The Dilapidations protocol was formally adopted as part of the Civil Procedure Rules at the beginning of this month (1 January 2012).
The protocol has previously been followed by lawyers to ensure good practice when resolving dilapidations disputes between commercial landlords and tenants. The protocol has now however, been given formal status as part of the CPR to continue to ensure the effective management and resolution of disputes arising when a tenant vacates commercial premises.
It will be interesting to see what effect the formal adoption of the protocol has in reducing the number of parties litigating in this area.
