News & Insights
Practical Commercial Property Guidance for Sales, Lettings and Acquisitions
Informed perspectives on the issues shaping commercial property across the West Midlands and surrounding areas.
Our News & Insights page brings together market commentary, transactional updates and professional analysis from the GJS Dillon team. From regional supply and demand trends to legislative change and strategic guidance, we share the insights that help owners, occupiers and investors make better-informed decisions.
Stay connected to the conversations influencing the commercial property market and the opportunities emerging within it.
10 Reasons why a commercial property valuation is essential
A commercial property valuation is an essential tool for investors, landlords, business owners, and property managers looking to make informed decisions. Conducted in accordance with Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Red Book standards, a professional valuation provides an accurate assessment of a property’s market value based on current market conditions, rental income, lease terms, and comparable evidence.
Commercial property valuations are crucial when buying or selling property, setting rental values, securing commercial finance, managing pension assets, handling probate, or meeting tax and accounting requirements. They also play a key role during mergers, business restructuring, renovations, and insurance claims by helping assess investment performance, reinstatement costs, and potential income loss.
By combining on-site inspections, market analysis, and industry expertise, a commercial property valuation delivers reliable, evidence-based insights that support confident financial and strategic decision-making. Whether for investment, compliance, or financial reporting, an accurate valuation ensures your commercial property assets are properly understood and protected.
New EPC Requirements for Commercial Properties: What They Mean for Your Business
New EPC Requirements for Commercial Properties: What They Mean for Your Business
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) are a critical component of commercial property compliance in England and Wales, with tightening regulations under the Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards (MEES) reshaping how landlords, investors, and occupiers manage their assets. An EPC rates a building’s energy efficiency from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient) and is now a key driver of asset value, tenant demand, and long-term investment performance—not just a legal requirement.
Since April 2023, all commercial properties must hold a minimum EPC rating of E to be legally let, with substandard F or G-rated properties restricted unless exemptions apply. Looking ahead, regulations will become significantly stricter, requiring a minimum rating of C by 2027 and B by 2030, alongside more rigorous assessment criteria, enhanced reporting, and shorter certificate validity periods.
To remain compliant and competitive, property owners should adopt a proactive, consultancy-led approach. This includes reviewing current EPC ratings, engaging accredited assessors, and implementing phased improvement strategies such as upgrading insulation, improving glazing, installing energy-efficient systems, transitioning to LED lighting, and exploring renewable energy solutions.
While compliance requires investment, it also presents substantial benefits: reduced operational costs, increased asset value, improved tenant retention, enhanced ESG performance, and lower long-term maintenance risks. Early planning is essential to manage costs, avoid leasing restrictions, and minimise disruption.
By taking a structured, forward-thinking approach to EPC compliance, commercial property stakeholders can protect their assets, meet evolving regulatory demands, and unlock long-term value in an increasingly sustainability-driven market.
We’re hiring - Property & Compliance Manager
Join a growing team as a Property & Compliance Manager overseeing a diverse commercial and residential portfolio. This role involves property inspections, statutory compliance (including asbestos, fire risk, gas safety, and H&S), contractor coordination, and tenant management. Ideal for an organised, proactive professional with strong communication skills and Microsoft Outlook proficiency.
Excellent opportunity for career development within a supportive property management team.
How Dilapidations effect tenants
Understanding Commercial Lease Dilapidations: A Guide for Tenants
Dilapidations refer to a tenant’s obligations to maintain, repair, and decorate a property during and at the end of a commercial lease. Contrary to popular belief, dilapidations aren’t limited to run-down properties—they apply to all leased premises. Failing to meet these obligations can result in significant dilapidation liabilities, including costly repairs or reinstatement required by landlords.
Tenants should carefully review their lease terms, understand their repair responsibilities, and consider how any alterations might affect costs at lease end. Proactive steps such as maintaining a property, keeping detailed records, requesting a Schedule of Condition, and seeking professional dilapidation surveys can significantly reduce potential liabilities.
