Party Wall & Property Surveys in Whetstone

One of our senior surveyors, Justin Burns, was recently appointed by the adjoining owner on a party wall matter just off Greenway in Totteridge. Our Assistant Surveyor, Katie Steff, helped with day to day matters on the file. Works involved a single storey rear extension, a loft conversion and the cutting away of a chimney breast from the party wall.

Due to the scope of the works, an extensive schedule of condition was undertaken at the adjoining owner’s property to ensure that any damage caused by the works could be easily identified. The process had been delayed by Covid however, once things got back on track, the various issues were swiftly dealt with and the award finalised.

Safeguards included the prohibition of percussive tools (to prevent the vibration causing damage), temporary sealing of the adjoining owners’ flue and protecting open trenches from rain.

One of our senior colleagues, Justin Burns, was appointed as the named building owner’s surveyor and worked alongside his colleague Katie Steff on a party wall matter relating to a property on one of the quiet residential turnings to the south of Totteridge Lane. Notices were served on both of the adjoining owners and one responded promptly confirming that they would be appointing their own surveyor.

We initially received no response from the second neighbour but, with the help of the building owner, managed to speak with them and answer their questions about the notice, the proposed works and their options. Reassured by the conversation, they were happy to concur in Justin’s appointment as Agreed Surveyor.

Having a separate surveyor appointed on one side slowed the process down a bit but the building owner was still able to commence his works on time once the awards had been finalised and served on all parties.

A loft conversion to a property to the south-east of Whetstone included works falling within the scope of section 2 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 including the temporary exposure of the party wall at high level and the insertion of structural support to the party wall in the form of steelwork.

The building owner, unaware of the above until a couple of weeks prior to their start date, was concerned that the process would delay their start date which would have incurred them significant expense and inconvenience.

He contacted us and, having advised both owners that the most efficient and cost-effective way to put a party wall award in place quickly would be for a local surveyor to act in the capacity of an “Agreed Surveyor”. Matthew Price of Peter Barry was appointed by both owners.
Matthew dealt with matters in his usual efficient manner and the awards was served in time for the works to commence uninterrupted. Both owners endorsed our work with positive reviews online, citing our professionalism and efficiency.

Our surveyor, David Breeze, conducted an RICS Level 2 Homebuyer survey for a client purchasing a flat in Whetstone, N20. As the client was overseas, there were several concerns he had. During a phone conversation with David, the client asked for there to be checks on the glazing and the surrounding area, requesting photos and videos to get a better sense of the condition. During the inspection, David noted that the windows were double-glazed and had minor condensation, particularly in the bedroom. He recommended that the mastic seals be replaced to address the issue. Aside from this, the property was well-maintained. The surrounding area was also in a good state with no known environmental concerns. David included many photos in the report, and sent videos to the client of the property.

The client described the service as “prompt” and “efficient” and praised the communication he received from the team.