Commercial property surveying covers a different range of services from residential surveying — and the stakes are often higher, given the scale of commercial transactions and lease obligations. If you're a landlord, tenant, investor, or business owner dealing with commercial property in South East London, here's what you need to know.
What is a commercial building survey?
A commercial building survey is a detailed inspection of a commercial property — offices, retail units, industrial premises, mixed-use buildings, or any non-residential property. It covers the structure, fabric, services, roof, accessibility, and any occupational risks.
Commercial building surveys are typically carried out for buyers or tenants before committing to a purchase or lease. They identify defects, establish repair liabilities, and highlight issues that could affect the property's value or suitability for your intended use.
Schedules of condition
A schedule of condition is a photographic and written record of the state of a property at a particular point in time — usually the start of a lease. It's a vital document for tenants because it establishes what the property was like when you took it on, protecting you from being held responsible for pre-existing defects when the lease ends.
If you're signing a commercial lease and the landlord hasn't offered a schedule of condition, you should ask for one. It's a straightforward document but an important protection.
Dilapidations surveys
At the end of a commercial lease, landlords can serve a dilapidations schedule — a claim for the cost of putting the property back into the condition required by the lease. This can be a significant financial exposure for tenants.
A dilapidations survey, carried out by an independent surveyor, establishes what works are actually required under the lease obligations — and challenges inflated or unjustified claims from landlords. For landlords, it establishes the legitimate scope of reinstatement works you can expect the tenant to carry out or fund.
💡 Dilapidations disputes are one of the most common sources of commercial property litigation. An independent surveyor's assessment significantly strengthens your negotiating position and can save substantial sums.
Commercial investment valuations
Commercial property valuations are more complex than residential ones — they incorporate rental income, yield, lease terms, covenant strength, and a range of other factors. If you're acquiring commercial property as an investment, or need a valuation for financing, disposal, or portfolio management purposes, an independent commercial valuation gives you the evidence you need to make informed decisions.
Party wall advice for commercial properties
The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 applies equally to commercial properties. If you're planning works that affect a party wall, boundary, or neighbouring structure, you have legal obligations to notify and in some cases reach formal agreement with your neighbours. This applies to basement excavations, extensions, alterations to shared walls, and new structures at the boundary.
What should I look for in a commercial surveyor in London?
When choosing a commercial surveyor, the most important considerations are:
- Experience with your property type — an office specialist and an industrial specialist are different people
- Local market knowledge — South East London commercial property has distinct characteristics
- Professional accreditation — look for formal qualifications and professional body membership
- Clear, actionable reports — the report needs to be usable in negotiations and legal contexts
- PI insurance — professional indemnity insurance is non-negotiable
📋 SurveyCORE provides commercial surveying services across South East London, including building surveys, schedules of condition, dilapidations, and valuations. Get in touch for a quote.