a8960845

When to Contact a Trusted Insurance Claims Adjuster

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:16:40 GMT

Property damage can be stressful, disruptive and often confusing to navigate, particularly when an insurance claim is involved. Whether your property has been affected by fire, flooding or structural damage, knowing when to contact a professional can make a significant difference to the outcome of your claim.

At Simon Levy Associates, our RICS-regulated chartered building surveyors regularly assist property owners with complex construction and property matters, including support during the building insurance claim process.

Understanding the Insurance Claim Process

When property damage occurs, insurers typically appoint their own adjuster to assess the situation and determine the value of the claim. While this is a standard part of the process, it is important to remember that the insurer’s representative is acting on behalf of the insurance company.

An independent insurance claims adjuster or chartered building surveyor can provide impartial advice and ensure that the damage to your property is properly documented and assessed. This can be particularly important when structural issues, building defects or extensive repairs are involved.

Simon Levy Associates provides expert property advice and detailed building assessments that help clients fully understand the condition of their property following damage.

After Major Property Damage

One of the most important times to seek professional assistance is immediately after a significant incident such as a fire, flood or storm damage. These events can affect the structural integrity of a building and may also reveal hidden problems that are not immediately obvious.

A chartered building surveyor can carry out a detailed inspection of the property and identify issues such as structural weaknesses, water damage, timber decay or other underlying problems. This level of expertise is particularly valuable when preparing evidence for a building insurance claim , as accurate documentation can support the claim and help ensure repairs are carried out correctly.

At Simon Levy Associates, we have extensive experience investigating building defects and advising on appropriate repair solutions.

When Repair Work Is Disputed

Another common reason to contact an insurance claims adjuster or building surveyor is when there is disagreement over the scope or quality of repair work.

Unfortunately, situations can arise where insurance contractors do not fully restore a property to its previous condition. As specialists in construction dispute consultancy and expert witness services, Simon Levy Associates can assess the work undertaken and provide professional guidance on whether the repairs meet the required standards.

When Expert Guidance Is Needed

Insurance claims involving property damage can become complex, particularly when structural issues or neighbouring properties are involved. Independent guidance from experienced chartered surveyors can help you understand your rights and ensure that the claim process is handled professionally.

With expertise in building defect diagnosis, construction disputes and insurance-related property matters, Simon Levy Associates provides reliable technical advice.

Contact Simon Levy Associates

If your property has been damaged and you are preparing a building insurance claim, professional advice can help protect your investment and avoid costly mistakes.

Contact us at Simon Levy Associates today to speak with experienced chartered building surveyors who can assist with property assessments, insurance-related disputes and expert guidance throughout the claims process.

Insurance Claims Adjuster Support: Your Next Steps

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:06:12 GMT

Dealing with property damage can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Whether you’ve experienced subsidence, fire, or flooding, the process of filing a property damage claim can seem like an uphill battle. Thankfully, with the right support, such as the expertise of an insurance claims adjuster and a chartered surveyor, you can navigate this process more smoothly. This guide explains how insurance claims adjusters, insurance loss adjusters, and surveyors work together, and how you can protect your interests during a building insurance claim.

What is an Insurance Claims Adjuster?

An insurance claims adjuster is a professional hired by an insurance company to assess the damage to your property and determine the compensation you’re entitled to. Their role is to investigate the claim, evaluate the damage, and make recommendations about how much the insurer should pay.

There are key differences between an insurance claims adjuster and an insurance loss adjuster. While the claims adjuster is employed by the insurer, an insurance loss adjuster is typically an independent professional hired by the policyholder to help resolve disputes and ensure fair compensation. This is crucial when complex claims arise, like those involving subsidence, fire or flood damage, where a second opinion can help protect the claimant’s interests.

The Role of a Chartered Surveyor in Property Damage Claims

While the insurance adjuster evaluates the damage from an insurer’s perspective, a chartered surveyor brings an independent viewpoint. Chartered surveyors are experts in building assessments, and their role in the claims process is invaluable. They provide a detailed analysis of the damage to your property, offering accurate cost estimates for repairs and ensuring that nothing is overlooked.

Here’s how a chartered surveyor can assist you:

● Independent Assessment - A surveyor can give an impartial evaluation of the damage, which is crucial when an insurance claims adjuster’s assessment may fall short.

● Expert Recommendations - They will offer expert advice on how best to restore the property and ensure it meets safety and building regulations.

● Building Cost Estimates - A surveyor will provide a detailed breakdown of the costs involved in repairing or rebuilding, ensuring the insurer has a full understanding of the financial requirements.

Hiring a chartered surveyor early in the process ensures you get a fair and accurate damage assessment. They can support you by scrutinising the adjuster’s findings and advocating on your behalf to ensure that your claim covers all necessary repairs.

How Insurance Claims Adjusters and Surveyors Work Together

One of the most important aspects of the property damage claims process is the collaboration between insurance claims adjusters and chartered surveyors. These professionals work hand in hand to ensure that the claims process is thorough, transparent, and fair.

Key Steps in the Claims Process:

Damage Assessment - The insurance claims adjuster visits the property to assess the damage. At the same time, a chartered surveyor might be called upon to conduct a detailed evaluation of the structure and the extent of the damage.

Collaborative Reporting - The adjuster relies on the surveyor’s report to help determine the extent of the damage and estimate repair costs. This collaboration ensures that all aspects of the damage are accounted for, from visible issues to more hidden structural concerns.

Dispute Resolution - If there is a dispute over the claims assessment, a surveyor can act as an expert witness, helping to resolve disagreements by providing an independent, professional report that can be used to challenge or support the insurance claims adjuster’s findings.

Benefits of Having Both Professionals

Together, these professionals create a comprehensive and fair approach to your claim, increasing your chances of receiving the full compensation you deserve. They can offer you benefits such as:

● Accuracy - With both a surveyor and an adjuster, you can ensure that no part of your claim is missed, whether it's structural damage or loss of contents.

● Fair Compensation - The surveyor’s independent input ensures that the damage is accurately assessed, while the adjuster helps ensure that the claim is processed efficiently.

● Avoiding Delays - When surveyors and adjusters work together from the start, the claim process is smoother and quicker, reducing the likelihood of delays and extended negotiations.

Key Steps for Homeowners and Property Managers to Protect Their Interests

When it comes to protecting your interests during a property damage claim, there are several important steps you should take. These steps ensure that you don’t miss out on compensation and that your property is accurately assessed.

Document the Damage Thoroughly

Proper documentation is critical to a successful claim. It’s essential to capture the damage immediately and keep a detailed record of all affected areas.

● Take Photographs: Capture clear images of the damage from multiple angles.

● Create a Written Record: Note any relevant details about the damage, including dates and the circumstances leading to it.

● Keep Receipts and Bills: For any immediate repairs or emergency services, retain all receipts for insurance purposes.

Get Professional Help Early

While you might be eager to file a claim immediately, it’s important to get the help of a chartered surveyor and insurance loss adjuster early on. Involving professionals from the start ensures that the damage is accurately assessed, preventing any missed issues from being overlooked later on.

● Hire a Surveyor: Bring in a chartered surveyor to assess the damage before you submit the claim. Their independent assessment helps you ensure that all damages are reported accurately.

● Engage an Insurance Loss Adjuster: For more complex claims, especially those involving extensive damage, an insurance loss adjuster like Simon Levy can assist you with navigating the process and negotiating on your behalf.

