Commercial Landlord Dilapidations Claims
We advise commercial landlords on pursuing dilapidations claims against tenants for breaches of repair, reinstatement, and lease-end obligations. Whether dealing with disputed schedules of dilapidations or recovery of losses following lease expiry, we help you protect the value and condition of your property effectively.
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What we can do for you with dilapidations claims
We act for commercial landlords bringing dilapidations claims against tenants, helping you recover losses, enforce lease obligations, and protect the value of your property.
- Reviewing lease obligations and tenant repair duties
- Preparing and responding to schedules of dilapidations
- Assessing repair, reinstatement, and decoration claims
- Negotiating settlement or pursuing recovery where required
Dilapidations claims are about recovering the cost of putting premises back into the condition required by the lease. Tenants may dispute the scope of works, valuation, or whether the claim is properly recoverable.
We focus on establishing the strongest claim, supporting it with evidence, and driving the matter towards recovery while managing risk and proportionality.
View our Commercial Landlord services.
How we approach dilapidations claims
Dilapidations claims are about enforcing lease obligations properly while protecting the value and condition of the property. The priority is to establish the tenant’s responsibilities, assess the condition of the premises, and recover losses efficiently and proportionately.
Understanding the lease position
We review the lease obligations, the condition of the premises, and the tenant’s repair responsibilities to establish the strength of the claim.
Assessing the losses and evidence
We assess schedules of dilapidations, surveyor evidence, repair costs, and whether the losses being claimed are properly recoverable.
Taking the right next step
We pursue recovery strategically, negotiate where appropriate, and take formal action where necessary to protect your position and minimise loss.
Key issues in commercial landlord dilapidations claims
Dilapidations claims are driven by lease obligations, property condition, and financial recovery. The issue is not simply identifying disrepair, but establishing the true scope of the tenant’s liability and protecting the value of the asset.
Scope of the tenant’s obligations
Repair clauses, reinstatement provisions, and schedules of condition all affect the extent of the tenant’s liability at the end of the lease.
Evidence of disrepair
Surveys, photographs, inspection reports, and lease documentation are central to establishing the condition of the premises and supporting the claim.
Valuation and financial loss
Claims need to reflect actual loss and recoverable cost. Overstated schedules or unsupported figures can weaken recovery position.
Commercial recovery strategy
Timing, negotiation, settlement pressure, and future letting plans all influence how dilapidations claims are pursued and resolved.
Whatever your situation, our solicitors can provide clear, confidential guidance tailored to you.
Whatever your situation, our solicitors can provide clear, confidential guidance tailored to you.
Commercial Landlord Dilapidations Claims FAQs
Common questions from commercial landlords dealing with dilapidations claims, lease-end breaches, and property condition disputes.
What is a dilapidations claim?
A dilapidations claim is a claim against a tenant for failing to comply with repair, reinstatement, or decoration obligations under the lease, usually at or near lease expiry.
What can I include in a dilapidations claim?
Claims may include repair works, reinstatement costs, decoration failures, professional fees, and losses caused by breaches of lease obligations where recoverable.
Can tenants challenge dilapidations claims?
Yes. Tenants commonly dispute scope, valuation, causation, and whether the claimed works go beyond the lease obligations or exceed the landlord’s actual loss.
What is Section 18 in dilapidations claims?
Section 18 can limit recovery to the actual reduction in the property’s value caused by the disrepair. This can affect the level of damages recoverable.
What happens if I delay bringing a dilapidations claim?
Delay can weaken recovery prospects, affect evidence, and complicate negotiations. Early action helps preserve leverage and strengthen the claim position.
Clear advice and practical steps on dilapidations claims
If a tenant has failed to comply with repair obligations at lease end, early advice helps protect your recovery position. We review the lease, assess the condition of the premises, and explain the available remedies clearly so dilapidations claims can be pursued effectively.
Initial review
A solicitor reviews the lease, schedules of dilapidations, and the condition of the premises.
Clear position
We explain what the tenant may be liable for, what losses may be recoverable, and where disputes may arise.
Practical next steps
We set out the most effective route forward, whether through negotiation, formal claim, or enforcement action.
Ongoing support
If you instruct us, a solicitor manages the claim directly and keeps control of the recovery process throughout.
There is no obligation. Early advice helps strengthen your recovery position and avoid unnecessary dispute.
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