EXPERT WITNESS/DISPUTES

Within the practice we have General Practice and Building Surveyors recognised within the legal community as experienced and effective expert witnesses on a variety of disputes relating to property matters.

With the introduction of the Woolf Reforms in the late 1990s there has been an emphasis on obtaining specialist expert advise at an early stage in any potential dispute and a move towards appointing single joint experts to save cost and time.

Members of our firm are familiar with these procedures and have acted in numerous disputes on a wide variety of topics. There are many types of dispute which might arise around the ownership and use of buildings. These could include boundary disputes, building disputes, rights to light, dilapidations, landlord & tenant, rights of way, alterations, negligent surveys and other negligent professional advice together with defective works by builders or specialist contractors.

Building Disputes

Being experienced in dealing with extensions, alterations and repairs to buildings of all types we are well placed to advise when disputes arise between employers and building contractors. We can prepare reports on building defects, contractual disputes and other problems that may arise, either directly for you as the employer or on instructions from your solicitor.

Rights to Light

What appears to be a simple matter is actually complex with many misconceptions as to when rights exist and how light is measured for this purpose. We can give advice on rights to light matters for disputes and developments.

Boundary Disputes

Unfortunately boundary disputes are a very common area of difficulty between neighbours. There are again many misconceptions regarding the line of boundary between properties and to avoid potential lengthy and expensive disputes it is often best to get independent professional advice at an early stage.

Valuations

Many disputes relating to property involve the question of value and the effect of some event on the value of the property concerned.

Our valuers are very experienced in this area of practice and are familiar with the principles of the effect on the value of property of factors which are the subject of dispute and often give advice on issues of diminution in value.

We also have experience in undertaking valuations retrospectively in the case of allegedly mistaken advice by other advisers. Both Martin Woodhead FRICS and Lloyd Smale FRICS are listed in the Law Society Directory of Expert Witnesses as “Checked Experts”.