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Rubo

Feature

Dilapidations Review

Parse a schedule of dilapidations in seconds. Rubo categorises each item, flags exaggerated costings, applies the s.18(1) diminution cap, and identifies supersession defences.

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What Rubo Analyses

Repair items — categorised by obligation scope (structural, internal, M&E)
Redecoration items — flagged against lease Schedule of Condition
Reinstatement items — tenant alterations requiring removal
Costing reasonableness — flagged against market benchmarks
s.18(1) diminution cap — applied where landlord intent is known
Supersession defence — flagged where refurbishment planned
Schedule of Condition carve-outs — items excluded by photographic record
Interim vs terminal schedule — different statutory treatment identified

Dilapidations FAQ

What are dilapidations in a UK commercial lease?

Dilapidations are breaches of a tenant's repairing obligations under a commercial lease. At lease end (or during the term via an interim schedule), the landlord serves a schedule listing items the tenant must repair, reinstate, or pay damages for.

What is the s.18(1) cap?

Section 18(1) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1927 limits dilapidations damages to the diminution in the value of the landlord's reversion. If the landlord intends to demolish or substantially reconstruct, the tenant may owe nothing regardless of the schedule amount.

What is a supersession defence?

If a landlord intends to carry out works that would supersede the tenant's repair obligation (e.g. a full refurbishment), the tenant can argue the repair items are academic. Rubo flags items where supersession may apply based on the landlord's stated intentions.

How does Rubo help with dilapidations?

Rubo parses the schedule of dilapidations, categorises each item (repair, redecoration, reinstatement), flags likely-exaggerated costings, applies the s.18(1) cap logic, and highlights where supersession or Schedule of Condition defences may reduce liability.

Can Rubo replace a building surveyor?

No. Rubo provides an AI-assisted first-pass analysis to help brokers triage dilapidations claims and brief their surveyor more effectively. Physical inspection and RICS-compliant valuation still require a qualified surveyor.

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Lease AbstractionBreak Clause ValidatorRent Review