Understand Your Insurance Policy

Take the time to review your building insurance claim policy to understand your coverage. If you’re unsure about the terms of your policy, reach out to your insurance provider for clarification or seek professional guidance to ensure you don’t miss out on necessary coverage.

● Know Your Coverage Limits: Understand the maximum payout your insurer will provide for various types of damage.

● Be Aware of Exclusions: Certain types of damage, such as wear and tear or maintenance-related issues, may not be covered under your policy.

Review the Adjuster’s Report Carefully

Once the insurance claims adjuster provides their assessment, it’s important to review their findings thoroughly. If the assessment seems incomplete or incorrect, don’t hesitate to challenge it.

Ask for Clarification: If the findings are unclear or you believe they are inaccurate, ask the adjuster for further details.

Get a Second Opinion: If the disagreement persists, consult a chartered surveyor or insurance loss adjuster to provide an independent opinion and support your case.

Simon Levy

Navigating a property damage claim can be a daunting process, but with the support of an insurance claims adjuster and a chartered surveyor, you can ensure that your interests are protected and that you receive a fair outcome. By documenting the damage, understanding your insurance policy, and involving professionals early on, you can make the claims process smoother and more transparent.

If you’re facing a building insurance claim or other property damage issues, Simon Levy, a highly experienced insurance loss adjuster, can provide the expert support you need to give you a fair and accurate claims process. Visit Simon Levy’s website today for more information or to schedule a consultation, get in touch with us.

Practical Property Maintenance Tips to Protect Your Investment

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:04:00 GMT

At Simon Levy Associates , we regularly see how proactive property maintenance can save owners significant time, stress, and expense. Whether you own a residential or commercial property, ongoing care is essential to preserving value and preventing avoidable defects. Drawing on our experience as chartered building surveyors, we’ve outlined some practical maintenance tips to help protect your investment.

Carry Out Regular Inspections

We always recommend regular inspections of your property, both internally and externally. Simple checks can highlight early warning signs such as cracked masonry, loose roof tiles, blocked gutters, or signs of damp. Identifying issues allows them to be addressed before they become more serious and costly problems.

Take Damp and Ventilation Seriously

Damp is one of the most common issues we encounter during building surveys . It can result from poor ventilation, defective rainwater goods, leaking pipework, or deterioration of building fabric. Ensuring adequate ventilation in kitchens and bathrooms, keeping air bricks clear, and addressing leaks promptly can significantly reduce the risk. Where damp persists, we advise professional investigation to diagnose the underlying cause rather than relying on surface treatments.

Maintain Roofs and Rainwater Systems

Roofs and rainwater goods play a critical role in protecting the building structure. During our inspections, we often find rainwater ingress caused by slipped tiles, failed flashing, or blocked gutters. Annual inspections, particularly after severe weather, can help prevent water penetration, timber decay, and internal damage.

Monitor Cracks and Structural Movement

Not all cracks indicate serious structural problems, but some can be a sign of movement or subsidence. We recommend monitoring cracks over time and keeping a simple record of their size and location. If cracks widen or new ones appear, a professional assessment can determine whether further investigation is required.

Plan Maintenance Rather Than Reacting to Problems

A planned maintenance strategy is far more cost-effective than reactive repairs. We encourage property owners to schedule routine maintenance for key elements such as heating systems, external decorations, drainage, and joinery. This approach extends the life of building components and helps avoid unexpected failures.

Keep Clear Records

Maintaining accurate records of inspections, repairs, servicing, and warranties is essential. From our experience, good documentation supports insurance claims , demonstrates responsible ownership, and proves invaluable when selling or leasing a property.

Seek Professional Advice When Needed

While some maintenance tasks can be managed by property owners, more complex issues require professional input. At Simon Levy Associates, we provide independent advice on building defects, maintenance planning , and long-term property care. Our surveys help clients prioritise repairs, manage risk, and protect their investment with confidence.

Get Expert Advice to Protect Your Property

If you want clarity on your property’s condition or need support planning maintenance works, professional advice can make all the difference. At Simon Levy Associates, we provide independent, expert guidance tailored to your building and your objectives.

Whether you require a building survey, defect diagnosis, or a long-term maintenance strategy, our chartered surveyors are here to help you protect your investment with confidence.

Contact Simon Levy Associates today to discuss your property and find out how our surveying expertise can support your next steps.

What Happens After a Fire or Flood in Your Property?

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:02:34 GMT

Experiencing a fire or flood in your home or commercial property can be overwhelming. Beyond the immediate disruption, property owners are often unsure what steps to take next, who is responsible for repairs and how to deal with insurers.

At Simon Levy Associates, we regularly support clients across Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London following fire and flood incidents, providing clear guidance and independent professional advice during what can be a stressful time.

Making the Property Safe

Once the emergency services have attended and the immediate risk has passed, the first priority is ensuring the property is safe and secure. Fire and flood events can compromise structural elements, electrical systems and internal finishes. A professional inspection helps identify whether the building is safe to occupy and what temporary measures may be required to prevent further deterioration. Early involvement can help prevent hidden damage from being overlooked.

Understanding the Insurance Process

After notifying your insurer, a building insurance claim is usually opened to assess the extent of damage and determine the scope of reinstatement works. Insurers typically appoint an insurance loss adjuster to represent their interests and investigate the claim. While loss adjusters play an important role, their remit is often focused on policy terms and cost control. Independent advice ensures that all damage is properly identified and that the proposed repairs are appropriate for restoring the property to its pre-loss condition.

Assessing the Full Extent of Damage

Fire, smoke, water and contamination can cause damage that is not immediately visible. Materials such as timber, plaster and insulation may be affected long after the incident. A thorough inspection by experienced surveyors helps establish the true extent of damage and forms a robust basis for a property damage claim. This technical assessment is particularly valuable where there is disagreement over repair methods, timescales or costs.

Managing Repairs and Reinstatement

Once the scope of work has been agreed, reinstatement can begin. Insurers may propose their own contractors, but repairs must be completed to an appropriate standard and in line with building regulations. Independent oversight provides reassurance that workmanship, materials and sequencing are correct. Simon Levy Associates regularly assists clients by reviewing specifications, monitoring works and ensuring that repairs genuinely reinstate the property rather than providing a basic or compromised solution.

Avoiding Disputes and Delays

Delays and disagreements can arise if damage is underestimated or repairs are poorly managed. Independent professional input helps maintain momentum and reduces the likelihood of disputes. Clear reporting and communication can also be invaluable should the matter escalate or require formal resolution.

How Simon Levy Associates Can Help

With over 30 years of experience, Simon Levy Associates provides trusted support following fire and flood damage. Our chartered building surveyors offer impartial advice on inspections, insurance claims and reinstatement works across Borehamwood, Watford, Greater London and the South East. We act in our clients’ best interests, ensuring clarity, fairness and technical accuracy throughout the process.

If your property has been affected by fire or flood and you need expert support with a building insurance claim or property damage claim, contact us at Simon Levy Associates today. Our experienced team is here to guide you through the process and help protect your property and investment.

Common FAQs About Construction Dispute Resolutions

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 12:01:09 GMT

Construction projects do not always go to plan. Whether the issue involves poor workmanship, delays, cost overruns or disagreements over contract terms, disputes can quickly become stressful and expensive if not handled correctly.

