CBC
Service · Landlord-side

Interim schedule of dilapidations

A schedule served during the term of the lease, where the landlord cannot wait until lease end to require remedial works. Less common than terminal schedules, but powerful where used at the right moment.

Author
CBC Surveyors
Updated
Updated 2026
Reading time
4 min read

Overview

Interim schedules are not lease-end documents. They are mid-term tools used where ongoing deterioration is causing real damage to the reversion, or where the lease has substantial unexpired term and the landlord wants the tenant to remedy breaches now, not later.

When interim schedules are used

The most common scenarios are:

  • Substantial unexpired term remaining (typically 3+ years)
  • Active, ongoing deterioration evident on inspection
  • Tenant covenant strength is in question
  • Risk of the property falling materially out of repair before expiry

What an interim schedule contains

The structure mirrors a terminal schedule, item by item, lease clause, breach, remedial works and cost, but typically focuses on items where ongoing deterioration is the primary concern. Reinstatement items are usually deferred to the terminal schedule.

What the landlord is looking for

An interim schedule is generally aimed at compelling the tenant to undertake remedial works rather than at recovering damages. Damages during the term are limited by what the landlord can show is the actual loss to the reversion, and by the 1938 Act where it applies.

Key takeaways

What to remember

  • 01Interim schedules are powerful but constrained, get specialist input first.
  • 02The 1938 Act materially shapes what the landlord can practically achieve.
  • 03Where the lease is short, a terminal schedule is usually the right tool.
Considering an interim

Concerned about deterioration mid-term?

Send the lease and a brief description of the concerns, and a specialist surveyor will advise on the right instrument and the right moment to deploy it.
Common questions

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