The Schedule Of Dilapidations

When an landlord and a tenant enter into an agreement to lease property they typically have a clause for addressing damage to the property. While normal wear and tear on property is to be expected and is often protected by local ordinances, significant damage to the rental property is usually defined as relating to a problem associated with maintenance of said property and is generally the responsibility of the tenant. Here are some of the ways in which this is treated in a document that is known as a schedule of Dilapidations.

What is a Schedule of Dilapidations and why is it needed?

A schedule of Dilapidations clause in a lease contract will define the terms of what will happen when a leased property is damaged. The lease contract will determine which damages will be borne by a landlord and which by the tenant. It will also define the protocol for addressing the property damage. Typically this involves a schedule of Dilapidations which is a schedule presented by the landlord to the tenant with the property damage and a timeframe in which the property will need to be repaired in order for the tenant to not be hit with fines and charges.

Addressing an Schedule of Dilapidations

If you receive a schedule of dilapidations then you have to address it professionally. Read the contents of it and learn about the damage noted. Read the language of the lease and make sure that you either contest the items in the schedule immediately or that you ask for clarity from the landlord.