Schedule of Condition in London by Wimbledon Surveyors
The Schedule of Condition is an addendum to the Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement. It will effectively record the condition of a property before the works commence through the use of a written record that is often accompanied by supporting photographs and/or sketches.
A Schedule of Condition is also often requested by a homeowner or landlord before a Party Wall Award or where liability for premises is about to change hands e.g. letting or leasing the building.
What is a Schedule of Condition?
A detailed Schedule of Condition is a ‘snapshot’ of a particular area, including any existing damage or notable features. Schedules of Condition are typically used as a benchmark when repairs or alterations need to be carried out, be it at a later date, by either a contractor, vacating tenant or any other third party. The Schedule can then be checked afterwards to differentiate between new and pre-existing damage.
What does the Schedule of Condition check?
The extent of a Schedule of Condition varies depending on what it is there for, but generally will only include what can be affected by the change in circumstances, so will only cover the area and items involved in the works. For example, if a tenant is to vacate a building a Schedule of Condition will cover more of the building than if the document is compiled for a Party Wall alteration, but the level of detail will be very similar. The Schedule of Condition is a record of what the surveyor can see on the day.
How will an alteration impact your building?
A ground floor extension, a loft conversion and a basement conversion all have different effects on a building. There is plenty for you to think about in the discussions with your architect or designer to make sure you get the result you want. Our panel of surveyors have carried out more schedules of condition for many clients. You must talk to them before they complete the survey for your Schedule of Condition, especially if you are unsure what the alteration will entail.
How is the Schedule of Condition presented?
The body of the plan will consist of descriptive text, supported by pictures, diagrams or sketches etc. This is so that the information is fully understood, as pictures only can not always convey exactly where and how big something is. Your plan will be laid out clearly, with references in the text to any pictures etc. If your surveyor can not easily describe or photograph it, then they will write you a general note about the findings in the said area (this often happens with hairline cracks).
They have experience in preparing Schedules of Condition for both landlords and tenants. It will be a full report on the condition of a building or part of a building at a specific date and time. A tenant may wish to have a Schedule of Condition on a building or part of a building and have it attached to a Lease to show that the property was not in disrepair at the time the Lease commenced.
Surveyors can undertake Schedules of Conditions for homeowners and landlords throughout Wimbledon London. Should you require a Schedule of Condition and wish to obtain a free quote, please get in touch with them today.