A schedule of dilapidations covers claims by a landlord for disrepair and missed maintenance at the end of a commercial lease, set out in a formal schedule often supported by a surveyor’s report. A solicitor practising in this area reviews the lease, the landlord’s claim, and any defence; they instruct or liaise with surveyors, prepare responses, and negotiate settlements or pursue/defend court or arbitration proceedings. The work hinges on lease covenants, the state of premises, and timelines for repairing or compensating for disrepair.
Why this work is usually handled by a solicitor
The consequences of disputed disrepair can lead to significant financial liability for the tenant or landlord, and professional accountability protects clients through professional indemnity insurance, regulatory oversight, and rights to contest or enforce claims in court or via adjudication. A solicitor’s role includes ensuring the schedule accurately reflects covenants, interpreting repair costs, and negotiating appropriate settlements that reflect genuine condition and lease terms.
