When your office lease is nearing its end, one of the most common questions is:
“How long will the dilapidations process take?”
The truth is, there’s no single answer — the duration depends on your office size, lease requirements, and the scope of reinstatement works. However, with proper planning and a reliable reinstatement contractor, the process can be managed efficiently without stress or delays.
At London Dilaps Ltd, we’ve helped countless London businesses plan and complete their end of lease dilapidations on time and within budget. Here’s what you need to know about timelines, planning, and avoiding last-minute pressure.
What Determines the Length of Dilapidation Works?
Every project is different, but the overall timescale for office dilapidations usually depends on a few key factors:
- Size and complexity of the office — Larger or more heavily modified spaces naturally take longer to reinstate.
- Condition of the property — If significant repairs or maintenance are needed, timelines increase.
- Scope of reinstatement — A full CAT A reinstatement will take longer than minor decorative works.
- Access and landlord approvals — Delays can occur if permissions, surveys, or inspections are slow to arrange.
- Contractor scheduling — Booking a reputable dilapidations contractor early ensures work starts on time.
Office Reinstatement in London
Typical Office Dilapidations Timeline
To help you plan effectively, here’s a realistic breakdown of how long the dilapidations process takes in London — from the first lease review to the final handover:
6–9 Months Before Lease End: Initial Planning
- Review your lease obligations with your solicitor or property advisor.
- Arrange a dilapidations survey to identify potential reinstatement works.
- Begin budgeting for costs and timelines.
- Find out more about London Office Dilapidations here
Tip: Early planning allows you to control costs and avoid inflated “urgent” contractor rates later.
3–6 Months Before Lease End: Contractor Engagement
- Appoint a trusted reinstatement contractor to provide a quote.
- Confirm your move-out date and align project schedules.
- Secure any landlord or building management approvals.
- Finalise your budget and work plan.
At this point, London Dilaps Ltd typically prepares a comprehensive dilapidations schedule — detailing every reinstatement, repair, and redecoration item required.
1–3 Months Before Lease End: Works Begin
- Strip-out and reinstatement works start on-site.
- Contractors remove partitions, furniture, and tenant installations.
- Repairs, repainting, flooring, and compliance works are completed.
Small to medium offices may require 2–4 weeks for full reinstatement. Larger or more complex spaces can take 6–10 weeks depending on scope and approvals.
Final 2 Weeks: Inspection and Handover
- A final inspection is arranged with the landlord or managing agent.
- Any final snagging or touch-ups are completed.
- Certificates and documentation are provided to confirm completion.
With the right planning, your office is handed back on time — avoiding costly holdover rent or landlord charges.
Average Duration by Office Size
| Office Size | Typical Duration | Typical Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Small office (under 2,000 sq ft) | 2–3 weeks | Basic redecoration & minor repairs |
| Medium office (2,000–5,000 sq ft) | 4–6 weeks | Strip-out, repainting, and reinstatement |
| Large office (5,000+ sq ft) | 6–10+ weeks | Full CAT A reinstatement, M&E, flooring |
Find out more about Dilapidations services in London here
How to Keep Dilapidations on Schedule
Delays often come from poor coordination, unclear scope, or late contractor engagement.
Here’s how to stay on track:
- Start early — Planning at least six months out gives you flexibility.
- Engage specialists — Use an experienced dilapidations contractor who understands lease compliance.
- Maintain communication — Keep all parties (landlord, surveyor, contractor) updated.
- Allow for inspections — Build in time for approvals and final sign-offs.
- Avoid scope creep — Stick to the agreed reinstatement plan to prevent delays and cost increases.
Why Timing Matters
Every extra day you remain in occupation after your lease end can lead to holding over rent — effectively paying rent without the benefit of the lease.
Late handovers can also affect your landlord’s ability to re-let or refurbish the property, which may trigger additional claims.
By planning well and partnering with a reliable contractor, you can hand back your property on time, on budget, and without dispute.
Office Dilapidations in London
Working with London Dilaps Ltd
At London Dilaps Ltd, we provide complete commercial dilapidations services in London, handling every step — from surveys and scheduling to full CAT A reinstatement.
Our team ensures that:
- All lease obligations are met
- Work is completed efficiently
- Handover happens seamlessly and on schedule
Find out more about commercial office dilapidations here
We pride ourselves on delivering stress-free lease exits for London businesses of all sizes.
Contact London Dilaps Ltd today for a free consultation or quote on your upcoming dilapidations project.