Before starting any development, construction, alterations, or demolition, it is common practice to have a land surveyor conduct a thorough inspection of the structure in question.
At Land Sterling, we provide a wide range of surveying services, including dilapidation and condition surveys, deformation surveys, and subsidence surveys, led by our surveyors in Dubai.
What is Dilapidation?
Any deterioration, decay, or alteration to a building’s condition that results from neglect, intentional alteration, or simple ageing are known as dilapidation.
It is important to do a dilapidation survey on any rented commercial property, whether an office, warehouse, retail, leisure, or industrial space. Our professional building surveyors at Land Sterling have extensive experience with dilapidations.
We can assist landlords and tenants with all process aspects, from initial surveys to resolving any resulting disputes or claims.
What is a Dilapidation Survey?
A dilapidation survey is a detailed investigation by building surveyors that thoroughly documents the condition of a building, noting even minor issues.
It shows how much work needs to be done to bring the building back to its original state and checks to see if the landlord’s maintenance contracts have been done right according to any tenancy agreements.
The survey process should be undertaken well before tenants move out of a commercial property to ensure that the building can be restored in a timely manner.
A dilapidation survey is also used to deal with disputes and claims between a landlord and tenant. Should work yet to be completed before the end of a lease, a financial damage claim may need to be issued.
A dilapidation report covers the following:
- Full building condition report
- Comprehensive property deterioration analysis
- Risk Assessment
- Budget Costs for Remedies
- Evidence of Condition
- Prioritisation of Repairs
Why Do I Need A Dilapidation Survey?
Hiring a professional from Land Sterling to conduct a dilapidation survey is highly recommended to avoid frivolous claims and costly litigation. The following are the main reasons why a dilapidation survey can benefit you:
For precautionary measures
A dilapidation survey is an important piece of evidence in a dispute since it details the present state of a property, including any structural deterioration like cracks, wear and tear, water damage to flooring, ceilings, walls, and much more.
A dilapidation survey is objective and will not favour either the tenant or the landlord in any way. Its purpose is to give the data and information needed to establish fault. If there is a disagreement over the survey results, you can always look back to the recorded, very comprehensive photographs, videos, and written proof you gathered at the time.
Understand the condition of structures before construction
Doing a dilapidation survey will give you an accurate and thorough assessment of the property’s current condition. It will give you all the facts and information you need to plan confidently for the building’s needs.
Dilapidation surveys help ensure building sites are returned to their pre-damage conditions by evaluating neighbouring structures, reducing the likelihood of vibrations, water overflow, and flying debris, and identifying any other damage.
Helpful in rebutting false accusations, legal actions, and obligations.
A dilapidation survey on an existing property can safeguard professional contractors and developers from liability in the event of damage claims.
It is not uncommon for contractors and developers to be held liable for damages to a third party’s or a neighbour’s property, even when they had nothing to do with the incident. The results of a dilapidation survey can be used as proof in the event of damages, strengthening your position and saving you money on potential legal fees.
What does a dilapidation survey include?
A thorough review of the condition of every component and system of a building.
- Radiators and Heating Systems
- Fire Escapes and Fire Safety Routes
- Hazardous Areas
- Electrical and Power Systems
- windows and doors
- Staircases and Lift Systems
- IT and Communications
- Air Conditioning and Fans
- Grilles and Diffusers
- Lighting and Fittings
- Walls, Floors and Ceilings
Who needs a dilapidation survey?
Tenants and landlords may be required to instruct land surveyors to assess a building’s condition. For a tenant, this may mean following a schedule of dilapidations or may be part of a legal requirement or as stated within a contractual agreement.
Benefits of a Dilapidation Survey
- Assures building proprietors and occupants that the structure is in good shape
- Helps save money by preventing individuals from overpaying for repairs that are not the result of their own actions
- Helps eliminate disagreements over who is liable for the maintenance to a structure
- Ensures that a building is safe for its occupants
What is the process for a Dilapidation Survey?
To initiate the process of dilapidation claims, it is recommended that a third-party building surveyor conducts a dilapidation survey, even though it is not mandatory. This ensures that there is no bias towards the landlords or leaseholders during the investigation. It guarantees that the surveyor keeps findings the same since they have no financial incentive to do so.
After the building surveyor has conducted the dilapidation survey and created a schedule of dilapidations, any contested violations are recorded. These may include minor changes such as repainting the walls, or major renovations, such as removing a wall, as stated in the building condition report prepared by the surveyor.
The breach could be caused by any damage that violates the original lease agreement that the tenant signed. However, it could also be something less severe such as additional partition walls or other modifications that may enhance the room’s appearance.
If the place was initially designated as an open space and has not been restored to that condition, these alterations may still result in a dilapidation schedule. Some landlords may choose to keep tenant-made changes, but clarifying this before any repair work begins is crucial.
Along with the schedule of dilapidations, the tenant is given another document which specifies the financial losses incurred by the landlord due to the repairs outlined in the dilapidation schedule. This may include labour and material costs and any legal fees incurred.
Enhance Property Value through Dilapidation Surveys
Dealing with dilapidations can be a complex and lengthy process that property owners and managers often find challenging. However, it is a critical aspect of property management and building surveying that should not be overlooked.
At Land Sterling, our team of experts will conduct thorough inspections and assessments of your property to identify any breaches of lease agreements or damages. Our in-depth reports allow you to easily assess the necessary repairs and maintenance to maximise your property’s value. Our dilapidation surveys are designed to protect your interests and minimise disputes, streamlining the process.
So, if you’d like to learn more about our building surveying services, request a callback today.
