Lea Hough Chartered Surveyors were recently instructed to conduct a programme of Schedules of Condition as part of a £2 million improvement project in Carlisle. Our Surveyors were asked to carry out reports on 17 properties on Devonshire Street, a historic street within the Carlisle Town Centre Conservation Area.
Working alongside contractor Eric Wright Construction, Cumberland Council, and the property owners, Schedules of Condition were prepared on all the properties on Devonshire Street before the commencement of a significant regeneration project. The project, which meant the closure of the street for a 5 month period, involved upgrades including outdoor seating, street furniture, benches, cycle parking, trees, and plants.
Lea Hough’s role involved assessing the condition of the various properties, examining the structure, façade, interiors, and any external features, to establish a baseline for future comparison.
Upon completion of the inspections, our team prepared comprehensive Schedule of Condition reports, documenting the existing condition of each property. These reports provided evidence to all parties involved.
Our primary objective during this project was not only to assess the condition of these historic properties but also to ensure that any works undertaken by the contractor to the road and pavements did not cause any damage to the privately owned properties. Therefore, we conducted follow-up inspections following the completion of the improvement works to assess whether any potential damage had occurred.
The completion of this project on Devonshire Street highlights the importance of collaboration between Surveyors, contractors and local councils. By working together, we were able to ensure the protection of the historic properties within the Carlisle Town Centre Conservation Area, safeguarding the interests of the privately owned properties and businesses located in the area.
A Note on Schedules of Condition
Schedules of Condition are important documents that provide a detailed account of the condition of a property at a specific point in time. This is particularly important for all parties where sensitive works are being carried out on or adjacent existing properties.
They often serve as a reference point for future comparison. They can be used in negotiations, dilapidations claims, insurance claims, party wall matters, and legal proceedings. By providing a comprehensive understanding of a property’s condition, Schedules of Condition benefit all parties involved.
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