RICS explains dilapidations in England and Wales, including the relationship between property condition, lease covenants and professional advice. A list of defects alone does not establish the agreed liability or settlement.
What the physical inspection contributes
The inspection records the relevant condition and alterations within its scope. Useful records identify locations, observed defects and supporting photographs. Access limitations and concealed areas need to be clear so later decisions do not assume they were inspected.
The findings may concern repairs, decoration or reinstatement. These should be described specifically enough to distinguish the required outcome from a broad instruction to put the property right.
Separate assessment from works pricing
A survey or schedule can provide the starting point for a contractor scope, but unresolved obligations need to be addressed by the responsible parties and advisers. A contractor prices the physical work described; that price does not decide a legal claim.
For agreed works, identify each task, the finish required, retained items and connected services. Removing a tenant installation may involve safe disconnection, disposal and making good. Those elements belong in the work package.
Plan the handover sequence
Occupation, relocation, strip-out and repairs can compete for the same access period. Agree when areas become available and how shared services or neighbouring occupiers are protected. The deadline should allow for inspections and correction of incomplete work.
Keep the agreed schedule linked to the completion record. Photographs and relevant technical documents help the parties assess what was done, while any remaining items need a clear status and next action.
Common questions
Is a dilapidation survey the same as a building condition survey?
No. A condition survey describes condition within its inspection scope. A dilapidation survey considers condition in the context of relevant lease obligations and its specific instruction.
Does the survey automatically become the agreed works list?
The responsible parties need to establish the instruction. A schedule can contain matters requiring clarification or agreement before they are authorised as physical works.
What helps a contractor price reinstatement accurately?
Provide the agreed schedule, photographs, required finish, access arrangements and any service information. Identify what stays, what is removed and the condition required at handover.
Related work and reading
Explore Dilapidations and Reinstatement, Strip-Out and Decommissioning and Building Fabric. Read refurbishment budgeting for the connected cost items. Browse services, projects, sectors and locations, or discuss agreed reinstatement work.