meet current legislative requirements. Whether you’re a landlord or tenant, you’ll want to work with an experienced dilapidations surveyor who can provide the expert service you need to protect your interests.
When searching for a dilapidations surveyor in London, remember to check the following:
Chartered Status
Working with a chartered surveyor gives you confidence that they meet the highest industry standards. Having undertaken training approved by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and subject to RICS regulation, a chartered surveyor is recognised for their ability, experience and competence.
Dilapidations Experience
While a surveyor may have plenty of experience, this doesn’t necessarily mean that they have carried out numerous dilapidations surveys. To ensure your surveyor has the requisite experience, be sure to ask them about their previous work compiling Schedules of Dilapidations for both landlords and tenants.
Residential vs Commercial
Before you commission a survey, check whether your surveyor has experience in both residential and commercial work. Some surveyors specialise in either residential or commercial properties, which could mean they have limited experience carrying out the type of survey you need.
Guide to Dilapidations Reports
A dilapidations report is commonly referred to as a ‘Schedule of Dilapidations’ and it provides a detailed overview of the current condition of the building. Covering things such as general wear and tear, alterations and damage, a Schedule of Dilapidations can be used to help resolve disputes regarding the tenant’s obligation to repair or reinstate the building to its pre-let condition.
For example, you may want to compare a Schedule of Dilapidations to a Schedule of Conditions compiled at the start of the tenancy, in conjunction with the tenancy agreement, to establish what disrepair has occurred and which party is liable for it.
Benefits of a Specialist Dilapidations Surveyor
Working with a specialist dilapidations surveyor ensures you benefit from their experience and expertise, as well as their detailed knowledge and insight. At TCL Surveyors, we have more than 13 years’ experience in dilapidations, as well as contract administration, building pathology and licence for alteration. To find out more or to schedule a dilapidations survey, contact us now on 020 3176 0029 or email us at info@tcl-surveyors.co.uk.