Property Surveys and Party Wall Advice in Clapton

We were approached by a building owner to prepare a schedule of condition ahead of their proposed single-storey rear extension works at their property in Clapton, E5. They had served their own party wall notice on the adjoining owner, who consented on condition that a schedule was prepared by a surveyor to give them peace of mind. One of our assistant surveyors, Amrita Johal, managed the inspection, prepared the report, and handled all related communications.

Amrita arranged the visit promptly and, on the day, met the building owner outside the property to briefly discuss the works before inspection the adjoining owner’s property. She documented the current condition and noted any visible defects, creating a clear record prior to the works commencing.

Following the inspection, the report was professionally completed and issued within a few days. The building owner later left a review, impressed with the “very fast and efficient” service he had received.

Located in Clapton E5, our surveyor, David Breeze, carried out an RICS Level 2 Homebuyer inspection on a two-bedroom purpose-built flat. The property itself was in excellent condition, having been built in 2015.
Outside of the flat, David noted the presence of hogweed in the communal areas, a dangerous plant that can cause skin burns upon contact. After further investigation, David found that treatment for the hogweed was already taking place.

Over a telephone conversation, David addressed the client’s concern about tape over the vents. David reassured the client that it was not an issue to be worried about. He advised the client to request additional documentation, such as the EWS1 form, to confirm the structure of the external wall system. Additionally, he recommended checking for any proposed works in the surrounding area, as well as reviewing the service charge details to understand what the funds are allocated for.

In a review left by the client, he mentioned how “helpful” the service he received was.

We were recently appointed by the adjoining owner on a project in Clapton where notice had been served by the building owner in relation to a side return extension. One of our most experienced party wall surveyors, Matthew Price, took on the appointment and was assisted by Callum Escott.

Notice had been served under section 1 of the Act, indicating a desire to construct the flank wall to the extension up to the boundary line. The adjoining owner was nervous about the project, having previously had neighbours undertake works where relations had soured due to how poorly they were managed.

Matthew advised the building owner that as notice had been served, the neighbours had a right of access to facilitate the construction of the flank wall of the extension. He negotiated the terms of access which included protective screening for windows, doors and grounds along with a time period attached to the access right so that the inconvenience to the adjoining owner was limited.