Dilapidations

Introduction

There are obligations in relation to 'dilapidations' when leaving a unit within a Workspace Group building or estate.

What is meant by dilapidations?

This is a legal term embracing all the repairs and maintenance to be carried out by a tenant, at their expense. These works can be carried out during, but more usually, at the end of occupation in order to comply with the tenant obligations detailed within a lease.

The lease

This is a signed legal contract conferring rights and duties on both signatories - the landlord and tenant.

Dilapidations Procedure

At the beginning of a lease, the tenant is usually required to pay a deposit in advance. The lease contains the obligations for both landlord and tenant with regard to maintenance and repair, and states the condition in which the unit should be returned at the end of the tenancy.

When Workspace Group is notified in writing of a tenant’s intention to leave, the unit will be inspected and the tenant advised, in writing, of the works that are required in order to comply with the terms of the lease before the unit is accepted back. The tenant is required to complete all necessary works by the time the lease comes to an end. Provided that all obligations have been completed on departure, the deposit will be returned within 30 days.

If all the necessary works are not completed, Workspace Group will undertake them on departure of the tenant and the cost will be recovered, together with any liability for additional rent and service charge whilst this work is being carried out. The costs will be recovered from a deposit paid on occupancy, if sufficient, and any remaining balance will be charged to the tenant.

What about changes to the unit?

All proposed alterations require prior written consent. If any alterations undertaken by tenants are considered to be of benefit to the unit, these may be allowed to remain e.g. partitioning. This will be confirmed in writing by Workspace Group.

What is included in dilapidations?

This will almost certainly include internal redecoration and may include works to electrical and heating systems, the removal of partitions and suspended ceilings, renewal of floor coverings, etc.

Dilapidations do not usually include works associated with matters that are beyond a tenants control e.g. subsidence, structural movement, or where there is an outstanding insurance claim.

How can the impact of dilapidations be reduced?

The most effective means of reducing the impact of dilapidations is to keep the unit in good repair and condition, including decorative repair, during occupation.

Adequate insurance cover ensures you can claim for accidental damage. We operate an award winning insurance scheme in partnership with Kerry London and Norwich Union, which provides competitive cover against accidental damage to fixtures and fittings e.g. carpet . For a free, no obligation quote, please telephone Workspace Plus Insurance on 0800 163 500.

Standards of repair

All repairs and maintenance works undertaken are required to be to an acceptable standard as specified within the lease. 

Further Information
If you need any further information, please contact us:
Telephone: 0207 247 7614
info@workspacegroup.co.uk