Independent introduction service
Whether you've received a schedule of dilapidations or you need to serve one, the difference between a good outcome and an expensive one usually comes down to timing — and who you speak to first.
That number on the schedule is almost certainly negotiable. But how you respond — and how quickly — directly affects what you end up paying.
You're entitled to recover costs — but a poorly prepared claim gets challenged, delayed, or reduced. The earlier you instruct, the stronger your position.
Most people who find this site are already weeks or months into a dilapidations situation. The claim has arrived, the figures are large, and they're not sure who to trust or what to do first.
Here's what we see repeatedly: the single biggest factor in how much a dilapidations matter costs isn't the size of the claim — it's how long it takes to get the right professional involved.
The figure on a schedule of dilapidations is the landlord's surveyor's opening position. It is almost always negotiable — often significantly. But the longer you wait to respond properly, the harder it becomes. Positions harden. Deadlines pass. What could have been a negotiated settlement becomes a formal dispute. A competent tenant-side surveyor, instructed early, will typically pay for themselves many times over in what they save you.
A dilapidations claim that's poorly prepared, late, or inflated is easy for a tenant's surveyor to pick apart. The strongest claims are realistic, well-evidenced, and served promptly. Instructing a surveyor before or immediately after the tenant vacates — not months later — gives you the clearest picture and the strongest position.
Every week without proper advice is a week where positions drift further apart, evidence deteriorates, and options narrow. In dilapidations, early action doesn't just save money — it often changes the entire trajectory of the outcome.
These are typical ranges for UK commercial dilapidations matters. The actual cost depends on the size of the property, complexity of the lease, and how far apart the parties are.
In almost every case, early professional input costs less than dealing with the consequences of delay or poor positioning.
Takes 2 minutes. Responded to within one business day.
Use the form below to explain what's happening. Whether you're a tenant or a landlord, include as much context as you can.
We assess the type of matter and introduce you to an independent professional with specific dilapidations experience relevant to your situation.
The specialist reaches out to discuss your situation. You are responsible for deciding whether to instruct them, and for verifying their suitability for your matter. No obligation.
We are not a law firm or surveying practice. This is an independent introduction service — any engagement is between you and the professional introduced. Full details in our Terms of Use.
Most people dealing with a dilapidations claim don't know which type of professional they need first, or how to find one with specific dilapidations experience. Searching online returns dozens of general practice firms — but dilapidations is a specialist area where experience matters significantly. This service exists to close that gap quickly.
It takes two minutes. No obligation. We'll come back to you within one business day with a clear next step.