BUILDING SURVEYING
If you are acquiring property or are already an owner you will probably need a Building Surveyor for one or more of the following: -

a) A Condition Survey

If you are buying, letting or renting property, you will need to know what defects are apparent, and there almost certainly will be some, and the significance of them are any defects of an urgent nature and if not, when might they become so? What will the cost of repair be? What, in the case of a leasehold might be your liability for dilapidations at the end of the term?

b) Minor Building Works

You may well want to carry out works of alteration or extension to the building to suit your particular needs. You would be best advised to have a proper Specification of Works and possibly drawings prepared on which to obtain realistic and competitive prices, and you may need advice on the selection of a contractor. The works should be supervised, not only to ensure a proper standard of work but also to keep some control of costs. The Building Surveyor can do all this and save you time and ensure that you are charged a fair price for the works.

c) Insurance Assessments and Claims

You will need to know how much your building should be insured for. A Building Surveyor will be able to assess the correct figure as a result of his or her knowledge of all the factors that apply in each particular case so that the premium can be calculated on the correct basis.

d) Dilapidation Claims

Whether landlord or tenant the question of dilapidations may arise at any time but especially at the end of a lease. It is a complicated subject requiring not only knowledge of building practices and costs but also of the relevant legislation and legal procedures.

e) Expert Evidence

Many building disputes are resolved by reference to expert evidence prepared by Building Surveyors and litigants both before and during proceedings often rely on their specialist knowledge. Indeed expensive proceedings can sometimes be avoided if both parties agree to appoint experts.

f) Party Wall Matters

New legislation extends the rules governing Party walls to the whole of the U.K. For many years this has been restricted to certain parts of Greater London and so Building Surveyors based in London have a unique experience in dealing with such matters. If you intend to carry out certain works to or near a party wall, or if your neighbour serves notice on you of his or her intention to carry out certain works, you will need to appoint a surveyor to protect your interests.

g) Planning Applications and Building Regulations.

Some building works may need permission under the Town and Country Planning Acts, Building Regulations or other legislation and a Building Surveyor will be able to advise you on what permissions are necessary, and in many cases prepare and submit the relevant applications in a way that will stand the best chance of success.

h) Approval of Plans

Most leases prohibit the carrying out of alterations without the landlord’s consent. Whether you are the landlord or tenant you should get professional advice from a Building Surveyor.

In any of the above circumstances you should contact our Building Surveying Department for further information and an estimate of costs. We can provide advice on any or all building matters and have access to other specialists such as Architects, Engineers, Quantity Surveyors etc., should this be necessary.