At Simon Levy Associates, we are frequently asked similar questions by property owners, landlords and developers seeking clear guidance on construction dispute resolution. Below, we address some of the most common queries and explain how professional support can make a real difference.

What Is Construction Dispute Resolution?

Construction dispute resolution refers to the methods used to resolve disagreements arising from building and construction projects. These disputes may involve homeowners and contractors, landlords and tenants, or multiple professional parties working on a development.

Resolution can take many forms, ranging from early-stage negotiation and expert determination to formal mediation, adjudication or litigation. Engaging experienced construction consultants at an early stage often helps to clarify technical issues, reduce conflict and avoid unnecessary escalation.

When Should I Seek Professional Advice?

Many people wait until a dispute has become serious before seeking help, but early advice is often the most effective approach. If you are experiencing delays, defective work, payment disagreements or uncertainty over contractual obligations, obtaining independent advice can protect your position.

As chartered building surveyors regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, Simon Levy Associates provides impartial assessments that are frequently relied upon by construction dispute solicitors as disputes progress.

How Can a Chartered Building Surveyor Help?

A chartered building surveyor plays a key role in construction dispute resolution by providing objective technical analysis. This may include inspecting defective works, reviewing contracts, assessing variations or valuing incomplete or disputed works. Our reports are prepared with clarity and precision, helping all parties understand the technical facts of the case. In many situations, clear expert evidence enables disputes to be resolved without formal legal proceedings.

Do All Construction Disputes End Up in Court?

No, most construction disputes are resolved long before court action becomes necessary. Alternative dispute resolution methods are widely encouraged within the construction industry, as they are often faster and more cost-effective. Construction consultants frequently work alongside construction dispute solicitors to support negotiation, mediation or adjudication, providing the technical expertise required to reach a fair outcome while minimising disruption and expense.

Why Choose Simon Levy Associates?

With over 30 years of experience across residential and commercial sectors, Simon Levy Associates is trusted for delivering clear, professional and independent advice. Based in Borehamwood and operating throughout Watford, Greater London and the South East, we regularly assist clients with complex construction disputes, expert witness services and project-related disagreements. Our focus is always on protecting your interests while working towards a practical and proportionate resolution.

Speak to Our Construction Dispute Specialists

If you are facing a building-related disagreement or need reliable guidance on construction dispute resolution, our team is here to help. Contact us at Simon Levy Associates today to discuss your situation with experienced construction consultants who understand both the technical and practical realities of construction disputes.

What Is a Party Wall? Key Building Terms You Should Know

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 11:58:59 GMT

Owning or improving a property often comes with unfamiliar language that can feel confusing or overwhelming. From planning building works to dealing with defects or neighbourly issues, understanding key construction and property terms can help homeowners make informed decisions. At Simon Levy Associates, we regularly support clients across Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London by explaining technical matters clearly and providing professional guidance at every stage.

What Is a Party Wall?

One of the most common terms homeowners encounter is a party wall. This usually refers to a wall shared by two properties, such as between terraced or semi-detached houses, although it can also include floors and ceilings in flats or boundary walls. Understanding what a party wall is is important because certain building works trigger legal procedures that must be followed to protect both you and your neighbour.

What Does a Building Survey Involve?

A building survey is a detailed inspection of a property’s condition carried out by qualified building surveyors. It assesses the structure, fabric and visible elements of a building, identifying defects, maintenance issues and potential risks. Homeowners often commission surveys when buying older properties or planning significant works, as they provide clarity on condition and future repair costs.

What Are Building Defects?

Building defects refer to faults or failures in construction that affect a property’s performance, safety or appearance. These may include cracking, damp, timber decay or poor workmanship. Early identification is key, as unresolved defects can worsen over time and become more costly to repair. Independent advice from experienced surveyors helps homeowners understand the cause of defects and the most appropriate remedial options.

What Are Dilapidations?

Dilapidations are issues relating to disrepair or failure to maintain a property, most commonly arising in landlord and tenant situations. While often associated with commercial premises, homeowners who rent out property may also encounter this term. Professional assessment ensures that responsibilities are clearly defined and disputes are minimised.

Why Professional Advice Matters

Property-related decisions often involve technical, legal and financial considerations. Engaging chartered professionals ensures that advice is impartial, accurate and aligned with industry standards. Simon Levy Associates is regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, giving homeowners confidence that all advice is delivered with integrity, professionalism and technical expertise.

How Simon Levy Associates Supports Homeowners

With over 30 years of experience, Simon Levy Associates provides clear, practical advice tailored to homeowners’ needs. From party wall matters and building surveys to defect diagnosis and dispute support , our team works across Borehamwood, Watford, Greater London and the South East. We pride ourselves on clear communication and a proactive approach that helps clients move forward with confidence.

Speak to Our Chartered Building Surveyors

If you are unsure about building terminology or need professional guidance on your property, our team is here to help. Contact us at Simon Levy Associates today to speak with trusted building surveyors who can explain your options clearly and provide expert support every step of the way.

How a Chartered Surveyor Can Save You Money on Property

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 09:45:43 GMT

When it comes to buying, selling, or maintaining property, most people want to make sure they're making the right financial decisions. One of the best ways to do this is by hiring a chartered surveyor. At Simon Levy Associates , our qualified professionals provide expert advice and insight that can help you save money in the long run. Here's how working with a chartered surveyor can provide value and prevent costly mistakes.

Identifying Hidden Issues Early

One of the key ways a chartered surveyor can save you money is by identifying hidden problems in a property before you commit to buying or selling. Even the most well-maintained properties can have underlying issues that are not immediately visible to the untrained eye. A chartered surveyor can spot problems such as structural defects, damp issues, or outdated plumbing and electrical systems.

By identifying these issues early, a surveyor helps you avoid the unexpected costs of repairing these problems after purchase. If you’re a buyer, knowing about potential defects gives you the leverage to negotiate a lower purchase price or request that repairs be made before closing the deal. For sellers, having a pre-sale survey can help you understand any issues that may deter potential buyers, allowing you to address them before listing the property.

Preventing Costly Legal Disputes

Property disputes, particularly when it comes to boundaries, planning permissions, or party walls, can be time-consuming and expensive to resolve. Chartered surveyors are experts in property law and can help you navigate complex issues. For example, if you're involved in a party wall dispute or need advice on boundary lines, a surveyor can provide expert guidance to ensure that you’re compliant with the law and avoid costly legal fees.

Surveyors are also skilled at managing construction disputes, particularly when it comes to contract administration and monitoring progress. If there are delays or discrepancies in the construction process, a surveyor can intervene early to address the issues, preventing them from escalating into more expensive problems later.

Offering Expert Valuations

Another way a chartered surveyor can save you money is through their expert valuation services . If you're buying or selling property, it’s essential to know the true value of the property in question. Chartered surveyors can provide accurate and impartial valuations based on their extensive knowledge of local property markets, ensuring that you’re not overpaying for a property or underpricing when selling.

An accurate property valuation is especially important if you're looking to refinance or apply for a mortgage. Lenders often require a surveyor’s valuation to determine the loan-to-value ratio, ensuring you get a fair deal.

Cost-Effective Maintenance Advice

Property maintenance is an ongoing expense that can quickly add up, particularly if issues are left unaddressed. Chartered surveyors can provide advice on preventative maintenance, helping you to avoid costly repairs by taking a proactive approach. Regular property inspections and surveys can identify potential problems before they become major, expensive issues.

