Schedules of Condition in Leeds
RICS CHARTERED BUILDING SURVEYORS
An independent, dated and photographed record of a building's condition, prepared by a chartered building surveyor. We are a family-run practice in Horsforth, Leeds, working across Yorkshire and further afield.
THE RECORD
What is a schedule of condition?
A schedule of condition provides a comprehensive record of the condition of a building at a point in time. It combines written description with photographs, and is prepared by a chartered building surveyor, so it stands as accurate and independent evidence of what was there on the day.
It is the best protection against a later dispute. If damage or significant change is alleged afterwards, the schedule shows the condition before it, including existing defects and wear.
WHEN IT MATTERS
When you need a schedule of condition
A schedule is prepared before the event it protects against, so the record exists when you need it.
Before a lease starts
So a tenant isn't held liable for defects that were already there. A detailed schedule with photographs and descriptive text is reliable evidence of condition when repairing liability is assessed at lease end.
Before neighbouring building work
To record the condition of your property before work next door begins, giving reliable evidence if damage or significant change occurs.
Before a construction project
To record adjoining buildings and the site.
WHO WE HELP
Who a schedule of condition is for
Tenants
Taking on a lease? A schedule helps show the condition the property was in when you took it on, so you are not asked to put right defects that were already there.
Landlords
A record at the start of a letting gives you a clear, independent reference point if the condition of the property is questioned at lease end.
Property owners
If building work is planned next door or nearby, a schedule records your own property first.
WRITTEN AND PHOTOGRAPHIC RECORD
What a schedule of condition includes
The inspection and report typically include the following, with annotated photographs to show defects or disrepair.
✓ Internal and external inspection with comprehensive photographs
✓ Photographs of specific defects
✓ Photographs of building services
✓ Accessible sub-floor and roof voids
✓ Grounds and outbuildings
✓ A drone survey of roof coverings
✓ A report with annotated photographs highlighting defects or disrepair
AT LEASE END
How a schedule of condition links to dilapidations
At the end of a lease, a landlord may claim dilapidations: the cost of putting right a tenant's failure to meet its repairing obligations. A schedule of condition prepared at the start gives an independent record of the condition at the outset, so the question at lease end is what has changed, not what was always there.
We also prepare dilapidations schedules and costings, and advise landlords and tenants on negotiation at lease end.
Related commercial services: Rebuild cost assessments | Drone roof surveys | All commercial services
QUESTIONS
Questions about schedules of condition
Is a schedule of condition the same as a building survey?
No. A schedule of condition records what a building looks like on a given date, in writing and in photographs. It is not a pre-purchase survey and does not advise on repairs or value.
Can a schedule of condition be prepared after a lease has started?
A schedule is most useful when it is prepared before the tenant takes occupation. If the lease has already begun, tell us when you enquire and we will discuss what can be recorded.
Is a schedule of condition only for commercial property?
No. The same record can be made for any building where its condition on a particular date may matter later. Tell us about your property when you enquire.
How is the report presented?
The report is provided as an A4 PDF document with a brief introduction and summary explaining the scope and the condition of the property. Annotated photographs are scaled so that the detail is clear.
REQUEST A SCHEDULE OF CONDITION
Tell us what you need
Send an enquiry and we'll call you to discuss the property, or we can email the fee quote if you prefer.
CALL
0113 293 0600
admin@knightsurveys.co.uk
VISIT
Network House, Lister Hill, Horsforth, Leeds LS18 5AZ
