How is this different from traditional dilapidations?
We focus on the sustainability layer — green lease compliance, MEES exposure, embodied carbon in reinstatement, and ESG-aligned exit planning — rather than purely contractual repair claims.
When should we engage you?
Ideally at lease drafting or 12–24 months before a break/expiry, so green lease obligations and reinstatement decisions can be planned strategically rather than reactively.
Can you act for both landlords and tenants?
Yes — though never on the same instruction. We work both sides of the market across the UK.
What's a 'green lease' and how does it affect dilapidations?
A green lease contains clauses on energy data sharing, MEES upgrades, sustainable alterations and reinstatement. These can dramatically change the scope and cost of dilapidations at lease end.
How does MEES interact with dilapidations?
If a building falls below the minimum EPC rating, the landlord can't re-let. Reinstatement decisions can push the EPC down further — so MEES exposure must be modelled before any strip-out is agreed.
What is circular reinstatement?
Reusing, donating or recycling fit-out elements rather than defaulting to full strip-out and landfill. It cuts embodied carbon, waste and often cost — and increasingly aligns with both parties' ESG targets.
Can you produce a Scott Schedule with sustainability commentary?
Yes — we can supplement the traditional Scott Schedule with sustainability commentary, MEES impact and embodied carbon implications for negotiation.
Do you work alongside our existing dilapidations surveyor?
Yes — we frequently sit alongside a traditional dilapidations team as the sustainability and MEES specialist, complementing rather than replacing existing advisors.
What evidence do you produce for ESG / CSRD reporting?
Waste diversion data, embodied and operational carbon savings, reuse percentages and MEES-uplift outcomes are documented so they flow directly into corporate sustainability reporting.
Can you advise on landlord-side reinstatement strategy?
Yes — we advise landlords on whether to accept reinstatement, take a cash settlement or negotiate a MEES-uplift package that improves the building for re-letting.
What is a schedule of dilapidations?
A document prepared for the landlord listing breaches of the tenant's repair, decoration, reinstatement and statutory obligations under the lease, with the remedial works and usually a costing. It can be interim (during the lease) or terminal (at or near lease end).
What does Section 18(1) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1927 do?
It caps damages for disrepair at the reduction in the value of the landlord's reversion. If the landlord intends to redevelop or refurbish in a way that makes the repairs pointless, the claim can be significantly reduced.
What is the Dilapidations Protocol?
The Pre-Action Protocol for Claims for Damages in relation to the Physical State of Commercial Property at Termination of a Tenancy. It sets expectations for the schedule, quantified demand, the tenant's response and meeting to narrow issues before any court claim.
Should a tenant carry out the works or agree a cash settlement?
It depends on time, cost, business disruption and the landlord's plans. Doing works can be cheaper if well managed; a settlement gives certainty and avoids overrunning the lease. We model both options, including the carbon and EPC impact.
Can a break clause be lost because of dilapidations?
Yes, if the break is conditional on material or full compliance with covenants or vacant possession. Early inspection and a clear works plan reduce the risk of losing a break.
