A post-work Schedule of Condition check-off is a follow-up inspection carried out after nearby works have finished (or after the notifiable stage has completed) to compare the current condition of the property against the original Schedule of Condition. Its purpose is straightforward: to confirm whether anything has changed, identify any new damage or deterioration, and provide a clear, documented basis for closing matters down fairly.
Think of the original Schedule of Condition as the “before” record. The post-work check-off is the “after” comparison.
This is not about being adversarial. It is a practical, evidence-led step that helps everyone finish the process with clarity.
1) Why a post-work check-off matters
A) It confirms the outcome, not just the intention
A pre-works Schedule of Condition is preventative. It records the baseline. A post-work check-off completes the picture by establishing what the property looks like after the relevant works have been carried out.
Without a post-work inspection, it is easier for:
- genuine issues to be missed until they worsen, or
- minor, historic defects to be mistakenly linked to the works months later.
A check-off reduces uncertainty for both owners.
B) It supports quick resolution of any concerns
If a change is identified early:
- it can often be repaired quickly and cost-effectively,
- before redecorations are delayed or contractors demobilise,
- and before positions harden into formal disputes.
It is far easier to resolve a hairline crack promptly than to argue over it a year later.
C) It provides a clean close-out point
A post-work check-off gives a clear “close-out” moment:
- works are complete,
- condition has been compared,
- any issues have been agreed and recorded.
That clarity is valuable even when there is no damage, because it reduces lingering uncertainty.
2) What happens during a check-off inspection?
A professional check-off typically involves:
- Reviewing the original Schedule of Condition before attending, so the inspector knows what defects already existed and where.
- Revisiting the same areas in a logical sequence, usually following the original report structure room-by-room and elevation-by-elevation.
- Comparing:
- existing cracks to earlier photos and notes,
- any staining or water marks,
- junctions and corners (common movement points),
- finishes and surfaces close to the work area.
- Recording any changes, typically using:
- updated photographs from comparable angles,
- written notes describing the change,
- crack measurements where relevant.
- Confirming the outcome:
- no change identified (close-out), or
- changes identified (move to remedy discussion).
A good inspector will aim for repeatability—taking photos from similar viewpoints so the comparison is clear.
3) What the check-off report usually includes
A post-work check-off may be issued as a short report or addendum that:
- references the original Schedule of Condition (date and version)
- lists areas inspected (and any that could not be inspected)
- confirms whether changes were observed
- identifies any new defects, with:
- precise location references,
- photographic evidence (before-and-after comparison),
- notes on extent (length/width/area) where relevant
- recommends next steps if issues are found (repair, monitoring, further inspection)
In many cases, the check-off document is concise because it is largely a comparison exercise.
4) When should a post-work check-off be carried out?
Timing matters. The inspection should be done:
- after the relevant works are completed, and
- ideally before contractors fully leave site, so issues can be addressed quickly.
However, there are situations where a later check may be sensible, for example:
- where finishes will be completed later in the programme,
- where drying-out and settlement could reveal minor cracking,
- where monitoring is more appropriate than immediate repair.
The best timing depends on the nature of the works and the property.
5) What if the check-off finds damage?
If changes are identified, the check-off provides the evidence base to agree what happens next. Typically, the discussion focuses on:
A) Attribution (is it linked to the works?)
The check-off does not automatically prove causation, but it:
- isolates what is new, and
- helps assess whether the change is consistent with the nature and location of the works.
B) Remedy (what is the appropriate solution?)
Common remedies include:
- making good repairs (plaster repair, redecorations, repointing, replacing cracked tiles),
- targeted reinstatement of finishes,
- or compensation in lieu of repair where appropriate.
C) Timing (when will it be dealt with?)
Early identification helps ensure repairs happen while site access and contractors are still practical.
6) What if access for the check-off is refused or delayed?
A post-work check-off relies on access. If access is delayed:
- issues may be raised later, but the link to the works becomes harder to assess,
- repair costs may rise, and
- positions can become less cooperative.
Even if someone is reluctant, it is generally in everyone’s interest to complete the check-off promptly and calmly.
7) Common misunderstandings about check-offs
“A check-off is only needed if there’s damage.”
Not necessarily. A “no change” check-off is often just as valuable because it provides a clear close-out record.
“It’s just a quick look.”
A proper check-off is not a casual walk-around. It is a structured comparison against a baseline record.
“If damage exists, it must be caused by the works.”
Not always. The point of the baseline schedule and check-off is to separate:
- pre-existing condition,
- general wear and tear,
- and genuine change potentially linked to works.
8) Practical guidance: how to prepare for a check-off
If you are expecting a post-work inspection:
- have the original report available
- ensure access is provided to the same rooms/areas where possible
- point out any concerns you’ve noticed (with dates if possible)
- avoid redecorating or patch repairs beforehand if you want defects assessed accurately
In summary
A post-work Schedule of Condition check-off is the final, practical step in an evidence-led approach:
- it compares “before” and “after,”
- confirms whether anything has changed,
- supports fair and efficient resolution of any issues,
- and provides closure for both parties.
Arrange a post-work Schedule of Condition check-off
If you would like a professional post-work check-off inspection—either to confirm close-out or to document changes clearly—email mail@howorth.uk or call 07794 400 212.