Handing back a leased commercial property is about more than clearing the contents — it is about meeting the specific obligations set out in your lease. Getting this wrong can lead to a dilapidations claim after you have already moved on. This checklist covers what to confirm before the handover date. It is general information, not legal advice.
Before you book the clearance
- Check your lease for repair, reinstatement and redecoration obligations.
- Compare the property's current condition against any schedule of condition.
- Confirm whether alterations need to be removed (reinstatement) or can stay.
- Photograph the property at handover as your own record.
What “dilapidations” actually means
Dilapidations describes alleged breaches of lease obligations relating to a property's condition, such as repair, redecoration or reinstatement. The exact obligations come from the lease and the facts of the tenancy. A landlord may prepare a schedule setting out claimed breaches, so obtain advice from a commercial property solicitor or surveyor where the position is unclear.
Checking your lease obligations
Before booking an end-of-lease clearance, it is worth confirming, ideally with a solicitor or commercial surveyor if the wording is unclear:
- Whether the lease requires reinstatement of any alterations you made
- What condition the property must be returned to
- Any specific redecoration or repair clauses
- Deadlines relative to the lease end date
The schedule of condition, if you have one
If a schedule of condition was attached to the lease at the start of the tenancy, it may affect how the repair obligation is interpreted. Its wording and relationship to the lease matter. Have it available when planning the clearance, and ask a commercial surveyor or solicitor how it applies before commissioning reinstatement work.
A handover checklist
Before the handover date:
Photographing the handover
Photographing each area on the day of handover gives you a dated record of the property's visible condition. Keep the images with the lease, schedule of condition, scope of work, invoices and handover correspondence. A solicitor or surveyor can advise what evidence is relevant if a claim is raised.
Frequently asked questions
Do I definitely need a strip-out at the end of a lease?
Not always — this depends entirely on your specific lease terms. See the related guide on commercial clearance scope and strip-out boundaries for how to check.
What if I don't have a schedule of condition?
The position depends on the lease and available evidence. Ask a commercial property solicitor or surveyor before assuming what standard applies.
Can a dilapidations claim be raised after I've already left?
A claim may be raised after the tenancy ends. Keep a clear handover record and obtain professional advice if one is received.
How far in advance should I start planning the clearance?
As early as possible once your lease end date is known, particularly if a strip-out or specialist work is required, since this takes longer to arrange than a simple contents clearance.
Key takeaways
- Check your lease's repair and reinstatement obligations before booking a clearance.
- A schedule of condition may affect the repair obligation, depending on the lease wording.
- Match the clearance scope to your actual lease obligations, not a guess.
- Photograph the property at handover as your own evidence.
See the related guide on commercial clearance scope and strip-out boundaries, or office clearance and strip-out and retail shop clearance. Request a quote once your obligations are confirmed.
Sources and official guidance
These primary sources support the legal, safety and waste guidance on this page. Local service rules can change, so check the linked authority before making arrangements.
- Dilapidations in England and Wales - RICS Official source, checked 29 August 2026