Dilapidations

As a lease approaches its end, it’s common for the Landlord to appoint a Surveyor to inspect the property and identify any breaches of the repairing obligations set out in the lease. From this inspection, the Surveyor will prepare a Schedule of Dilapidations, which is usually served on the Tenant via a Solicitor.

This schedule provides a detailed breakdown of the breaches of covenant, the remedial works required, and the estimated costs. These costs often form the basis of negotiations between Landlord and Tenant - whether the Tenant chooses to complete the works or prefers to reach a financial settlement.

For Tenants, receiving a Schedule of Dilapidations can be daunting. However, you have the right to appoint your own Surveyor to carefully review the Landlord’s claims, prepare a response (often in the form of a Scott Schedule) and negotiate on your behalf. This ensures that only reasonable works and costs are pursued, and can often reduce your overall liability.

For Landlords, ensuring that a well-prepared and accurate Schedule is served is essential to protect the value of your asset and to enforce the Tenant’s obligations fairly.

At Result Surveying, we regularly act for both Landlords and Tenants across Yorkshire - including in Huddersfield, Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Sheffield, and York. Our role is to provide clear, practical advice, manage negotiations effectively, and, where necessary, oversee repair works through procurement and project management.

Whether you are a Landlord looking to safeguard your property, or a Tenant seeking reassurance and expert defence against unfair claims, we can support you throughout the entire dilapidations process.

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Frequently Asked Questions…

A Schedule of Dilapidations is a document prepared by a Surveyor on behalf of the Landlord which identifies breaches of the lease repairing obligations. It sets out the necessary repairs or reinstatement works, along with the costs, to bring the property back to the required standard.
A Tenant should seek advice as soon as they receive a Schedule of Dilapidations from the Landlord. Appointing a Surveyor early allows them to review the claims, challenge unreasonable items, and negotiate a fair settlement. Some Tenants also appoint a Surveyor before lease end to minimise liabilities in advance.
- Interim Dilapidations: Served during the term of the lease, usually when the Landlord wants to ensure the Tenant is maintaining the property correctly.
- Terminal Dilapidations: Served at or shortly after the lease ends, setting out the final repairs or settlement costs required.
The timeframe can vary depending on the size of the property, the extent of the issues, and how quickly both parties are willing to negotiate. Some cases are resolved in a matter of weeks, while more complex disputes can take several months.
We provide Dilapidation services for both Landlords and Tenants right across Yorkshire. This includes Huddersfield, Leeds, Bradford, Wakefield, Sheffield, and York, as well as the surrounding areas.
If you’re based in Yorkshire and need support with dilapidations, please get in touch and we’ll be happy to confirm how we can help.