What is a Schedule of Condition?
A Schedule of Condition is a detailed inspection of a property carried out before any building work begins. Its purpose is to provide a comprehensive snapshot of the property’s current state, so that the condition is clearly documented before works start.
A Schedule of Condition helps to protect both the Building Owner and the Adjoining Owner, providing an objective record that can be referred to if any disputes or claims of damage arise during or after the works. In short, it is a critical safeguard for Party Wall projects, protecting your property and helping prevent disputes before they happen.
What Does a Schedule of Condition Include?
What's included
Thoroughly records ceilings, walls and floors near proposed works.
Includes external elevations where relevant.
Captures a clear snapshot of your property’s current condition.
Provides written and photographic evidence for full clarity.
Conducted before any construction or renovation begins.
Establishes a reliable baseline to assess future damage.
Feel confident your property’s condition is clearly documented.
Key points to note
Provides factual records only, without opinions on defect causes.
Non-intrusive inspection, no opening of structures.
Does not assess structural integrity of the building.
Records only visible and immediately apparent defects at inspection time.
Not a RICS Condition Report, Homebuyer Report or Building Survey.
Latent or hidden defects not visible at the time may go unrecorded.
Why You Need a Schedule of Condition
Before any building work begins, you need peace of mind that your property is protected. A Schedule of Condition does exactly that. It’s a detailed photographic and written record of your property’s condition before construction starts next door acting as your safety net if damage occurs later.
Without it, you’re relying on memory and trust alone. If cracks or damage appear after the work begins, it can be hard to prove when or how they happened. Disputes become stressful, time-consuming and expensive.
With a Schedule of Condition in place, you have clear, independent evidence that protects you and your neighbour. It helps avoid conflict, speeds up resolution and gives everyone confidence that the project is being managed fairly and professionally.
At Hudson Party Wall Surveyors we make the process simple. Our surveyors carefully inspect and record every relevant detail, ensuring you’re covered so you can move forward with complete confidence.
Protect your property. Prevent disputes. Get peace of mind with a Schedule of Condition.
Legal Reference Point
A schedule of condition usually forms part of the Party Wall Award and can be referred back to in the event any damage is caused, acting as a reference point. This enables the surveyor to identify the works required in order for the property to be returned to the standard recorded within the schedule of condition.
Protection from False Claims
A schedule of condition can also protect the building owner from mistaken claims as any existing defects will be clearly identified and documented. This prevents disputes over pre-existing conditions versus new damage.
Photographic Evidence
Comprehensive photographic documentation provides irrefutable visual evidence of property conditions before works commence, ensuring accurate assessment of any future damage claims.
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Frequently asked questions
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Gallery
Examples of our projects, where we’ve expertly guided property owners and adjoining neighbours through the complexities of the Party Wall Act.