For landlords, having a surveyor’s advice on maintaining rental properties ensures that your buildings are in good condition and comply with health and safety regulations, preventing fines and the costs associated with neglecting property upkeep.

Save Money with Professional Surveying Services

Hiring a chartered surveyor can save you money by identifying hidden issues, preventing costly legal disputes, providing accurate valuations, and offering expert maintenance advice. Whether you’re a buyer, seller, landlord, or developer, the guidance of a chartered surveyor is an invaluable investment that can protect your financial interests and ensure your property decisions are sound.

If you’re considering purchasing a property or need expert advice on any property matter, contact Simon Levy Associates today . Our team of experienced chartered surveyors can provide comprehensive property assessments to help you make informed, cost-effective decisions.

What’s Involved in a Full Building Survey? A Guide

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 09:44:10 GMT

When purchasing a property, whether residential or commercial, it’s essential to understand its true condition. A full building survey provides a comprehensive assessment of a property’s structure, condition, and any potential issues that may not be immediately visible. This guide will walk you through the key aspects of a full building survey and why it’s a wise investment for anyone considering buying a property.

What is a Full Building Survey?

A full building survey , also known as a structural survey, is a thorough inspection of a property’s condition. It goes beyond the basic checks provided in a homebuyer’s report or mortgage valuation and provides an in-depth analysis of both the visible and hidden aspects of a building. The survey assesses the structural integrity of the property, identifying any defects, damage, or potential future problems.

Typically, a full building survey is recommended for older properties, properties that have been altered, or those that appear to have issues that need further investigation. However, it can be valuable for any property purchase to ensure you’re fully aware of its condition before committing.

Key Areas Covered in a Full Building Survey

A full building survey involves a detailed inspection of a variety of elements, including but not limited to:

1. Structural Integrity

The survey will examine the main structural elements of the property, including the foundation, roof, walls, and floors. This is critical in identifying issues such as subsidence, damp, or structural movement that could affect the property’s stability and safety.

2. Roofing and Gutters

A surveyor will inspect the roof, chimneys, and gutters for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or damage. Roof repairs can be expensive, so knowing the condition of the roof before purchasing a property is essential for avoiding unexpected costs.

3. Damp and Timber Defects

Damp can cause significant damage to a property, leading to mould growth, structural damage, and health concerns. A full building survey will check for signs of rising damp, penetrating damp, or condensation, as well as timber defects such as woodworm or rot.

4. Plumbing and Electrical Systems

The surveyor will inspect the plumbing and electrical systems to ensure they are functioning properly and meet current regulations. This can help identify costly repairs or the need for upgrades to bring the systems up to code.

5. Internal and External Features

From windows and doors to walls and floors, a full building survey will cover both the internal and external features of the property. It will assess the condition of joinery, plastering, windows, and other fittings to identify any required repairs or improvements.

Benefits of a Full Building Survey

A full building survey provides invaluable peace of mind for property buyers. By thoroughly investigating the property’s condition, it can help you:

Identify hidden problems: Issues such as structural defects, damp, or faulty plumbing may not be immediately apparent but can cause long-term damage. A full building survey will uncover these hidden problems.
Negotiate the price: If the survey reveals defects or issues, you may be able to negotiate a reduction in the property price or request that repairs be made before completing the purchase.
Plan for future repairs: Understanding the condition of the property helps you budget for necessary repairs and maintenance, giving you a clear idea of future costs.

When Should You Commission a Full Building Survey?

If you’re buying a property that is over 20 years old, has obvious signs of damage, or has been extensively renovated, a full building survey is highly recommended. It’s also a good idea if you’re purchasing a commercial property or any property that might require significant investment.

Make Informed Property Decisions

A full building survey is an essential step for any property purchase. It provides a detailed analysis of the property’s condition and helps you avoid unexpected repair costs. Whether you're buying a new home or a commercial property, having a professional surveyor assess the property before you commit is a wise investment.

At Simon Levy Associates , our team of qualified chartered surveyors can provide a comprehensive building survey to ensure you make an informed decision. Get in touch today to arrange your survey and avoid costly surprises down the road.

A Complete Guide to Level 3 Building Surveys for Your Home

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 09:42:41 GMT

When purchasing a home, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement of securing a new property. However, it’s crucial to take a step back and ensure you’re fully aware of the property’s condition before making such a significant investment. One of the most effective ways to protect your investment is by commissioning a Level 3 Building Survey, also known as a Full Structural Survey. This comprehensive survey is particularly useful for older properties or those requiring significant renovations. In this guide, we’ll walk you through why a Level 3 Building Survey is necessary, what the process entails, and how to interpret the findings, with a particular focus on how our services at Simon Levy Associates can help.

What Is a Level 3 Building Survey?

A Level 3 Building Survey is the most comprehensive form of property inspection available and is ideal for those purchasing older homes, homes in need of major repairs, or unusual properties that may not conform to typical building standards. This survey goes beyond the basic inspection of a property to provide a detailed analysis of its structure, condition, and any defects that could potentially lead to costly repairs in the future.

The Level 3 survey covers a wide range of potential issues, from structural defects to hidden problems such as damp, timber decay, or subsidence. It’s designed to provide peace of mind, ensuring that you know exactly what you’re buying and whether the asking price reflects the property’s true value. At Simon Levy Associates, we use our extensive experience and expertise to provide clients with thorough, detailed reports that are easy to understand and guide future decisions.

Why Do You Need a Level 3 Building Survey?

A Level 3 Building Survey is necessary for several reasons. While mortgage lenders often carry out a basic valuation survey, these are not as detailed and typically do not identify underlying issues that could affect the property’s long-term stability. A comprehensive survey ensures that you are aware of any defects or issues that could arise after purchase, saving you from unexpected repair costs and potential legal issues.

Here are some key reasons to consider a Level 3 Building Survey:

Identification of Hidden Defects: Many defects, such as damp, timber rot, and structural weaknesses, are not visible during a standard viewing. A Level 3 Building Survey is designed to uncover these issues, which may not be apparent to the untrained eye.
Negotiation Power: If significant defects are found, you can use the survey findings to negotiate a lower price or request that the seller makes repairs before finalising the sale. This can save you thousands of pounds in unexpected costs.
Peace of Mind: Purchasing a property is one of the most significant financial decisions you'll ever make. Knowing that the property is structurally sound and free of hidden defects provides reassurance and reduces the stress of the buying process.

Dilapidation Claims: A Quick Guide for Tenants and Landlords

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 13:05:21 GMT

Whether you’re a tenant nearing the end of a lease or a landlord preparing to retake possession of a property, understanding dilapidation claims is essential. A proper dilapidation report, carried out by qualified professionals such as Simon Levy Associates, can help prevent expensive disputes and ensure a smooth lease exit. In this guide, discover the key information that both landlords and tenants should know about dilapidations.

What are Dilapidations?

In commercial property contexts, ‘dilapidations’ refers to disrepair, damage, or deterioration that a tenant may be responsible for under the lease agreement. As the lease ends, a dilapidation claim can be made to recover the cost of restoring the premises to the agreed standard, including repairs, redecoration, or restoring damaged areas.

A dilapidation claim may also cover a landlord’s loss, such as rent lost if major repairs delay re‑letting the premises.

