Surveys of Properties in Hampstead Garden Suburb

Earlier this year, our senior surveyor William Weaver handled party wall matters relating to a pair of semi-detached houses built as part of the original Hampstead Garden Suburb.

Any development in an area like this is a very sensitive issue both for the owners concerned and the wider public. The Architect served the original notices and the adjoining owners appointed William as their surveyor. After some discussion with the owners, during which William explained the workings of the Party Wall Act and his role, it was agreed that he would act as the agreed surveyor.

The works were a loft conversion, small rear extension and removal of chimney breasts internally. Using an agreed surveyor in a relatively minor case such as this is commonplace, it more than halves the costs for the building owner and speeds matters up. The whole process from instruction to service of award took 13 working days for a pre agreed fixed price. Building works commenced on time and have proceeded smoothly and amicably since.

We were approached by a building owner in the East Finchley area wanting to add a single storey side and rear extension to their property. As part of the works, they planned to construct a new wall up to the boundary line but remaining wholly on their own land.

In this scenario, we recommend that the building owner approach their neighbour to have an initial discussion and show them what they intend to construct. This initial informal approach ensures that they do not become aware of the proposals by receiving a notice in the post.

The pitch having been rolled, we formally notified the adjoining owners of the aspects of the work falling within the Party Wall Act. As the neighbours had already been made aware of the planned works and a well-established surveying practice had sent them formal notices, they were more than happy to consent provided that a schedule of condition was prepared before any construction work started.

Katie first met the owners of a 1930’s semi detached property in a quiet turning close to East Finchley Station, when they received a party wall notice in relation to their neighbours’ planned works. They were so  happy with the service they received, they returned to Peter Barry Surveyors when they were preparing to commence with their own loft conversion.

Party wall notices were served on the adjoining property who chose to consent on the basis a schedule of condition was carried out to their property prior to the works commencing. The appointment was arranged for the neighbour’s inspection within a few days and shortly after the Party Wall Award was finalised and emailed to both parties for their records.

In their review they described Katie as ‘efficient, professional and accommodating’.

Our surveyor, Shaun Blake, was instructed to carry out an RICS Level 3 Homebuyer Survey for a converted two-bedroom flat in Hampstead, NW3. In addition to the standard survey, the client also opted for some of our additional services, including a valuation and an estimated cost of significant works. The property was a period property located within a conservation area, which carries particular considerations.

On the morning of the inspection, Shaun spoke with the client to address any last-minute concerns. During the inspection, he identified evidence of a leak, which appeared to be coming from the flat above. He also noted fire safety concerns, including a communal door in poor condition that required replacement. The estimated costings gave the client a clearer understanding of the potential financial implications of the repairs highlighted in the report.

On completion of the report, a follow-up call was arranged with the client to go through the findings in detail and answer any questions, helping them make an informed decision about the purchase.

In a review, the client described the report as “detailed and comprehensive” and praised the communication they received.