What is a Schedule of Condition?
The Schedule of Condition Survey serves as the most effective tool to verify damage done by building works.
The neighbouring properties receive a Schedule of Condition Survey to document the existing condition of their home prior to works commencing.
Is a Schedule of Condition compulsory?
A Schedule of Condition survey is an important document included in Awards under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 even though it is not a mandatory requirement.
Building works should start only after completion of a Schedule of Condition, which is a written report with photographic records about the adjoining owner’s building condition prior to the works commencing.
A request for damage compensation during or post work completion depends on the references contained within the schedule.
Do I need a Schedule of Condition?
Building works should have a schedule of condition which serves as a prior inspection report. A property receives its “snap shot” assessment at the point of inspection demonstrate the building condition prior to the party wall works commencing next door.
Building Owners should arrange for a Schedule of Condition to be performed on neighbouring properties which may be affected by the works because this reduces their exposure to unmerited damage claims. Building Owners may bear responsibility to prove existing damage was non-existent before started their construction activities.
What is included in a Schedule of Condition?
When preparing a party wall schedule of condition, the inspector documents the present state of ceilings, walls and floors in rooms near work areas as defined in the party wall notice.
External elevation condition along with several other aspects can be recorded as part of the inspection process. The examination of glazing, brickwork and plastered surfaces represent the main recorded findings.
The important point is that the areas which are in close proximity to the neighbour’s works and any areas which may be subsequently affected are taken into account.
How is a Schedule of Condition carried out?
The inspection method follows visual observation and is non-invasive. It does not require moving carpets, floor coverings, furniture or similar items.
An external examination from the ground level to roofs, chimneys and other surfaces of the building may be conducted where relevant.
An examination of all shared building spaces together with boundary walls and fences and permanent outbuildings must also be performed if applicable.
An inspector will take photos with their camera and may test for damp with a damp-meter. They may also have other equipment such as binoculars, usually to inspect a roof more closely, as well as a torch and short ladder, often for inspecting loft spaces.
A safe access point to the loft space allows for a roof structure internal examination if it is available.
The examination scope may include inspection of basements and areas underneath floors, as long as safe entry and access methods exist.
The evaluation includes photograph-taking (with annotation), description of defects and their location.
How do I use a Schedule of Condition to protect my property?
The Party Wall Award usually includes a Schedule of Condition which serves as proof when verifying if any harm has occurred, thus establishing an objective marker for reference. The inspector can determine necessary remedial works through the Schedule of Condition to restore property standards as recorded in that document.
Does a Schedule of Condition benefit the Building Owner?
A Schedule of Condition also serves to defend Building Owners from incorrect damage claims because it clearly shows pre-existing defects which have been documented.
Can London Party Wall Survey organise a Schedule of Condition on my Property?
Yes. The London Party Wall Surveyors on our panel provide Schedule of Condition surveys for both party wall procedures and independent requests.
