Dilapidations

In the case of either a commercial or residential lease there are usually obligations imposed upon the Tenant to keep the building (or a part) in good and tenantable condition. Dilapidations is a general term which covers a breach of covenant to repair a building or a part of a building, which is included in a Lease.

In straightforward terms, ‘dilapidations’ means that you, as a tenant, have to keep the property you’re leasing in good repair. That sounds simple, but, it can get complicated. As experts when it comes to property surveys in Hampstead & North London, that’s where we can help you.

Some of the complexities depend on how long your lease has left to run and if the landlord can issue a ‘schedule of dilapidations’ or an ‘interim schedule’. The location and age of the property can also be a factor. And the way the property has been looked after. As well as many other regulations.

Understanding the full extent and requirements of dilapidations really needs the experience and expertise of a charted surveyor in North London, covering areas such as Highgate, Islington, Muswell Hill and Hampstead, Which is why you should get in touch with us at your earliest opportunity.

We can act for either tenants or landlords; negotiate and settle claims or even, if necessary, act as an Expert Witness in court (hopefully things will be resolved long before that happens). It is also advisable for a tenant who is contemplating entering a lease on full (or partial) repairing terms, to seek the advice of a chartered surveyor in order to commission either a Building Survey or a Report on Condition.

If you have any questions about dilapidations, and how they might affect you, call Matthew Mulvany on (020) 852 91712 or 07584 133003.