The Role of a Dilapidation Report & Property Survey

A dilapidation report, or dilapidation survey , is key to objectively documenting the property's condition. When conducted by an independent and accredited surveying team like Simon Levy Associates, it provides a comprehensive record of defects or breaches of lease obligations.

This report typically includes a full description of the property, photographs showing the current condition, and a schedule of condition or schedule of dilapidations, which itemises any defects or issues requiring repair or maintenance.

A professional survey offers a neutral, factual baseline, which is essential for negotiating settlements or defending against unfair claims.

Why Tenants and Landlords Should Care

For tenants, a dilapidation survey clarifies exactly what needs to be addressed and what doesn’t. By using an impartial firm, tenants can challenge excessive or unwarranted claims, such as requests to pay for pre‑existing wear or changes made before their tenancy began.

For landlords, commissioning a dilapidation report can protect the property’s value. It provides clear evidence of any deterioration during the lease period, offering a basis for a fair claim.

For both parties, this formal survey process reduces the risk of drawn‑out disputes, saving time, money, and stress when the lease ends.

How the Process Usually Works

At the start of a lease, both parties may agree on a Schedule of Condition to record the property’s state before occupation. As the lease nears its end, a dilapidations survey is conducted. The surveyor reviews the property against its original condition (or the lease terms), documenting any disrepair, damage, or unauthorised alterations.

A full dilapidation report is then produced, detailing defects and recommending remedial works, often with cost estimates. This forms the basis for negotiating a settlement, either by the tenant completing the work or compensating the landlord.

Full Support from Simon Levy Associates

A dilapidation report and thorough property survey are vital tools in any commercial lease arrangement, whether you're a tenant or a landlord. Acting as impartial evidence, they ensure clarity on the property’s condition, help prevent unfair claims, and provide a solid foundation for settlement negotiations.

Contact us at Simon Levy Associates today to discuss how a detailed dilapidation survey can protect your interests and lead to a fair lease exit.

Construction Expert Witness Services: What You Need to Know

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 16:23:06 GMT

Construction disputes can be complex, costly, and time-consuming, particularly for commercial property managers and landlords. Whether it involves claims of poor workmanship, delays, or defective materials, resolving these disputes often requires detailed technical insight. This is where construction expert witness services become invaluable.

In this guide, we’ll explore what construction expert witnesses do, the types of evidence they provide, when to engage one, and how Simon Levy Associates can help you navigate construction disputes efficiently.

What Are Construction Expert Witnesses?

A construction expert witness is typically a qualified surveyor or construction professional who provides independent, objective advice and testimony in disputes related to building projects. Their role is to explain technical issues clearly and concisely to courts, tribunals, or arbitration panels.

Unlike typical consultants, an expert witness is not acting for either party’s interests but is bound by professional duties to provide unbiased, factual evidence. This is crucial in legal contexts, as courts rely on expert testimony to make informed decisions on matters that require specialised knowledge.

When Do You Need an Expert Witness in Building Construction?

Engaging an expert witness in building is particularly useful in situations such as:

Construction Defects and Poor Workmanship: When defects or substandard work are discovered, an expert can assess the quality , determine the cause, and quantify the financial impact.
Delay Claims: In cases where project timelines are disputed, an expert can evaluate schedules, highlight deviations, and attribute responsibility for delays.
Contract Disputes: Ambiguities in construction contracts often arise. Expert witnesses can interpret technical clauses and assess compliance.
Insurance Claims: When assessing property damage or loss related to construction defects, expert input can clarify liability and repair costs.
Health & Safety Compliance: Experts may provide evidence on whether building work met legal safety standards and industry best practices.

For commercial property managers and landlords, engaging an expert early can prevent disputes from escalating and help protect financial interests.

The Role of a Construction Claims Consultant

A construction claims consultant often works alongside an expert witness, helping clients gather, analyse, and present the factual evidence needed for dispute resolution. They review project documentation and contracts to identify potential issues, assess variations, delays, and defects, and calculate the financial impact of any claims.

Beyond this technical analysis, they also provide strategic advice on negotiation approaches or alternative dispute resolution methods. While the expert witness focuses on interpreting technical issues for legal proceedings, the construction claims consultant ensures that all documentation and analysis are meticulously organised, creating a coherent and persuasive foundation for the case.

Types of Evidence Provided by Expert Witnesses

A construction expert witness produces several types of evidence to support disputes.

Technical Reports

These are detailed assessments of building work highlighting defects, non-compliance with standards, and recommendations for remedial action.

Financial Quantification

Experts can estimate repair costs, losses due to delays, or cost overruns, providing credible figures for dispute resolution.

Schedule Analysis

They may analyse project timelines, identify critical path delays, and assign responsibility for any deviations.

Visual Documentation

Photographs, diagrams, and schematics can illustrate defects or structural issues clearly for non-technical audiences.

Witness Statements

In formal proceedings, experts provide statements summarising their findings and conclusions.

Court Testimony

Ultimately, an expert may be required to present evidence in court or arbitration, explaining technical matters in plain language.

This combination of technical analysis, financial assessment, and clear communication makes the expert witness a key asset in any construction dispute.

Benefits of Engaging Expert Witness Building Construction Services

For landlords and property managers, the benefits of engaging expert witness building construction services are significant:

Objective Insight: Experts provide an independent assessment, reducing bias in disputes.
Clarity in Complex Cases: Technical matters, often confusing to non-specialists, are explained clearly for judges, arbitrators, or mediators.
Financial Protection: Accurate assessment of repair costs or project losses can prevent overpayment or financial exposure.
Early Dispute Resolution: Early involvement of an expert can clarify facts and support settlement discussions before litigation.
Credibility in Court: Expert testimony carries weight in legal proceedings, helping to strengthen your position.

These benefits make hiring an expert witness a strategic decision, particularly for commercial properties where financial stakes are high.

When dealing with construction disputes, working with experienced experts can make a significant difference. This is where Simon Levy Associates can provide practical support and guidance.

How Simon Levy Associates Can Help

At Simon Levy Associates, our focus is on delivering clear, reliable, and practical support to clients facing construction disputes. With deep technical expertise and a commitment to professionalism, our team provides expert witness and consultancy services that help resolve issues efficiently and fairly.

Whether through early dispute assessments, detailed technical reports, or expert testimony, we ensure that every case is approached with precision, objectivity, and integrity. Our combination of industry knowledge and clear communication enables clients, solicitors, and decision-makers to reach well-informed, commercially sound outcomes.

With a proven track record in managing complex construction disputes, we are trusted for our independence, clarity, and results-driven approach. If you require expert guidance or representation in a construction-related matter, contact our team in confidence to discuss how we can assist you in achieving a fair and effective resolution.

How Do I Submit a Planning Appeal?

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 08:43:03 GMT

Securing planning permission is a vital step for many property owners and developers. Whether you’re extending a home, building a new property, or making alterations to land, approval from your local planning authority (LPA) is usually required. But what happens when your application is refused, or conditions are imposed that you believe are unreasonable?

This is where the planning permission appeal process comes in. Knowing how to navigate it can make the difference between a failed project and a successful outcome. In this article, we’ll provide clear planning permission guidance, and property advice, covering what planning permission appeal is, why you might submit one, and how to approach the process with confidence, often with the support of chartered surveyors or other property professionals.

What Is a Planning Permission Appeal?

