What Is A Dilapidation Contractor?

A dilapidation contractor is a specialist who helps to restore commercial or residential properties to their original condition.

This happens at the end of the lease agreement and is a way to ensure that both tenants and landlords comply with the lease terms and conditions. They will handle things such as:

• General repairs
• Renovations
• Redecorations
• RICS compliance
• Dilapidation surveys

Keep reading for a deep dive into the specific tasks a dilapidation contractor undertakes, and why your property and you could benefit from their services.

 

What Are Dilapidations?

“Dilapidations refers to breaches of lease covenants that relate to the condition of a property during the term of the tenancy or when the lease ends.”– RICS

Dilapidations services address any wear and tear or major damage that has occurred during the term of a lease. A schedule of dilapidations (a document provided by the landlord at the end of the lease) outlines the obligations and work required to restore the property to its original condition, ready for the next tenant. This document will note:

• Structural damage
• Worn-out fixtures
• Unusable elements of the building
• Restorations needed
• Internal and external repairs

When a lease contract ends, it is the responsibility of either the landlord or tenant to complete the dilapidation works before the property is returned to the landlord or leased to a new person.

 

Common Dilapidation Services

There are a few dilapidation services that are common across the board when it comes to restoring properties to their original condition.

Flooring and Walls Repairs

In high-traffic areas, flooring is one of the main aspects that needs repair or sometimes replacement. This is especially true in warehouse buildings or commercial properties where machinery may be used, and there is high foot traffic. Wall repairs sometimes tend to come hand in hand with floor repairs; however, usually they need less maintenance than the flooring.

Structural Repairs

Things such as ceilings, support beams, and walls are common places where damage occurs. These will need to be rectified to ensure the building is safe and compliant.

Utility Restorations

A dilapidation contractor will inspect, repair, and maybe even replace any faulty and damaged plumbing fixtures, electrical systems, and HVAC units.

External Repairs

Restoring the building to its original condition doesn’t stop at the interior of the property; it also includes the exterior. Roofing, external walls, and loading bays will be inspected and may need to be repaired or replaced depending on the level of deterioration and damage.

 

What Does A Dilapidations Contractor Do?

A dilapidations contractor needs to have specialised experience and understanding of building maintenance, legal and compliance requirements, and project management. They carry out every element of dilapidation works from dilapidation surveys to the completion of the project.

 

Dilapidation Surveys and Costings

When a dilapidation contractor performs a survey, they will be looking for and assessing any changes and damages that go against the lease agreement. They will then provide the most cost-effective solutions for the repairs that need to be made.

 

Reinstatement Works

A dilapidation contractor will perform reinstatement works, such as tenant alterations and returning the space to its original form. Things like lighting fixtures that may have been added, partitioning devices, or even branding of the business that rented the space will need to be removed.

 

Repairs and Refurbishments

All repairs and refurbishments fall to the appointed dilapidation contractor on the job. They will fix general damages to things like floors, ceilings, cladding, and walls, but also keep an eye on any mechanical or electrical systems that need repairing or a complete replacement.

 

Site Clearance

Site clearance is also an important part of a dilapidation contractor’s job. They will ensure the site is cleared of any debris from repairs and ready for the next tenant, but also handle specialised tasks like the removal of asbestos.

 

Compliance

Throughout the entire project, a dilapidation contractor will ensure that regulations are met, and that all repair works are compliant with the RICS Dilapidations Protocol.

 

Projects A Dilapidations Contractor Can Take On

Dilapidations contractors, such as Jarvale, specialise in returning commercial properties to their original state. Some contractors may have experience and expertise in one area, such as office dilapidations contractors, or a warehouse dilapidations contractor. However, with Jarvale, we have experience in all types of commercial dilapidations, including offices, warehouses, industrial units, retail sites, and more.

Although the process of a dilapidation project will be the same, the type of business can alter the details required. For example, in a warehouse dilapidation project, it’s more than likely that floors will need to be replaced due to heavy machinery and footfall. Whereas an office or retail unit might not need as much attention to the floor, but could need branding removed from walls, etc.

If you have a commercial dilapidations project that you need help with, Jarvale have over 50 years of experience in the construction industry and dilapidations. Contact us today to see how our dilapidations contractors can assist you with your project.