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15 April 2025

Why Landlords Need to Complete Works Before Letting a Property and How a Surveyor Can Help

Pre-Letting Works: Why They Matter

Before letting a commercial or industrial property, landlords must ensure the building is safe, compliant, and ready to occupy. Completing essential works before the lease starts protects the landlord’s investment, reduces liability, and makes the property more appealing to potential tenants.

Key Reasons to Complete Pre-Letting Works

Legal Compliance – Buildings must meet health and safety standards. This includes current electrical (EICR) and gas safety certificates, as well as safe access and exit routes.

Tenant Appeal – A well-maintained property with no outstanding repairs is more attractive to tenants and can often secure higher rents.

Avoiding Future Disputes – Fixing issues before the lease begins helps prevent disagreements about repair responsibilities later on.

Lease Requirements – Long-term leases (e.g. 10 years) often require the property to be in good condition. Tenants expect it, and landlords may need to agree to certain works during negotiations.

How a Surveyor Supports Pre-Letting

Site Inspection: A building surveyor inspects the property to identify any repairs or upgrades needed before occupation.

  • Common issues include:
  • Replacing skylights in warehouse areas
  • Removing mezzanine floors and making good the surface
  • Ensuring the roof is wind- and watertight
  • Servicing and repairing roller shutter doors
  • Clearing and fixing gutters and drains
  • Repairing damaged cladding
  • Any other essential works for safe use

Roof Inspection: A cherry picker is often used to carry out a close-up roof inspection. This helps spot defects that aren’t visible from ground level.

Managing Works: The surveyor can specify the necessary works, appoint contractors, and oversee the process to ensure quality and efficiency.

Schedule of Condition: Once the works are complete, the surveyor returns to document the building’s condition. This includes:

  • Detailed photos and written descriptions
  • Another roof inspection using a cherry picker
  • A full report to attach to the lease, helping protect the landlord by limiting the tenant’s future repair obligations

 



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