A planning permission appeal is a formal request to have a decision made by your local planning authority reviewed by the Planning Inspectorate (in England and Wales). If your application for planning consent is refused, or approved with conditions you find unacceptable, you may appeal the decision and have it reconsidered by an independent inspector.

Key points to consider:

● An appeal is not a new application - it’s a review of the decision already made.

● The planning inspectorate examines the original application, supporting documents, and refusal reasons.

● The process can take several months and requires careful preparation.

Why Might Someone Submit a Planning Permission Appeal?

There are several scenarios where an appeal becomes a logical step. Common reasons can include:

● Refusal of planning permission - if your application has been turned down entirely.

● Unreasonable planning conditions - Sometimes permission is granted but with restrictions (e.g., materials used, operating hours, or landscaping requirements) that feel excessive or impractical.

● Non-determination - If the planning authority takes longer than the statutory period (usually 8 weeks for minor applications, 13 weeks for major ones) and fails to make a decision, you can appeal.

● Partial approval - When only part of your proposal is granted permission and you wish to challenge the decision on the rest.

For many property owners, appealing is about fairness, ensuring that planning decisions are consistent, transparent, and aligned with local and national policies.

Who Can Submit an Appeal?

Typically, the person who made the application (the applicant) has the right to appeal. In some circumstances, an appointed agent, such as an architect, planning consultant, or chartered surveyor, can act on your behalf.

This is where planning permission advice from experienced professionals becomes invaluable. Chartered surveyors and planning consultants can assess whether an appeal is worth pursuing and prepare strong supporting arguments.

Things to Consider Before Appealing

Before diving straight into the appeals process, you should weigh up these important considerations:

Deadlines

You usually have 6 months from the date of the decision notice to appeal (for householder applications, it’s 12 weeks). Missing this deadline means losing your right to appeal.

Costs

Whilst there is no fee to submit an appeal, there may be some expenses for professional advice, surveys, drawings, or legal representation.

Timescales

Appeals can take several months (sometimes longer than a year) to conclude.

Likelihood of Success

Not all appeals are successful. Reviewing the planning officers report and refusal reasons is crucial before proceeding.

Alternative Options

In some cases, revising your application and resubmitting might be quicker and more cost-effective than appealing.

How to Submit a Planning Permission Appeal

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the appeals process:

1. Review the Refusal Notice

● Carefully read the decision letter from your local planning authority.

● Identify the reasons for refusal or the specific conditions imposed.

● Seek planning permission advice from a chartered surveyor or planning consultant to assess your chances.

2. Decide Whether to Appeal

● Ask yourself: Are the grounds strong enough to justify an appeal?

● Consider whether amending your proposal might address the council’s concerns without needing an appeal.

3. Prepare Your Appeal

● Appeals are made to the Planning Inspectorate (for England and Wales) or the relevant body in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

● The appeal must include:

○ The original application documents

○ The decision notice

○ Grounds of appeal (your reasons for challenging the decision)

○ Any supporting reports, drawings, or evidence

4. Submit Your Appeal Online

● Appeals can usually be submitted through the Planning Inspectorate’s website.

● Ensure everything is submitted within the deadline (12 weeks for householders, 6 months for most other applications).

5. Await Validation and Inspector Assignment

● The Planning Inspectorate will check the documents.

● An inspector is assigned to review the case.

6. The Appeal Process

There are three main methods of appeal:

● Written representations – The simplest and most common method. Both sides submit written arguments.

● Hearing – A structured discussion led by the inspector, often lasting a day.

● Public inquiry – The most formal method, similar to a court hearing, used for complex or controversial cases.

7. The Decision

● The inspector will issue a decision in writing, usually within weeks or months depending on the appeal type.

● They can:

○ Dismiss the appeal (upholding the refusal)

○ Allow the appeal (overturning the refusal)

○ Modify or remove conditions

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When appealing a planning decision, many applicants stumble on errors that could have been avoided with a little more preparation. One of the most frequent issues is missing the submission deadline, which is strictly enforced and leaves no opportunity for late appeals. Others fail to directly address the refusal reasons set out by the local planning authority, instead presenting arguments that do not engage with the real issues at hand.

Submitting inadequate or irrelevant evidence is another common pitfall, as inspectors base their decisions on the strength and relevance of supporting documentation. Applicants sometimes also overlook local planning policies, which play a central role in how appeals are assessed.

Finally, many people attempt to handle the process alone when in fact professional property advice could provide crucial guidance and significantly improve their chances of success.

The Role of Chartered Surveyors in Appeals

Chartered surveyors often play a pivotal role in strengthening a planning permission appeal. Their expertise allows them to carefully review the refusal reasons and provide clear, evidence-based analysis of whether the local planning authority’s decision was justified.

They are well-equipped to prepare detailed planning statements and technical reports, ensuring that every aspect of the appeal is supported by robust documentation. In more formal cases, such as hearings or inquiries, chartered surveyors can also represent applicants and advocate on their behalf.

Beyond this, they offer tailored planning permission guidance, helping applicants understand their options and navigate what can be a complex and time-consuming process. By working with experienced professionals, particularly on high-value developments or contentious applications, applicants greatly increase their chances of achieving a positive outcome.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Appealing a planning decision can feel daunting, but it provides an important safeguard in the planning system. Whether your application has been refused or granted with conditions that don’t work for you, the appeals process ensures fairness and accountability.

The most important things to remember are: act quickly to meet deadlines, provide solid evidence, and seek expert support where possible. With the right planning permission guidance, including input from chartered surveyors, you can make informed choices and give your project the strongest possible foundation.

What is the 3 Metre Rule for a Party Wall?

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 08:38:55 GMT

If your property shares a wall with a neighbouring building, this is known as a party wall. Before starting any work that affects this wall, or even the ground close to it, you may need your neighbour’s formal approval. This is where a party wall agreement comes in, it gives notice of your plans, helping to prevent misunderstandings and disputes. The process is particularly important where excavation is involved, as the risk of structural damage is higher.

Read on to learn more about the 3 metre rule and how it may apply to your project.

Understanding the 3 Metre Rule

The 3 metre rule is a key requirement under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. It applies if you are planning excavation work within 3 metres of your neighbour’s building and your proposed excavation will go deeper than the base of their existing foundations.

The rule is in place to protect the structural stability of your neighbour’s property, as excavating below foundation level can weaken or undermine the building, potentially leading to cracking, damage, or even collapse. Serving notice ensures that both parties are aware of the risks and that safeguards are put in place.

What Must Be Included in a Notice?

If your works fall under the 3 metre rule, you are legally required to serve a party wall notice to your neighbour. This notice should include:

● Your name and address, as the building owner.

● A clear description of the proposed works.

● Drawings or plans showing the excavation depth and location.

● The proposed start date for the works.

Providing detailed information helps reduce the chance of party wall disputes and allows your neighbour to make an informed decision.

What Happens After Serving Notice?

Once a notice is served, your neighbour has three options:

● Consent – If they are satisfied with your plans, the work can proceed without delay, saving time and avoiding unnecessary complications.

● Dissent with agreement – In this case, a party wall surveyor is appointed to draw up a Party Wall Award, clearly setting out the rights, responsibilities, and safeguards for both parties.

● Dissent with dispute – If your neighbour raises concerns, each side may appoint their own surveyor, who will then work together to agree how the works should proceed fairly.

