Schedules
of Condition
Schedules of Condition (SoC) are often seen as being driven by a tenant; however, they can also be useful records for Landlords.
The SoC will usually comprise of a detailed narrative describing the construction and condition of the various building elements, with photographs evidencing the condition.
How they are drafted
It is a factual document, recording the condition of a building at the time of inspection and as such is an invaluable tool for both landlords and tenants when considering end of term dilapidations, as they clearly set out the condition of the building at lease commencement.
A well drafted schedule of condition will certainly assist both the landlord and tenant in determining the level of damages in any future dilapidations claim. For a landlord it will be clear if there has been deterioration to the property and for the tenant it will be clear if there was any pre-existing disrepair.
In essence this should remove unnecessary, over inflated claims by the landlord and conversely reduce the level of dispute from a tenant where the landlord has accurately prepared a schedule of dilapidations with correct reference to the SoC.
Benefits of SoC
Whilst a SoC is often seen as a benefit to a tenant, it can also benefit a landlord. Typically, where the premises are either new build or subject to a refurbishment the SoC will provide clear unambiguous evidence of the condition of the premises in its new or refurbished condition.
In any event, even where a tenant is requesting a SoC to be prepared, there can be benefit in the landlord taking control of this process via their own trusted advisor.
At Hagen we can tailor the content and style of the SoC to suit both landlord and tenant.
services@hagen.org.uk or phone Philip White on 07747800116.
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