What Is A Dilapidation Survey?

A dilapidation survey is an inspection report that is typically used for rented-out commercial properties. It will identify any breaches of contract at the end of the tenancy by assessing:

• The repairs that are needed to get the property back to its original state
• Any maintenance needed
• The decorative state of the building

A Dilapidation survey is especially useful if you plan to rent out the property after the current contract ends. It will ensure that the building is in the same condition it was in originally and prevent untrue claims regarding existing damages, etc.

Keep reading to learn more about dilapidation surveys, including what they involve and how much they might cost.

 

When Would I Need A Dilapidation Survey?

Both tenants and landlords can undertake a dilapidations survey to assess and document the state of the property, including infrastructure and wear and tear. You can have a dilapidations survey performed between 6 and 12 months from the end of the contract. This will allow for time to manage the tasks that might need to be undertaken as a result of the survey.

A dilapidations survey will outline the exact conditions of the property in its current form, without bias, as it will be performed by an outside source. This can come in useful in the event of a dispute, as it will hold detailed evidence you need to support your case, but also be a handy way of keeping a record of the property, too.

Contractors & Developers

Not only is a dilapidation survey good for tenants and landlords, but contractors and developers can benefit from one too. This can be especially useful when needing to protect yourself from claims that you damaged a property you worked/are working on.

With a dilapidation survey, you will have evidence of the condition the property was in before and after you began working on it.

 

What Are the Benefits of a Dilapidation Survey?

There are many benefits to undertaking commercial dilapidation surveys for both landlords and tenants. With a survey, you can:

• Identify disrepairs and maintain property value
• Help tenants understand their liabilities under the lease
• Create a plan for the required works
• Understand the budget of required works
• Ensure the property can be re-let without delays
• Create a document of important factors in case of claims against you

If you’re a tenant, you will also benefit from understanding your potential liabilities during the lease.

 

What Does A Dilapidations Survey Involve?

Thorough Inspection

A qualified surveyor or contractor will perform a detailed inspection of the physical structure, the fixtures and fittings, and any systems that are included with the property.

Detailed Documentation

You will receive documentation that includes detailed written records and measurements, alongside visual supporting evidence of the condition of the building. The visual evidence may be in the form of photos and/or videos, depending on the surveyor’s choice, and will document parts of the building such as the walls, floor, ceilings, and even exterior features.

Required Work

Once the inspection has been completed, a report will be created, which will outline the specific areas that need work to meet the lease standards and bring the property back to its original condition.

Estimated Costs and Timescales

Alongside the report of the required work, an estimate of the cost of repairs and the timeline for the required work will be included, so you know what to expect.

Schedule of Condition

A schedule of conditions is a report that compares the condition of the building against the lease agreement and its condition at the start of the tenancy. This ensures that both tenants and the landlord have met their lease obligations.

Who Can Perform A Dilapidations Survey?

A Dilapidations survey needs to be performed by either a professional surveyor or a dilapidations contractor. They have specialised experience and understanding of building maintenance, project management, and the legal and compliance requirements needed for your building.

 

In the case of a dilapidations contractor, they will not only undertake the dilapidation survey, but they will also complete the work listed in the survey.

How Much Does A Dilapidation Survey Cost?

The cost of a dilapidation survey for a commercial property will all depend on the complexity of the survey and the size of the building. For these reasons, a survey could cost anywhere from £500 to £5,000+. This typically includes:

• Surveyor fees
• Schedule of condition
• The scope of the survey
• Preparing a schedule of dilapidations
• Access equipment (if needed)

For smaller/medium-sized properties, you should expect to pay around £500 to £1,500, whereas larger properties will be anywhere from £2,000 to £5,000+.

Dilapidations Services with Jarvale

Jarvale has over 50 years of experience working not only within the construction industry, but also performing dilapidation services. We are accredited contractors with certifications from CHAS, Constructionline, and every team member carries CSCS cards.

With our dilapidation services, you can expect:

• Terminal schedules
• Interim schedules
• Reinstatement works
• Repairs and maintenance
• Negotiations and valuation services

If you’re a landlord or a tenant looking for dilapidation services, including a comprehensive dilapidation survey, contact us today to see how we can assist you.