Glossary · Last reviewed June 2026
What is Dilapidations?
Definition
Dilapidations are the repair, redecoration and reinstatement works a commercial tenant is contractually obliged to carry out at the end of a lease, returning the premises to the condition required by the lease — usually itemised by the landlord's surveyor in a schedule of dilapidations.
If the tenant does not complete the works, the landlord can claim the cost as damages. It is almost always cheaper for the tenant to commission the works directly than to settle the landlord's claim, which typically includes professional fees and loss of rent.
LWR Group executes schedules of dilapidations for commercial tenants across Lincoln and the East Midlands — decoration, flooring, repairs and reinstatement under one contractor with full photographic evidence of completion.
Compliance Without the Homework
LWR Landlord Group Membership tracks every certificate and deadline for you. From £200/month.