How Simon Levy Can Help

At Simon Levy, we specialise in resolving party wall disputes and providing expert party wall advice to property owners across London and beyond. Our team of chartered surveyors and lawyers have extensive experience in handling all aspects of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Whether you need help drafting a notice, guidance on the 3 metre rule, or professional representation during a dispute, our tailored party wall services will protect your interests while keeping your project on track.

If you are planning works near a neighbouring property and need expert guidance on the 3 metre rule or other party wall matters, contact us today for trusted professional advice.

A Guide to Building Defects and How They Are Diagnosed

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:03:58 GMT

At Simon Levy Associates, we understand that building defects can be a significant concern for property owners. Whether you're facing issues in a newly constructed home or an older property, identifying and addressing these problems promptly is crucial to maintaining the integrity and value of your investment. With over three decades of experience as chartered building surveyors in Borehamwood, we specialise in diagnosing a wide range of building defects and providing effective recommendations.

Common Building Defects We Diagnose

Our team is skilled in identifying a variety of building defects that can arise in both residential and commercial properties. Damp and water penetration can be frequent issues, often caused by leaks in roofing, faulty guttering, or inadequate damp-proof courses. This can lead to significant property damage if not addressed promptly. Condensation and mould growth are other common problems, typically resulting from poor ventilation and insulation, which create conditions for mould to thrive.

Structural movement is another serious concern, often seen as cracks in walls, ceilings, or foundations. This can indicate subsidence or heave, which may require urgent attention. Additionally, bulging or leaning walls can be signs of water damage or structural instability. Sound transmission issues between rooms or floors are also common, especially in properties with insufficient soundproofing.

Each of these defects can compromise the safety and comfort of your property, making early diagnosis and intervention essential.

Our Diagnostic Approach

When you engage Simon Levy Associates for a property inspection, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnose building defects. We begin with a detailed visual inspection, carefully examining both the internal and external elements of the building. This allows us to identify visible signs of defects, which may indicate underlying problems.

For structural defects, we conduct a thorough analysis of the building's structural components, including foundations, load-bearing walls, and roof structures. We evaluate the environmental factors surrounding the property, such as ventilation and drainage, that may be contributing to the defects.

Tailored Solutions and Property Advice

If necessary, we can refer you to trusted contractors from our network of reliable professionals, ensuring that the repair work is completed to the highest standards. Alongside this, we provide property maintenance advice, helping you take preventative measures to avoid future defects. Our goal is to not only resolve current issues but also equip you with the knowledge to maintain your property’s condition long-term.

Navigating Insurance Claims with Property Damage Experts

In cases where building defects result from incidents like flooding or fire, navigating insurance claims can be challenging. As property damage experts, we assist in documenting the damages, estimating repair costs, and ensuring that the insurance settlement reflects the full extent of the damage. We act as your advocate, working with your insurer to ensure that your claim is handled efficiently and fairly.

Speak to Our Team

Addressing building defects promptly is essential for maintaining the safety, comfort, and value of your property. At Simon Levy Associates, we offer expert property inspections. Whether you're dealing with damp issues, structural movement, or require assistance with property damage claims, our team is here to provide the property advice and support you need.

If you're concerned about potential building defects or need expert property advice, contact us at Simon Levy Associates today.

5 Reasons to Use a Construction Defect Expert Witness

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 08:02:56 GMT

At Simon Levy Associates, we understand that construction disputes can often be complex and technical. We provide expert witness services that bring clarity and resolution to construction-related conflicts. Whether you're dealing with property disputes, construction claims, or building defects, our team offers impartial, expert analysis that can help resolve your case efficiently. Here are five key reasons why engaging a construction defect expert witness is crucial for your property dispute.

1. Expert Diagnosis of Building Defects

As experienced building surveyors, we specialise in diagnosing a wide range of building defects, including issues with dampness, structural movement, and condensation. Our team conducts thorough investigations to identify the root causes of defects and provides detailed, accurate reports. This expert analysis ensures that all the technical aspects of your dispute are comprehensively addressed.

2. Impartial and Credible Testimony

One of the primary reasons to engage our services as construction claims experts is our reputation for impartiality and credibility. As members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), we maintain the highest professional standards. Our expert witnesses offer reliable, impartial testimony that is respected in legal proceedings. This impartial approach ensures that your case is presented from an objective standpoint, which can be pivotal in influencing the outcome of your dispute.

3. Extensive Experience in Property Disputes

We offer expert witness services across a broad range of property disputes. From boundary disagreements and dilapidations to party wall issues , our team has the experience to handle a variety of construction-related conflicts. Our expertise spans all aspects of property law and building regulations, allowing us to offer insights that help to resolve your case. Whether you're dealing with a minor issue or a complex dispute, we can provide the necessary expert analysis to assist in your resolution process.

4. Efficient Dispute Resolution

Engaging us as your construction defect expert witness early in the dispute process can significantly speed up resolution. Our detailed reports and expert analysis can clarify complex issues, making it easier to settle disputes and avoid lengthy, costly litigation. In many cases, our involvement helps clients explore alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, which can save both time and money. By offering a clear, expert perspective on the matter at hand, we help parties reach an amicable resolution more efficiently.

5. Comprehensive Support for Legal Teams

Our support goes beyond just providing expert testimony. We assist legal professionals throughout the dispute resolution process, offering strategic advice and preparing clear, detailed reports. Our team ensures that all findings are communicated effectively, making it easier for your legal team to build a strong case. With our comprehensive support, your legal team is better equipped to navigate the complexities of property disputes, helping you achieve a more favourable outcome.

Speak to Our Experts Today

At Simon Levy Associates, we believe that the involvement of a construction defect expert witness is crucial for resolving property disputes effectively. Our extensive experience, impartiality, and comprehensive support ensure that all aspects of your construction-related dispute are addressed with precision and clarity. If you're involved in a property dispute or construction claim, contact us today to see how we can assist you.

Why Hire a Professional Advocate when Making a Building Insurance Claim?

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 14:10:20 GMT

Filing a building insurance claim after property damage can be a stressful and time-consuming process, especially when you're already dealing with the emotional and practical fallout of an unexpected event. Whether it's storm damage, a fire, or a flood, navigating the claim process without expert support can often lead to delays, confusion, or a lower settlement than you're entitled to.

This is where a professional advocate comes in. A building insurance claims advocate is a specialist who acts on behalf of the policyholder during the insurance claims process. While your insurer appoints an insurance adjuster to protect their interests, a claims advocate works solely for you, helping ensure your rights are upheld and your losses fully recognised.

In this article, we’ll explore what a claims advocate does, the key benefits of hiring one, and how Simon Levy can assist you with a successful building insurance claim.

What Is a Building Claims Advocate?

A building claims advocate is a professional who supports property owners through the insurance claims process following damage to a home or commercial premises. Their role includes interpreting your insurance policy, gathering evidence, assessing the damage, and negotiating with the insurer to ensure you receive the appropriate settlement.

Unlike an insurance adjuster, who represents the insurer and aims to manage their costs, an advocate works independently to protect your interests. They have in-depth knowledge of insurance terms, building regulations, and construction costs, and are often qualified property damage experts or work closely with surveyors, engineers, and restoration specialists.

Their goal is simple: to take the burden off your shoulders, expedite the claim process, and secure a fair outcome.

