Schedules of condition.

Schedules of Condition are also often used to set out the condition of a property prior to the commencement of construction or excavation works taking place in close proximity to the subject building. Where such works are subject to the requirements of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, a Schedule of Condition will often be appended to a Party Wall Award.

As the title would suggest, a Photographic Schedule of condition is prepared in a simple format, relying predominantly on photographs. This can be a cost effective and time efficient way to produce a Schedule of Condition although there are limitations in relying purely on the visual images shown in each photograph.

Specialist information can also be included in a schedule to fully record the condition of a building, such as the following;

• CCTV surveys of below ground drainage systems
• Testing and commissioning certification in relation to building services (mechanical and electrical)
• Engineers reports in relation to specific installations (such as passenger lifts as an example)

Dependent upon the situation, it can also be worthwhile preparing a layout drawing and/or a schedule of fixtures and fittings for inclusion within the Schedule of Condition. Such information can become invaluable at lease end in providing clarity as to exactly what existed at the commencement of the term and thereby help to avoid potential disputes over reinstatement requirements.