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It’s the phrase that party wall surveyors rely on to reassure adjoining owners that they will not incur costs as a result of their neighbours’ works i.e. “In all normal circumstances, the fees of all/any appointed surveyors will be paid by the building owner”. The inquisitive adjoining owner will ask for clarification of what ‘normal ... Read more >>

The process of preparing a Reinstatement Cost Assessment involves a site visit to inspect the property, take measurements and site notes detailing the type and quality of the accommodation, a calculation of the likely reinstatement cost of the property based on the information gathered during the inspection, and the recording of this information ... Read more >>

Leaseholders have the right to extend their leases under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993. Under the 1993 Act leaseholders are entitled to a 90 year lease extension and a reduction of their ground rent to a peppercorn. In return they must pay their freeholder compensation, call a premium. The statutory process ... Read more >>

If badly handled, party wall procedures can add many thousands of pounds to the costs of your building project but there are plenty of things you (and your surveyor) can do to keep costs to a minimum.   Speak to your neighbours before serving notice This isn't always possible, if the property is let or the adjoining freeholder is a ... Read more >>

There are many different elements that will need to be considered in order for the vision of your extension to become a reality and it is apparent that a layperson is often unaware what professional help may be required along the way - there are the obvious ones; Architect, engineer and contractor, and to a lesser extent, the party wall ... Read more >>

As a recent graduate and Assistant Surveyor, a large part of my training was party wall related. As part of that training I spent time assisting the team that deal with new enquiries in sending fee proposals and liaising with owners. I thought it might be helpful to work through an example relating to a rear extension. When preparing a fee ... Read more >>

Leaseholders have the right to extend their leases under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993.  Under the legislation the owner of a leasehold flat has the right to request a new lease which is 90 years longer than their current lease and at a peppercorn ground rent throughout. In order to qualify flat owners need to have ... Read more >>