With disputes on the rise, understanding your dilapidation liability is crucial. Professional advice from experienced building consultants, like those at GJS Dillon, can help tenants navigate lease agreements, terminal schedules, and negotiation strategies to protect their interests and avoid costly surprises.
Contact GJS Dillon for expert guidance on all aspects of dilapidations, from lease interpretation to claim investigation, ensuring tenants are fully informed and prepared.
Supporting Clients Through Every Stage of the Property Journey
Industrial Letting Success in Evesham, Worcestershire
GJS Dillon successfully delivered a full letting of a high-specification 80,236 sq ft industrial and distribution facility at Vale Business Park in Evesham, Worcestershire. Acting on behalf of the landlord and outgoing occupier Karndean, the team implemented a targeted local and national marketing strategy to secure Pavilion Broadway, a premium furniture retailer, as the new tenant.
The modern premises, comprising warehouse, office, and mezzanine space, is now operating as a key distribution hub supporting Pavilion Broadway’s retail operations. GJS Dillon also provided expert oversight by reviewing the Schedule of Condition to protect the landlord’s interests and minimise future risk.
Following completion, GJS Dillon’s property management team continues to support the asset through ongoing lease management, inspections, and rent collection, ensuring long-term performance. This success highlights GJS Dillon’s expertise in large-scale industrial lettings, commercial property management, and end-to-end client support across the property lifecycle.
Maximise your pension with commercial property.
Maximise your pension with commercial property through a SIPP or SSAS. Benefit from tax-free rental income, no capital gains tax on sale, and the option to purchase your business premises for added efficiency. With strong growth potential and estate planning advantages, commercial property can be a powerful addition to your pension—when guided by expert advice to ensure compliance and protect value.
Headquarters Office Premises in Redditch Sold for Future Care Home Development
A prominent headquarters office building in Redditch has been sold for over £3 million, paving the way for a major care home development. The site, Osprey House on Albert Street, spans 1.7 acres and offers more than 30,000 sq ft of commercial space. Previously used as an educational facility until May 2022, the property became vacant following the relocation of Heart of Worcestershire College to its expanded Bromsgrove campus.
The site has been acquired by MACC Care Group, a leading Midlands-based care home provider known for delivering high-quality elderly nursing, dementia, and residential care facilities. Plans are in place to redevelop the Redditch site into a state-of-the-art, 98-bedroom care home across three storeys, helping to meet growing demand for elderly accommodation in the area. The development is also expected to create around 60 full-time jobs, boosting the local economy.
The sale was completed by commercial property consultancy GJS Dillon, who reported strong market interest in the site. The deal reflects a wider shift in demand away from large headquarters office buildings toward alternative uses and modern SME-focused commercial spaces. By securing a care sector occupier, the site will remain a valuable employment hub while addressing local care needs.
Redditch continues to attract commercial property interest, with businesses recognising its strategic location and growth potential. For those looking to sell, let, or acquire commercial property in Redditch, including office space, industrial units, and warehouses, expert advice is available from local specialists.
Top Reasons Every Commercial Property Needs a Planned Preventative Maintenance Schedule
A planned preventative maintenance (PPM) schedule is essential for maintaining the value, efficiency, and long-term performance of commercial property assets. Proactive maintenance helps landlords protect investment value, improve tenant satisfaction, ensure regulatory compliance, reduce operational disruptions, and enhance energy efficiency. By supporting sustainability goals and enabling effective long-term budgeting, a structured maintenance strategy safeguards property performance while maximising rental appeal and profitability.
How a Commercial Property Valuation Supports Tenants and Landlords in Today’s Economic Climate
Commercial property valuations provide essential insight for landlords, tenants, and investors navigating today’s economic climate. Accurate valuations help businesses manage rental costs, support effective portfolio management, prevent landlord-tenant disputes, and ensure compliance with RICS Red Book requirements for SIPP and SSAS pension schemes. Understanding a property’s true market value enables informed financial planning and confident long-term investment decisions.
