Blog
The Power of an Interim Schedule of Dilapidations: How Tayross Saves Tenants Thousands
Tuesday 3rd June 2025
At Tayross Chartered Building Surveyors, we recently undertook a Schedule of Dilapidations response on behalf of a commercial tenant occupying a large, historic property in a high-profile London borough. While we cannot refer to the specific address due to ongoing negotiations, the case highlights just how critical it is to seek expert advice early in the lease-end process—particularly when the building is listed and located in a conservation area.
The Issue: A Demanding Schedule with High-Value Claims
The landlord’s appointed surveyor had issued a robust schedule, which included the complete replacement of a large asphalt-covered roof. Such a demand, if accepted at face value, could lead to significant costs running into tens (if not hundreds) of thousands of pounds. In addition, the schedule listed several other items requiring repair or reinstatement—some of which may not have been enforceable under the lease, or were excessive given the building’s heritage status.
Why an Interim Schedule Matters
This is where an interim Schedule of Dilapidations becomes invaluable.
By conducting an interim inspection prior to the end of the lease, we can:
• Assess the validity of the landlord’s claims
• Determine whether works are truly necessary, or if more pragmatic, cost-effective alternatives are available
• Consider statutory limitations on repairs to listed buildings and conservation-area constraints
• Tender the required works competitively, ensuring best value
This approach enables tenants to take control of the process rather than being handed a final bill at lease end, often based on inflated estimates or non-tendered works.
Enhanced Inspections with Drone Technology
At Tayross, we also use drone technology to conduct detailed inspections of roof areas and difficult-to-access elevations. This allows us to capture high-resolution imagery and assess conditions with far greater accuracy than would otherwise be possible from ground level or limited access points. In the context of dilapidations, this can be crucial when challenging claims such as wholesale roof replacements—by providing clear, documented evidence of the actual condition.
Drone surveys are particularly valuable on large or sensitive buildings, where traditional access (e.g. scaffolding) may not be practical or permitted. Our investment in this technology reflects our commitment to providing thorough, defensible assessments that support our clients’ interests during negotiation.
Practical Solutions, Not Just Professional Reports
At Tayross, we go beyond simply challenging the scope of works. We use our extensive experience in historic and commercial buildings to propose practical repair solutions that meet lease obligations without unnecessary over-specification. In this particular case, we’re working closely with heritage consultants and contractors to assess whether full roof replacement is truly justified, or if targeted patch repairs would be more appropriate.
Moreover, our ability to project manage and tender the works ensures that any remedial actions are completed cost-effectively, with full transparency on pricing. This can lead to savings of many thousands of pounds, and provide greater leverage when negotiating a final settlement with the landlord.
The Bottom Line: Early Action = Better Outcomes
We always recommend that commercial tenants undertake an interim schedule at least 6–12 months before lease expiry. It provides the tenant with options, time, and control—rather than being forced into a reactive position when the final schedule arrives.
If you’re approaching the end of a lease, especially in a listed or conservation area property, speak to Tayross Chartered Building Surveyors. Our proactive, informed, and strategic approach to dilapidations—now enhanced by cutting-edge drone surveying—could save you a fortune—and a lot of unnecessary stress.
