Schedules of condition
A schedule of condition is a detailed, dated record of the condition of a property, or part of one, before building work starts next door. If damage is alleged later, it settles the question quickly and fairly. Schedules start from £350.
What's included
- An inspection of the parts of the adjoining property that could be affected by the work, typically the party wall on both sides, adjoining rooms, ceilings, floors and external elevations
- Written descriptions of existing cracks, defects and finishes
- Photographs that give a clear and unambiguous visual record
- A copy for both owners, and for annexing to the party wall award where there is one
Why it matters
Without a record of how things looked before, it's one person's word against another's. A schedule of condition gives everyone a baseline to compare against if damage is alleged during or after construction. The building owner is protected from claims for pre-existing defects, and the adjoining owner has evidence if new damage does occur.
In party wall disputes, a schedule of condition is usually referenced in the award and used to decide who is responsible for any damage that occurs during the work.
Neighbour has consented? You may not need an award, but we still strongly recommend a schedule of condition. Without one, an adjoining owner who later finds damage, or a building owner facing a claim, has no agreed starting point.
Schedule of condition questions
When should a schedule of condition be done?
As close as possible to the start of work, after the notices have been served and before any demolition or excavation begins.
Do I need to be at home for the inspection?
The adjoining owner, or someone they nominate, needs to give access to the relevant rooms. The inspection itself is usually quick and unobtrusive.
Can you do a schedule of condition without a party wall award?
Yes. We can prepare a standalone schedule of condition where a neighbour has consented, or for any building project where a record of a neighbouring property is sensible.
Not sure if the Act applies to your project?
Tell us what you're planning. We'll tell you, free of charge, whether you need to serve notice and what happens next.