Latest blog posts

Where access requires the express consent of an adjoining owner, such as to erect scaffolding and a hoarding as part of a demolition programme, there are no statutory timescales but there are many benefits to an early approach.In some cases, the scheme is simply not viable without access so if there’s an adjoining owner who will not allow it ... Read more >>

One of the most well known and widely used surveying standards are technically named “Red Book” Valuations or RICS valuations.You may be asked to arrange for a Chartered Surveyor to undertake a Red book valuation by your solicitor for a range of purposes - Taxation, Probate, Matrimonial, Shared Ownership, Court Proceedings or even ... Read more >>

What exactly is it?Asbestos is a natural, fibrous mineral that was generally used as a building material in the UK between the 1950s and 1980s. It was mined in the far-east, Africa and South America before the fibres were woven into fabrics or mixed into cement.Asbestos was used because it is strong, sound absorbent and fireproof, thus ... Read more >>

Being legal documents, party wall notices must be ‘served’ and the acceptable methods of service are set out is section 15 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.Service by HandSometimes our clients prefer to hand deliver their party wall notices as it gives them an opportunity to add a personal touch to the legal process.However, the Act ... Read more >>

Back in the middle of 2017, Taylor Wimpey amongst a few others, received blanket bad press for their involvement in the selling of leasehold houses, which included very aggressive ground rents. Headlines such as “£9,000 per year Ground Rent” and “Newlyweds unable to sell home due to legal catch that sees ground rent DOUBLE every decade” ... Read more >>

I have previously written about the option of an adjoining owner applying for an injunction where their neighbour has commenced work covered by the Party Wall Act without serving notice. However, the costs of obtaining an injunction can be significant, may not be recoverable in full and such would only be justified where there is a real danger to ... Read more >>

Imagine having a job from which you cannot be dismissed - that must be the dream of many people. Well, that is exactly the position that appointed party wall surveyors find themselves in. Section 10(2) of the Act confirms that 'All appointments and selections made under this section shall be in writing and shall not be rescinded by either party". ... Read more >>