Refurbishment & Dilapidation Works

Refurbishment and Dilapidation Works

At Elevate FM, we specialise in commercial refurbishment and dilapidation works across the UK, offering tailored solutions that restore, modernise, and add value to commercial and residential properties. Our approach is detailed and client focused, aimed at fulfilling property value and functional utility through planned or reactive upgrades and repairs.

Whether you are a landlord preparing for a new tenant, a leaseholder facing end of lease obligations, or a business relocating to new premises, our team delivers a seamless, single contractor solution for all refurbishment and dilapidation needs.

Expert Refurbishment Services for Commercial and Residential Properties

Our team of professionals can handle everything from minor cosmetic updates, such as painting and decorating, to major renovations involving structural alterations, HVAC system upgrades, and the installation of energy efficient lighting.

Elevate FM works closely with clients to understand their specific needs in any project, to ensure that we exceed your expectations at every possible moment. Whether it's updating an office space to foster a more collaborative work environment, renovating a school's learning facilities, or upgrading your warehouse facilities for streamlined operations, we've got you covered.

What Does a Commercial Refurbishment Typically Include?

A commercial refurbishment can range from a simple cosmetic refresh to a full strip out and refit. Common works include new flooring, partition walls, suspended ceilings, redecoration, mechanical and electrical upgrades, and reconfiguration of layouts to suit incoming tenants or operational changes. The scope depends on the condition of the property and the requirements of the new occupier or landlord.

What Are Dilapidation Works?

Dilapidations refer to the breaches of lease covenants relating to the condition of a commercial property, typically assessed at the end of a tenancy. Under UK law, a landlord may serve a Schedule of Dilapidations on the outgoing tenant, detailing the repairs, reinstatement, and redecoration required to return the property to the condition specified in the lease. It is important to note that dilapidation claims are governed by Section 18(1) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1927, which places a statutory cap on damages. This means a landlord's claim is limited to the actual diminution in the value of the property, rather than simply the full cost of the repair works.

Our dilapidation services are designed to help both landlords and outgoing tenants navigate this process efficiently. We conduct thorough inspections to assess the extent of repairs needed and undertake all necessary works to satisfy both parties. This includes fixing structural damages, replacing worn out fixtures, and ensuring that all electrical, plumbing, and mechanical systems are in top working condition.

When Should You Address Dilapidations?

It is advisable to consider your dilapidation obligations well before the lease expiry date. Terminal schedules of dilapidations are typically served during the final three to six months of a lease, but early engagement with a facilities management provider like Elevate FM allows for planned works that can reduce costs and avoid disputes. Interim schedules can also be served during the lease term if a tenant is not maintaining the property to the required standard.

Our Refurbishment and Dilapidation Services Include

• Complete Refurbishments: Full scale renovations to modernise and enhance commercial and residential properties, including offices, retail spaces, and residential blocks.
• Dilapidation Works: Thorough end of lease dilapidation services to restore properties to their original condition, ensuring compliance with lease agreements and minimising tenant liabilities.
• Interior and Exterior Renovations: Upgrading and refreshing interiors and exteriors, including painting, decorating, and structural improvements.
• Structural Repairs: Addressing structural issues to ensure the safety and integrity of your property, from minor repairs to major structural overhauls.
• Mechanical and Electrical Upgrades: Modernising and improving mechanical and electrical systems to enhance efficiency, safety, and compliance with current regulations.
• Strip Out and Cat A/B Fit Outs: Preparing vacant units for new tenants through full strip outs and fit outs to Cat A (base build) or Cat B (tenant specific) specifications.
• Reinstatement Works: Returning a property to its original layout and condition as required by lease terms, including the removal of tenant alterations and additions.

Forget the hassle of coordinating multiple contractors for various aspects of your refurbishment, just instruct Elevate FM to take care of everything.

Why Choose a Single Contractor for Refurbishment and Dilapidation Works?

Managing refurbishment or dilapidation projects through a single facilities management provider offers significant advantages over appointing multiple contractors. With Elevate FM acting as your sole point of contact, you benefit from streamlined project management, consistent quality standards, and simplified communication. This approach reduces the risk of scheduling conflicts between trades, minimises downtime for your property, and provides a single accountability chain from start to completion.

Sectors We Serve

Elevate FM delivers refurbishment and dilapidation works across a wide range of sectors and property types, including:

• Commercial offices and professional services such as law firms, accountants, and corporate headquarters
• Retail units and high street premises preparing for new tenants or end of lease handback
• Warehousing, manufacturing, and logistics facilities requiring operational upgrades
• Education buildings including universities, schools, and multi academy trusts
• Residential block management and student accommodation refurbishments
• Childcare nurseries and charity premises requiring compliant, safe environments

Frequently Asked Questions

What are dilapidations in a commercial lease?

Dilapidations are the breaches of a tenant's covenants relating to the condition of a leased property. At the end of a lease, the landlord may serve a Schedule of Dilapidations outlining the repairs, redecoration, and reinstatement works needed to return the property to the condition agreed in the lease. Under Section 18(1) of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1927, any claim for damages is capped at the actual diminution in value of the property, which may be less than the full cost of the works.

Who is responsible for dilapidation works, the landlord or the tenant?

Responsibility depends on the terms of the lease. In most commercial leases, the tenant is responsible for keeping the property in good repair and returning it to its original condition at the end of the tenancy. However, the specific obligations will vary depending on the wording of the lease, the type of property, and whether any licences for alterations were granted during the term.

How long does a commercial refurbishment usually take?

The timeline for a commercial refurbishment depends on the scale and complexity of the project. A cosmetic refresh such as painting, new flooring, and minor repairs may take a few days to a couple of weeks. A full strip out and fit out of a larger commercial unit could take several weeks to a few months. Elevate FM provides a detailed programme of works at the outset so you can plan accordingly.

Can Elevate FM manage both the refurbishment and ongoing building maintenance?

Yes. As a full service facilities management company, Elevate FM can handle your refurbishment or dilapidation project and then continue to support you with planned and reactive building maintenance, HVAC servicing, compliance works, and more. This continuity ensures consistent quality and means you only need one provider for all your property needs.

What is the difference between Cat A and Cat B fit outs?

A Cat A fit out brings a commercial space to a base build standard, typically including raised floors, suspended ceilings, basic mechanical and electrical services, and fire detection systems. A Cat B fit out is the tenant specific installation, which includes partitioning, branding, furniture, IT infrastructure, and bespoke finishes tailored to the occupier's requirements. Elevate FM delivers both types of fit out as part of our refurbishment services.