Informed Decisions, Protected Investment: Pre-Acquisition Survey & Valuation of a Listed Office
GJS Dillon were instructed to provide a pre-acquisition valuation and building survey for an adjoining occupier considering the off-market purchase of a neighbouring Grade II listed office building. Initial investigations revealed the property had been in the same ownership for over 40 years and had suffered from prolonged lack of maintenance, presenting significant refurbishment and hidden structural risks. By combining detailed valuation advice with a comprehensive building survey, substantial disrepair and structural failure were identified, with refurbishment costs far exceeding expectations. This integrated, independent advice enabled the client to make an informed decision not to proceed, ultimately protecting them from a potentially costly investment mistake.
We’re hiring - Chartered Surveyor (Landlord and Tenant)
GJS Dillon is seeking a Chartered Surveyor specialising in Landlord and Tenant services to join its Professional Services team in Droitwich. The role involves commercial rent reviews, lease renewals and valuation work, offering flexible working, career progression and professional development within a leading commercial property consultancy.
The changing role of a building surveyor: Why they are essential for commercial property owners
The role of the building surveyor has evolved rapidly in recent years, driven by new regulations, sustainability expectations, technology, and growing pressure on commercial property performance.
2026 predictions for Worcestershire’s commercial property market
John Dillon’s 2026 predictions for Worcestershire’s commercial property market are as follows:
There is still a distinct shortage of commercial property in Worcestershire and the wider west midlands area which will continue to influence rents and capital values.
Safeguard your property with a current Reinstatement Cost Assessment (RCA)
A must for 2026 is to safeguard your property with a Reinstatement Cost Assessment (RCA.) Also known as a building reinstatement cost assessment, it provides a precise evaluation of the cost required to reinstate a property and its contents, after damage, including materials, labour, clean-up etc. This differs from a valuation of the property, which is a researched current market value of the property based on location, size etc. to gain a sale/purchase price.
Seamless Relocation and Fit-Out for Veterinary Practices
A local vet surgery business had grown significantly over the last 18 months, which meant that their current premises was no longer suitable to accommodate the increase in demand for their services. They decided they needed to relocate to larger premises that could support day-to-day operations and future expansion. The priority was to understand what would be required to make the new space work as a modern vets practice and to manage the move without unnecessary disruption.
Protecting a landlord’s position at lease expiry.
In 2023, Moreton Business Park, Herefordshire required a series of Schedule of Condition surveys to document the state of various warehouse units prior to new lease agreements. The goal was to protect the landlord’s long-term asset value and reduce the risk of disputes at the end of leases regarding damage, alterations, or dilapidation claims.
Inheritance Tax Valuation Success: Securing Freehold Ownership to Maximise Commercial Property Value
GJS Dillon were instructed to provide a valuation of a commercial premises in Blackpole, Worcester, for Inheritance Tax purposes.
Comprehensive Commercial Property Management – Stella House, Evesham
GJS Dillon was appointed to provide a complete solution for EPL’s property needs. Our role encompassed pre-acquisition advice, full-scale property management, tenant relations, lease event management, and building consultancy services.
Property Asset Management of Wildwood Triangle Office Development, Worcester
In June 2015, Maximus, a privately owned Worcester-based development and investment company, appointed GJS Dillon to property asset manage the 42,000 sq ft Wildwood Triangle office park. The site comprised five self-contained, modern office buildings near County Hall, Worcester, developed in 2005/06.
Strategic Warehouse Acquisition of 267,066 sq ft, on behalf of Mapei UK Ltd
Mapei UK Ltd, a leading manufacturer of chemical products for the building industry, was experiencing continued growth in the UK and needed a new warehouse and distribution facility near their existing Halesowen manufacturing plant. We guided them through the leasehold acquisition process from offer to completion, ensuring all operational and strategic requirements were met.