Dilapidations claims and The Art of War: Timeless lessons for avoiding litigation

Sun Tzu was an ancient Chinese military strategist, general and philosopher thought to be the author of The Art of War. He is believed to have lived c. 544–496 bce. The Art of War contains a series of lessons on how best to prepare to win without, ideally, ever having to fight. The lessons provide some readily transferable (and for these particular purposes light-hearted) tactical reminders for any property professional assisting a client who may otherwise find themselves facing the battle of bi-party litigation. If a possible source of dispute can be headed off at the pass, or a settlement can be reached without darkening the door of the courtroom, that is a good win for all concerned. This paper is adapted from Janet and Adam’s original ‘Art of War’ lecture delivered at the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Dilapidations Conference in London on 26th March, 2024.