A Schedule of Condition is a crucial report conducted by a qualified RICS surveyor to provide an objective record of a property's state at a specific point in time. This detailed assessment is essential for landlords, tenants, and property owners, helping to prevent disputes over damage or deterioration.
During the inspection, the surveyor meticulously examines and documents various aspects of the property, including:
- Property Location – Establishing precise site details.
- Construction Materials – Identifying key materials used in the building’s structure.
- Inspection Details – Recording the date, time, and weather conditions at the time of assessment.
- Purpose of the Survey – Defining why the Schedule of Condition is being conducted.
- Architectural Drawings & Media – Supplementing the report with photographs, videos, and drawings where applicable.
- Detailed Condition Assessment – A thorough description of both internal and external elements, noting defects such as cracks, dampness, staining, decay, discoloration, and structural weaknesses.
- Test Documentation – Recording any tests performed to assess the building’s condition.
By capturing high-quality photographs, videos, and written descriptions, a RICS surveyor can provide a comprehensive, legally defensible record of the property’s condition. This documentation is invaluable in lease agreements, party wall matters, and construction projects—ensuring that stakeholders are protected from potential disputes. Schedule of Condition reports are structured to present text alongside each corresponding image, ensuring unambiguous comprehension for anyone perusing the report.
So, in summary, a schedule of condition report vividly portrays defects and instances of disrepair both externally and internally, encompassing the structure, fabric, and services of the property as of the inspection date. The current state and identified defects are visually depicted through photographs, complemented by explanatory text providing insights into the severity of the issues. Additionally, the reports encompass a description of the property's extent, its construction, land details, and location. Comprehensive definitions of employed terminology are also supplied.
When is a schedule of condition required?
A Schedule of Condition survey is a useful tool which can be used in a few different scenarios. Its most common application is before occupation of a leased property. The survey acts as a benchmark to confirm the condition of the property prior to its occupation, this then helps determine dilapidation liabilities at lease end. Other applications include in the party wall award process. Under the Party Wall Act, where an adjoining owner has dissented to notifiable works, as part of the process a Schedule of Condition will be completed on the adjoining owner’s property before any construction works commence next door.
Alternatively, a Schedule of Condition is a useful tool, where you have a scheme of refurbishment or construction works about to commence on a neighbouring property and you’re concerned about the works having an adverse impact on your property. A Schedule of Condition completed by a RICS surveyor may act as a saving grace, to clearly illustrate any damage caused.
Why is a Schedule of Condition particularly important for leased commercial properties?
Signing a commercial lease is a significant commitment and hidden within its clauses may be a potential financial responsibility – the obligation to repair the building. This could include various repairs such as damaged brickwork or cladding sheets, roof leaks or faulty roller shutter doors. The list goes on! To safeguard your interests, it's crucial to ensure that the property's condition is meticulously documented. Enter the Schedule of Condition – a valuable tool that can save you both money and headaches. Think of a Schedule of Condition as an insurance policy for tenants. It not only shields you from being held responsible for pre-existing repairs but also serves as evidence that you've restored the property to its original state upon departure. It's a proactive measure that can make a significant difference in minimising financial burdens and disputes. At the end of the lease, you can refer to the document to showcase the state of the property and dispute any excessive dilapidation or reinstatement demands from the landlord.
If you're unsure about obtaining a Schedule of Condition or need guidance on its implications within a business lease, our team is here to help. Our RICS-qualified surveyors can offer expert advice on commissioning a Schedule of Condition before you sign the lease and its impact at the conclusion of your tenancy. Don't leave the condition of your property to chance – let us guide you through the process!
Who are we?
At the Survey Network, we’re all about putting unparalleled surveying expertise in your pocket. Whether it’s completing a Schedule of Condition on a leased warehouse, office, or shop unit, or if your concerned about upcoming works to a neighbour’s property affecting your property, our network of self-employed surveyors can help you get the protection you require.
The surveyors we work with are passionate about precision and clarity, ensuring that you’re equipped with the necessary protection. The individuals we work with have vast experience completing Schedule of Conditions in multiple different types of property including factories, warehouses, offices, listed buildings, department stores, shops, luxury dwellings, residential blocks of flats and residential dwellings. If you require a Schedule of Condition or have queries regarding your premises and the application or necessity of a Schedule of Condition, please book here!
