Dilapidations
In almost all tenancies there will be obligations concerning the form and condition of the premises. A failure to comply with such obligations will give rise to a claim for what is commonly known as dilapidations. For any sizeable dilapidations claim both the landlord and the tenant will appoint professional representatives, usually building surveyors, because of the degree of construction knowledge required. For the dilapidations process to be successful the appointed surveyor must also have a reasonable understanding of the often complex legal principles in this area of law. It is not uncommon for solicitors to be involved in dilapidations claims, perhaps in the formal service of the claim itself, or in the interpretation of the lease covenants.