Party Wall Surveyors North London

In urbanised areas it is frequently the case that buildings are constructed next to one another. They may be physically linked, sharing a common wall or partition, or simply abut one another. With thousands of homes being built in terraces or as semi-detached across the country, this is a very regular occurrence. Even if not actually joined, buildings can still be constructed close to each other.

In these situations when building works are planned, the parties on either side have a right to legal protection – and share some obligations as to the way they behave. The Party Wall Act 1966 aims to manage disputes by setting out these requirements that cover building works including structural changes, digging near foundations and so on. The Act does not cover minor works such as electrical installations, putting up brackets or shelving, or replastering. However, it does cover cutting in to support a beam when removing walls, installing a damp proof course, underpinning and – important when considering a domestic extension or conservatory - excavating for new foundations within three metres (or sometime six metres) of a neighbour's property.

A neighbour has the legal responsibility to give written notice of proposed works, though it is generally accepted that an initial conversation is helpful. Written agreement must be given.

Where a neighbour does not agree in writing with any proposals for building work, the act provides for surveyors to be appointed, to ensure that works are undertaken correctly and will not cause damage to the other party. A document called a Party Wall Award is drawn up, noting the existing condition of buildings on the other side of the party wall or structure, the work to be carried out, and who has financial responsibility for the works and any consequential damages that might be incurred.

So, whether you are planning works to (or near) a party wall, or find that your neighbours are considering such work, it is advisable to appoint a professionally qualified building surveyor to act on your behalf at the outset. A professional will be able to save time and money by advising on the correct procedure prior to commencing the work, and on the best methods of construction to use; this latter area can often reduce the inconvenience to neighbours by opting for a less intrusive solution.

Party Walls

B2 Chartered Building Surveyors specialise in Party Wall awards.

The Party Wall Act 1996 is to facilitate building and construction work in crowded environments. It attempts to balance the interests of both the developer and the adjoining building owner and its occupiers. It is designed to regulate the exercise of certain common law rights and makes there exercise subject to conditions.

London B2 Chartered Building Surveyors can receive instruction from the Building Owner (where the works are being done) or the Adjoining owner (next to the works being done), and in some cases if with agreement of both parties can represent both parties.

If you think you or your neighbour might need an award for any works please give us a call to discuss.

Party Walls Products

• Service of notices.
• Preparation of Awards and Schedules of Condition
• Negotiation of Awards

Dilapidations

B2 Surveyors manage landlord and tenant interests in leasehold agreements and property contracts. Acting independently or jointly for the landlord and/or tenant. Flexibility is key, and for each instruction whatever size, our service is always tailored to meet the needs of our client.

Dilapidations Products

• Prepare interim claim for landlord
• Prepare terminal claim for landlord
• Interim defence for tenant
• Terminal defence for tenant
• Negotiate financial settlement for landlord
• Negotiate financial settlement for tenant
• Negotiate scope of works for tenant
• Monitor works for landlord
• Assessment of dilapidation liability for tenant
• Assessment of dilapidation liability for landlord

Building Survey in London

The Building Survey is a detailed investigation and assessment of the construction and condition of a building. The survey generally includes the structure, fabric, finishes and grounds, and will include reference to visible defects and appropriate guidance on repair.

Advice regarding the maintenance forecast for the building is also included for more accurate consideration of the potential liabilities attached to the purchase of the property.

The property's commercial use means that emphasis is placed on suitability for purpose, security, fire precautions, state of repair etc. and it can be incorporated as part of a wider Pre-Acquisition Report or Feasibility Study.

The survey will normally incorporate the building's structure, fabric, finishes, outbuildings and grounds, and includes the surveyor's unbiased, balanced professional opinion in the detail and style required by the client, with reference to visible defects and guidance (as appropriate) on maintenance and remedial measures.

Products

• Informal Walk round
• House Buyers Report
• Building Condition Survey

Defects Analysis

B2 Chartered Building Surveyors in London are experienced in identifying and assessing problems and specifying solution for works associated with defects identified.

Whatever you building's age B2 provide an authoritative building pathology / building defects analysis service.

We have a wealth of experience in the survey repair and construction of all building types. We will establish a cause and report on solutions and likely costs. The nature of an appropriate solution will be discussed and implications of any identified defects will be considered to ensure a properly managed solution to the situation is provided.

The defect may be due to a fault in construction, a failure or materials or a flaw in design. Some defects may require monitoring over a period of time to identify the nature of the defect.

A detailed knowledge of construction methods and materials, typical risks and failures, provide us with the necessary expertise to provide authoritative reports and solutions. Some defects may require monitoring over a period of time to identify the nature of the defect.

Products

• Site Inspection
• Destructive and Non Destructive investigations
• Assessment of Pathology
• Passive Monitoring
• Forensic Analysis
• Full Report

Contract Administration

B2 Chartered Building Surveyors in London specialise in all forms of JCT building contracts providing regular contract administration.

Contract Administeration Products

• Contract Preparation
• Periodic Inspection
• Contract valuation for interim payments
• Management of Contract Variations
• Hand Over
• Preparation of Final Account
• Management of Contract claims

B2 Chartered Building Surveyors Survey, Report & Specify works on buildings

Building Design & Specification in London

London B2 Chartered Building Surveyors provides simple or complex solutions to your project brief. With a wealth of experience our services are tailored to your requirements within house drawings and specification provided.

B2 Design

We have in-house draughtsmen to produce schemes to extend or expand your existing property, refurbish your property, convert your property or improve your property.

Building Someone else's design

B2 provide specification and contract administration to fulfil on designs by others. In this process we will analyse the design and ensure good construction practice and can work closely with the design team if alterations or adjustment of the provided design is required.

Design and Specification Products

• Planning Application
• Building Regulation Applications
• Drawings
• Specifications
• Contract Tenders
• Contract Ad

B2 Chartered Building Surveyors Survey, Report & Specify works on buildings