Commercial Dilapidations
Expert representation for tenants and landlords in commercial lease dilapidations. Whether minimising tenant liabilities or securing landlord settlements, we protect your commercial interests through technical rigour and strategic negotiation.
Who We Help
Advice is crucial before signing a new lease to limit future liabilities, during occupation if interim repair notices are served, or when negotiating a break clause or lease surrender where property condition affects the settlement.
When You Need Dilapidations Advice
You typically need dilapidations advice when approaching the end of a commercial lease (usually 6–12 months prior to expiry), or when a landlord serves a schedule of dilapidations demanding repairs or financial compensation.
Lease Expiry
Approaching lease end or break clauseNotice Served
Received a Schedule of DilapidationsExit Planning
Portfolio rationalisation or relocationNegotiation
Settlement discussions underwayCommercial Outcomes
100Average time to settlement from initial instruction
65Average reduction in initial landlord claim value through technical challenge and negotiation
450Saved for a national retailer across a 12-property portfolio exit
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What We Deliver
You will receive comprehensive dilapidations and lease advisory services spanning the entire property lifecycle, from pre-commitment strategy through occupation and exit planning.
- Advice on diminution valuations and supersession
- Dilapidations claim assessments and settlement negotiations
- Strategic advice before lease commitment, during occupation, and exit planning
- Interim and terminal schedules of dilapidations
- Tenant responses to landlord schedules (Scott Schedules)
- Expert witness services for disputes
Our Methodology
1. Legal & Commercial Analysis
Review of lease obligations, relevant case law (including Section 18 diminution where applicable), and assessment of the property's intended use to establish the strength and value of the claim.
2. Technical Assessment
Detailed inspection against lease covenants, identification of breaches and remedial requirements, and preparation of cost assessments aligned with market rates.
3. Strategic Negotiation
Development of evidence-based positions, preparation of robust technical and commercial arguments, evaluation of settlement and remedial options, and negotiation to achieve an efficient and commercially favourable outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ideally 12-18 months before lease expiry or break, but we regularly assist with urgent instructions where notices have already been served. Early instruction allows for strategic planning and cost mitigation.
A formal document prepared by the landlord (or their surveyor) detailing breaches of lease covenants relating to repair, decoration, and reinstatement. It forms the basis for financial negotiations.
Absolutely. The Dilapidations Protocol encourages negotiation before litigation. Most claims settle for 30-60% of the initial claim value through robust technical and commercial negotiation.
Under Section 18 of the Landlord & Tenant Act 1927, damages cannot exceed the reduction in the property's value. If the landlord intends to redevelop or re-let "as is", the claim may be significantly reduced.