OFFICE DILAPIDATIONS

Do you need to carry out office dilapidations and dilapidation work repairs according to your lease?

Office dilapidations refer to the state of repair (noting any damages) or structural modifications made to commercial premises throughout a lease. Most often discussed at the end of a lease, dilapidations are considered ‘exit costs’ for a commercial tenant.

When a commercial tenancy concludes, the landlord (or an agent) conducts a ‘state of repair report,’ comparing it to the initial inspection from the lease’s start. Any identified damages or changes are referred to as, ‘dilapidations’ and must be repaired before the lease ends, including re-decorating if necessary.

The lease typically stipulates that the property should be returned to its original state. Businesses often modify their workspace to suit their needs, but tenants must restore the property to its original condition before moving. Understanding dilapidations is crucial during relocations!

Dilapidation tasks

Dilapidation tasks address the decline or disrepair of a leased property, crucial for both landlords and tenants. Key aspects include:

Preparing Budgets and Assessing Costs: Accurate cost assessment and strategy development are essential to manage financial obligations and minimise surprises at lease end.

Assembling a Project Team: A team of professionals, including chartered surveyors and building consultants, ensures efficient dilapidation handling with clear communication and tailored solutions.

Dilapidations Protocol: This protocol provides guidelines for fair and independent assessment of dilapidations, benefiting all involved parties.