What are dilapidations?
When I first started with Primera the term dilapidation took on a new meaning, I’d always thought it was exclusively about a building being in a state of disrepair and decay but in fact I soon learnt that the term ‘dilapidations’ is multifaceted.
The definition of dilapidations
The definition of dilapidations are the works required at the end of a tenancy to return a property to its original condition. Essentially putting it back to how it had been previously, before the let began. This could involve undertaking minor repairs and maintenance, applying a fresh coat of paint, replacing old flooring to removing large alterations, like a mezzanine floor or stud walling. These works are a cost for the tenant to undertake and to be completed before they vacate the premises.
What is a schedule of dilapidations?
In a tenancy lease there will be certain obligations that the tenant will be required to do to maintain the property in a good condition, and to return it in a good condition as well. The tenant will receive what is called a schedule of dilapidations towards the end of their lease by the landlord. This will be based on a dilapidation report or survey undertaken by a chartered surveyor following instruction by the landlord, to assess the condition of the property in advance of the conclusion of the tenancy agreement. The schedule of dilapidations is a formal document and failure to undertake the repairs or reinstatements is considered a breach of the lease and could lead to a dispute with the landlord.
Dilapidation works could involve 3 areas:
Decoration and maintenance works
Works to reinstate alterations or additions made
Repairs to bring the property back to an acceptable condition
Our advice
Considering dilapidations works early, this will help to prevent any potential for dispute and help to minimise costs. Undertaking good general maintenance throughout a tenancy is important, so that hopefully larger costs can be avoided at the end of an agreement.
How can Primera help?
Well, Primera can help in two ways.
Firstly, we specialise in dilapidations works so regardless of the scale of the works outlined in the schedule of dilapidations we can cater for all the services required to bring the property back to the agreed condition, so from decorating to maintenance, or works to reinstate or remove larger alterations. We have specialist, skilled and competent trades on hand and can tailor ourselves to suit our client’s specific requirements. We will support you through each stage of the process and find cost effective solutions for the work required.
Secondly, we can help with general maintenance works, to ensure that a tenanted property remains in great condition throughout the duration of the lease. This can be from decoration works, plumbing, heating, and electrical solutions, to replacing ceiling tiles or even freshening old flooring. We can undertake all types of general building repairs.
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