Condition
![]() |
![]() |
In relation to the built environment, the term ‘condition’ may refer to the state of something, i.e. its appearance, working order, quality, and so on, or it may refer to legal requirements set out in formal documents.
For example, condition surveys are a means of providing a detailed evaluation of a property's state and involve an extensive inspection. For more information, see Building survey.
A schedule of condition (SOC) is a factual record of the condition of a property that can be used as a benchmark against which its condition can be assessed in the future and any changes identified. For more information, see Schedule of condition.
Other surveys that might be undertaken to assess the condition of something include: structural surveys, site surveys, habitat surveys, soil surveys and so on.
In legal terms, a ‘condition’ is an agreement which may impact upon certain rights, liabilities, or obligations. An express condition is one that is stipulated, i.e. written down, whereas an implied condition is one that is deemed to be automatically present.
Contract conditions set out the principal legal relationship between the parties to a construction project, determining the allocation of risk, specification, price, method of working and so on. For more information see Contract conditions.
With regard to planning, rather than refusing a planning application, a local authority might grant permission, but with conditions. These conditions might require additional approvals for specific aspects of the development (such as the colour of materials), or might restrict the use of the site (for example, limiting operating hours). For more information, see Planning condition.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
An artist, philanthropist and ex-Army helicopter pilot
Q and A with self-representing artist, Hannah Shergold.
Building Safety Regulator appoints permanent director
And publishes three-year strategic plan.
Update on the Energy Savings Opportunity Scheme (ESOS)
Introducing changes to make it more effective from 2024.
2023 CIOB photography competition
Shortlist announced for 2023 public choice award vote.
The last of the Victorians. Book review.
Grimsby's Kasbah: where’s that?
An exotic name that is shrouded in mystery.
This weeks guest editor, Ankita Dwivedi of Firstplanit.
Fropm practice to research and the business of materials.
Terms, histories, theories and practices.
Types of work to existing buildings - repurposing of buildings
Alteration and everything else before demolition.
2023 HSE data on workplace injuries and ill health
And CIOB's response.
Building Safety Act and Secondary Legislation
Presidential update from CIAT's Eddie Weir PCIAT.
Starting pistol Statement for an election campaign?
Rates freeze, NI cuts, full expensing; early election?
Positive pressure or positive input ventilation
Could this be a remedy for condensation, damp or mould?
Unlocking a Healthier Tomorrow
Report on Social housing retrofit in Scotland 2023
Call for ministerial group and National Retrofit Delivery Plan.