A Dilapidation Schedule is a valuable evaluation of a property that inspects and identifies any damages and repairs needed to a property. Used primarily for rented properties, Surveys and Schedules are useful to protect both the property, the landlord and the tenant from unexpected costs and are used to quickly settle any disputes.
It’s important to organise a Dilapidation Survey at the beginning of each tenancy agreement to keep a detailed record of the condition of your property. A Dilapidation Schedule, in comparison, is conducted at the end of the tenancy. If you’re a tenant, this will protect you from any unfair charges from damages that you did not cause, such as any repairs that were needed before you moved in. For landlords, they help to ensure that your property is well-kept and maintained between tenants.
So, what exactly is included in a Dilapidation Survey? Dilapidation Surveys are used to document the state of a property prior to a new tenant moving in. They typically include information about the building fabric, mechanical, gas, and electrical components, furnishings and decor, general wear and tear, and any repairs that need completing.
Our team has put together this short, useful guide to help you learn all the facts about these types of reports.
What Does a Dilapidation Survey Involve?
Dilapidation Reports involve a room-by-room inspection, including photographs, to look for any damages, required repairs or structural issues with a building. This will also include an external examination of any land, such as gardens, drives or car parks for large properties, such as offices. These surveys aim to set out the standards for the tenant to maintain during their lease agreement.
What’s Included in a Dilapidation Report?
Once your completed Dilapidation Report is complete, you’ll be provided with an in-depth report examining, but not limited to:
- Mould
- Stains
- Holes
- Damp and decay
- Plumbing conditions
- Wall/structure cracks
- Ventilation
- Blemishes
- Damages to surfaces
- Damages to fixtures/fittings
- Defects
- Assessment of accessible areas
- Assessment of fire exits
Each report will also document the time of completion, the weather conditions during the inspection, the areas of property examined and more. The completed Survey or Schedule of Dilapidation will provide all details of any specific tests included, and the following results.
It’s important to note that a survey is not the same as a valuation. A survey is a comprehensive report that details the condition of a property, while a valuation provides the predicted amount your property is worth on the current market.
Who Can Carry Out a Dilapidation Survey?
It’s important that who you choose to carry out your Dilapidation Report is a trained professional who is an external, non-bias third party member. This means that that person is in no way associated with either the landlord, or the tenant, and does not make any kind of benefit from completing the survey. This includes any type of financial or personal reward.
Can You Carry Out Your Own Survey Report?
No. Only trained and experienced building consultants or surveyors can perform a dilapidation schedule. They are highly complex documents and require training, certification and experience before conducting. For more information, explore the RICS Professional Guidance and Standards for dilapidations.
Dilapidation Surveys at Crest Chartered Surveyors
Crest Chartered Surveyors are experienced in all aspects of property valuations and surveying. If you require more information about Dilapidation Surveys or Schedules, contact one of our team members today to receive any help you need. We offer a thorough Dilapidation Survey that is quick and cost-effective to help you maintain the condition of your properties.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Dilapidation Survey?
A Dilapidation Survey is an in-depth report that provides details about the current condition of a property. Used primarily for properties that are rented, Dilapidation Surveys document any damages or wear and tear that may require repairing or replacing.
Who Needs a Dilapidation Survey?
A Dilapidation Survey is beneficial to both a landlord, and their tenant. For the landlord, the survey will clearly identify and document any minor or major damages to your property. For this reason, it’s important to complete this survey at the end of each tenancy before a new one commences.
For the tenant, this survey will protect you against claims of damages that you have not caused. This provides reassurance that no surprise charges will occur at the end of your lease agreement.
Are Surveys Required by Law?
No, Dilapidation Surveys are not required by law. However, they are useful and valuable for solving and avoiding any disputes regarding damages and costs between a landlord and tenant. They can also be used as evidence in court to settle any landlord/tenant disputes. For this reason, they are extremely important to consider at the end of each lease agreement.
How Much Does a Survey Cost?
The average cost for a Dilapidation Survey or Schedule costs between £750 to £1000.
For Dilapidation Schedules, it is usually a part of the rent agreement that the tenant covers the cost of these reports if they are required. This is why it’s important to consult your lease agreement and landlord for more information.
How Long Do Surveys Take?
At Crest Surveyors, Dilapidation Reports usually take between 2-4 hours to complete, with the final report being with you within 7 to 10 working days.