Warehouse and Loading Bay Dilapidations: What You Need to Know

When it comes to loading bays and warehouses, repairs are part of day-to-day operations.

But over time, “repair, repair, repair” can turn into a false economy.

Equipment that has been patched up several times may no longer be safe, efficient, or compliant.

This is where surveys and comprehensive remedial works can make the difference.

Here’s what you need to know about dilapidations – and how they allow you to take stock, overhaul equipment, and bring loading bays back to a safe, fully compliant condition.

Why Commission a Dilapidation Survey?

There are a few key reasons why businesses turn to dilapidation surveys for their loading bays:

- Safety concerns: equipment that’s been repaired four or five times is often at higher risk of failure.
- The repair trap: quick fixes might keep things moving in the short term, but repeated breakdowns mean higher long-term costs.
- Budget planning: rather than relying on “sticking plasters,” dilapidation surveys allow companies to set aside funds for a full overhaul.
 

What Equipment Is Covered?

Most dilapidation surveys cover all loading bay equipment and doors, typically covering:

- Dock levellers
- Sectional or high-speed doors
- Vehicle restraints
- Dock shelters and bumpers
- Dock traffic lights

It’s an opportunity to upgrade older equipment to modern standards and to carry out more substantial improvements than routine repairs.

For example, many older sectional doors were built without fall back protection, a critical safety feature that prevents doors from dropping suddenly if the springs fail.

A dilapidation project allows these doors to be upgraded and improved to state of the art making them safer and compliant to current standards.

What Are the Benefits?

A structured dilapidation programme offers several advantages over ongoing repairs:

- Improved safety for staff and vehicle drivers.
- Compliance with current regulations.
- Better cost control by reducing repeat breakdowns.
- Increased efficiency through reliable, modern equipment.
 

How Does a Dilapidation Survey Work? 

Customers can typically expect:

- Condition reporting: a clear view of what’s safe, what’s nearing end-of-life, and what needs urgent attention
- Compliance checks: ensuring equipment meets current health, safety, and regulatory standards
- Repair or replacement recommendations: identifying when refurbishment is viable or when full replacement is the safest option
- A clear plan of works: giving you the information needed to budget and schedule remedial or refurbishment works without disruption to operations.
 

Considering a Dilapidation Survey? 

With loading bay doors and equipment experiencing daily impacts and wear, proactive businesses know that dilapidation surveys and works offer the chance to go beyond simple repairs and fully refurbish their loading bays.

That’s why Stertil Stokvis offers detailed surveys, clear reporting, and tailored recommendations to restore performance, improve safety, and extend the life of your equipment.

Get in touch today to book your survey and see how we can help transform your loading bay.

Contact Stertil Stokvis on 0870 770 0471, option 2, option 4, or email helpdesk@stertil.co.uk.