Dilapidations

A watertight dilapidations strategy can help Landlords and Tenants save thousands.

Dilapidations refer to the condition of a property during a tenancy or at lease end, typically relating to disrepair and obligations under the lease for maintenance and decoration.

Schedules of dilapidations can have significant financial implications for tenants, who have a contractual responsibility to return a property to the landlord in an agreed state of repair. It’s essential for tenants to understand these obligations fully, take proactive steps before signing a lease, and plan ahead for the dilapidations process well ahead of lease expiry.

Whether you’re a tenant or landlord, timely and expert advice is key to achieving a fair outcome and avoiding unexpected costs.

We have extensive experience representing both landlords and tenants throughout the lease lifecycle. Our clients range from sole traders and small businesses to multinational corporations and major high street retailers.

How we can help you:

Tenants

1. Advice on likely dilapidations liability prior to entering into a Full Repairing and Insuring Lease including preparation of a Schedule of Condition if necessary.
2. Assessment of dilapidations liability either during the term or at lease expiry.
3. Advice and tactics on limiting the extent of any potential claim
4. Negotiating scope of works or financial settlement.
5. Arranging for repair and redecoration works to be carried to comply with the terms of the lease.
6. Advice on Break Clauses

Landlords

1. Early advice on identifying client’s objectives to prepare an effective dilapidations strategy to achieve the best outcome
2. Preparation of accurate claims (either during the lease term or at expiry) taking into account all valid breaches of disrepair and alterations to the property that will stand up to legal scrutiny. This will reduce the time it takes to agree a claim for damages.
3. Negotiation of financial settlement in a timely manner
4. Monitoring tenant’s works
5. Advice on Break Clauses

For more information on how we can help you: