Dilapidations claims

Dilapidations disputes often arise at the worst possible time, at the end of a lease when businesses are already managing relocation, renewal, or exit costs. For landlords, the condition of a property directly affects future income and value. For tenants, unexpected dilapidations claims can create significant, unplanned financial exposure.

Our property litigation solicitors advise commercial landlords and tenants on dilapidations claims, focusing on achieving practical, commercially sensible outcomes. Whether you are pursuing or defending a claim, our aim is to resolve matters efficiently and protect your position.

Advising landlords and tenants on dilapidations

Not every dilapidations claim needs to become a drawn-out dispute, but these matters are often legally and technically complex. The earlier you take advice, the greater the opportunity to manage risk and control cost.

We act for both landlords and tenants across the full lifecycle of dilapidations claims, from early negotiations through to formal proceedings where required. Our experience allows us to cut through technical arguments and focus on what really matters: the financial and commercial outcome.

Section 18 valuations and limiting exposure

At the end of a lease, Section 18 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1927 can limit the damages a landlord is entitled to recover for breach of repairing obligations.

A section eighteen valuation assesses whether, and to what extent, the value of the landlord’s interest has been reduced as a result of disrepair. In many cases, this can significantly reduce a tenant’s liability and shape settlement strategy.

Where appropriate, we work closely with specialist surveyors who provide section eighteen valuations and expert evidence, ensuring that dilapidations claims are approached with a clear understanding of their true commercial value.

Professional negligence linked to dilapidations

In some cases, businesses discover too late that a dilapidations claim could have been limited or avoided altogether with proper advice.

If a dilapidations matter has been settled without appropriate consideration of section eighteen or without proper professional input, there may be grounds to explore whether negligent advice was given by a surveyor or solicitor. Our litigation team can advise on whether a professional negligence claim is worth pursuing.

The dilapidations protocol

Dilapidations claims relating to the physical condition of commercial property at the end of a tenancy are governed by a specific pre-action protocol.

The protocol applies to commercial property in England and Wales and is designed to encourage early exchange of information and realistic settlement before court proceedings are considered.

Our solicitors guide clients through every stage of the protocol, ensuring that your position is protected and that the process is handled properly from the outset.

When court proceedings become necessary

Most dilapidations disputes are resolved through negotiation rather than litigation. However, some cases require firm legal action.

Where proceedings are unavoidable, our property litigation solicitors provide clear, strategic advice and representation, with a focus on proportionality, cost control, and outcome.

Speak to our property litigation solicitors

We advise commercial landlords and tenants on dilapidations disputes. Our property litigation solicitors in London, Bath, Brighton, Eastbourne, Hastings and Ulverston act for clients across England and Wales.

If you are dealing with a dilapidations claim and want clear, practical advice on the best way forward, our solicitors are ready to help.