Dilapidations Expertise Matters
03 November 2025Dilapidations sit at the centre of most commercial lease exits, yet they can be one of the most misunderstood areas of property management. At its core, dilapidations refer to breaches of a tenant’s repairing obligations during or at the end of a lease. Straightforward in theory, rarely simple in practice.
Landlords want clarity. Tenants want fairness. Both want to avoid unnecessary cost and delay. The right surveyor has enough dilpidations expertise to help keep the process grounded in evidence, not assumption.
What actually sits behind a dilapidations claim
By the end of a commercial lease in England and Wales, most tenants should expect a Schedule of Dilapidations. This sets out outstanding repairs, reinstatement obligations and compliance issues. After the lease ends, the landlord may follow with a Quantified Demand, which details the financial loss they believe has been caused.
Tenants have 56 days to respond with their position, supported by their surveyor. Both sides then negotiate to narrow the differences. It is a structured process, and the Dilapidations Protocol sets the expectations for how each party should behave.
Why dilapidations expertise aids clarity early on
For tenants, understanding repairing liabilities before signing a lease can limit risk later. A Schedule of Condition, properly recorded and appended, can save significant cost at the end of the term.
During occupation, planning ahead for reinstatement and potential repairs prevents surprises. Near lease end, an experienced surveyor can assess whether works should be completed before exit or whether it is more sensible to wait for the landlord’s Quantified Demand.
For landlords, timing is critical. Notices for reinstatement, clear intentions for the property and a robust Schedule of Dilapidations all set the foundation for a defensible claim. Surveyors must endorse the landlord’s position, so honest instructions are essential.
When disputes become more complex
Not every case is straightforward. Redevelopment plans, specialist installations, valuation disputes or loss of rent can all influence the outcome. In those situations, additional expertise may be required, from valuation surveyors to mechanical or environmental specialists.
Alternative Dispute Resolution is also common. Mediation, arbitration or expert determination can resolve matters more efficiently than litigation.
The value of an experienced building surveyor
Dilapidations have the potential to become contentious quickly. An experienced surveyor should have enough dilapidations expertise to keep expectations realistic, reduces unnecessary cost and helps both parties reach a fair settlement. At TCL, our team works across commercial and residential property, giving clients a clear understanding of their position from the outset.
In a process that often feels opaque, expertise brings confidence. It also brings pace, precision and fewer surprises.
If you need guidance on a current lease, an upcoming exit or a potential claim, we are here to help – call us today on 020 3176 0029
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