Before construction, refurbishment or fit-out works begin, a Schedule of Condition can be one of the most valuable risk management tools on a project.

 

By recording the condition of neighbouring buildings, roads, footpaths, street furniture or leased premises before works commence, it creates a clear, dated benchmark supported by descriptions and photographic evidence.

 

This is particularly important where works may affect adjoining property, party walls or commercial lease obligations. Government guidance on the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 highlights that surveyor involvement is often part of resolving adjoining owner matters, while RICS guidance reinforces the importance of clear evidence in dilapidations and property condition disputes.

 

For developers, landlords, tenants and contractors, the benefit is simple: fewer assumptions, stronger evidence and a clearer route to resolving claims.

 

BAQUS provides professional Schedule of Condition surveys that help protect projects before risk becomes dispute.