Why You Might Struggle Without One

While many insurance companies present themselves as helpful and straightforward, the reality of handling a building insurance claim can be far more complex. Policies are often filled with legal and technical jargon, making it difficult for property owners to understand exactly what their cover includes. This lack of clarity can lead to misinterpretations that may jeopardise the success of a property damage claim from the outset.

Another common challenge lies in the evidential requirements. Most insurers expect detailed proof of loss, including photographs, itemised damage reports, repair estimates, and supporting documentation that aligns with strict internal criteria. Without guidance, it’s easy to overlook key information or submit evidence in the wrong format, which can lead to unnecessary delays or even outright rejection.

On top of this, claimants are often expected to communicate directly with the insurer’s insurance adjuster, a professional whose role is to minimise the insurer’s financial liability. Even genuine, well-documented claims can be disputed or undervalued if the adjuster believes the damage is cosmetic, pre-existing, or not covered under the policy.

All of this comes at a time when the emotional and financial pressures of dealing with property damage are already high. This is why seeking property insurance advice from a professional advocate can make a significant difference.

The Benefits of Hiring a Professional Advocate

Hiring a claims advocate means having knowledgeable property damage experts in your corner, someone who understands insurance, building structures, and the claims process inside and out. Here are the main ways they can help:

Policy and Jargon Expertise

One of the biggest hurdles in any property damage claim is understanding the fine print of your policy. A professional advocate can break down complex wording, identify what you’re entitled to claim for, and ensure nothing is overlooked. They’ll spot exclusions and limitations that could affect your payout, and help you avoid common mistakes that could lead to delays or denials.

Technical Knowledge of Property and Construction

Unlike general advisers, many claims advocates have a background in building surveying or work alongside qualified professionals. This means they can assess damage accurately, identify structural implications, and prepare detailed reports that insurers are more likely to accept. Whether it's understanding damp ingress, fire-damaged joists, or subsidence, they speak the language of both insurers and builders.

Skilled Negotiation with Insurance Adjusters

Insurance adjusters are trained to scrutinise property damage claims and control costs. A professional advocate knows how to present your case, challenge unfair assessments, and support every aspect of the claim with evidence and industry knowledge. Their negotiation skills can make the difference between a partial settlement and a comprehensive one.

Faster, Smoother Claims Process

Because advocates know the process inside out, they can help avoid delays. They’ll ensure all documents are correctly completed, deadlines are met, and nothing is left out. This proactive approach often leads to quicker claim resolutions and less back-and-forth with insurers.

Reduced Stress and Greater Confidence

Dealing with insurance can feel like a second full-time job, and when it’s your home or business on the line, the stakes are high. With a professional handling your building insurance claim, you can focus on recovery, knowing the process is in capable hands.

How Simon Levy Associates Can Help With Your Building Insurance Claim

At Simon Levy Associates, we understand how difficult it can be to manage a building insurance claim , particularly when faced with disputes, poor communication from insurers, or undervalued settlements. That’s why we offer a hands-on service designed to support homeowners and businesses through the entire insurance claim process.

Our team of property damage experts has extensive experience working on property damage claims involving fire, flooding, storm impact, and structural issues. We don’t just offer property insurance advice, we actively manage your claim from start to finish, liaising with your insurer and making sure your losses are properly assessed and compensated.

With Simon Levy, you’re not just hiring a service, you’re gaining a partner who understands the technical, legal, and emotional aspects of property damage claims. If you’re dealing with property damage and want expert support in making a building insurance claim, don’t go it alone. Contact us today to arrange a consultation or learn more about how we can help.

Top 5 Things a Full House Survey Can Uncover Before You Buy

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 13:34:26 GMT

Buying a home is exciting, but it can also be a minefield if hidden issues lurk below the surface. At Simon Levy Associates, our experienced structural surveyors in Borehamwood, Watford and throughout Greater London recommend getting a full house survey (sometimes called a Level 3 or structural survey) before you sign on the dotted line. Here are the top five things these thorough reports can uncover before you commit to a property purchase.

1. Major Structural Defects

A full house survey digs deep into the property’s structure - checking foundations, roof timbers, load-bearing walls and cracks. These problems can be costly to fix down the line. Catching them early means you can factor them into negotiations or even reconsider your purchase.

2. Damp and Timber Issues

Hidden damp, rising damp, woodworm and dry rot are common surprises with older homes. Our expert structural surveyors look for tell‑tale signs such as damp patches, peeling paint and musty smells. Identifying these issues early prevents nasty surprises like collapsed floors or walls months after you move in.

3. Subsidence or Settlement

Is the ground shifting under your feet? A full house survey looks for subsidence - when parts of the building sink, or settlement cracks. We assess indicators such as gutter slopes, masonry fractures and tree roots. Early discovery lets you investigate potential repairs or insurance options before committing to the property.

4. Outdated or Faulty Services

Beyond structure, a full survey checks wiring, heating systems, gas work, plumbing, drainage and insulation. Faulty electrics, poor insulation or unsafe piping can cause costly upgrades and safety concerns. Our survey flags these issues so you know what modernisation work may be needed in your property purchase survey.

5. Hidden Legal or Compliance Issues

More subtle but equally critical: compliance with building regulations, unauthorised extensions and party‑wall issues. Our chartered surveyors look out for dormers, loft conversions or boundary encroachments that might require legal action - or even removal. This insight gives you peace of mind and leverage during negotiation.

Why Choose Simon Levy Associates?

As chartered structural surveyors regulated by RICS and backed by over 30 years’ experience across Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London, Simon Levy Associates know what to look for and where problems commonly arise. We deliver impartial, expert advice and accurate property purchase surveys that save you money and stress. Our attention to detail can help you avoid expensive surprises and strengthen your negotiating position.

Get in Touch for a Full House Survey

A full house survey is your best safeguard against unforeseen property issues. Let our qualified team guide you through the process and uncover what matters most before you buy. Call Simon Levy Associates today on 020 8207 6100 to request your property purchase survey and secure your future home with confidence.

When to Call in a Construction Expert Witness for Your Dispute

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 13:32:49 GMT

Disputes in construction can get messy fast – from delays and poor workmanship to contract breaches and hidden defects. When talks break down and you’re facing legal action, it might be time to call in a construction expert witness. But when exactly should you involve one, and what can they actually do for you? Let’s break it down.

Understanding the Role of a Construction Expert Witness

A construction expert witness is an independent professional – like us at Simon Levy – who provides impartial, specialist knowledge to help resolve disputes. We analyse complex construction issues, inspect sites, assess workmanship and present evidence that can be used in legal proceedings. In short, we help explain the technical stuff in plain English so courts or arbitration panels can make fair decisions.

Our expert witnesses are often called in to support construction claims experts or solicitors, ensuring that all facts are presented clearly and backed by solid evidence.

When Should You Get One Involved?

It’s best not to wait until a dispute spirals out of control. You should think about calling in a construction expert witness if:

There are ongoing disagreements about the quality of work or whether it meets building regulations.
A project has gone significantly over budget or timeline, and you suspect negligence or breach of contract.
You’re making or defending a construction claim involving multiple parties.
You’re heading into mediation, adjudication, arbitration or court and need expert insight to support your case.

Getting a construction claims expert involved early can help strengthen your position, prevent escalation, and even encourage out-of-court settlements.

Common Types of Property Disputes We Help With

At Simon Levy, we regularly support clients across Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London with various property disputes, including:

Poor quality building work or unfinished projects
Party wall disagreements
Boundary disputes
Claims over professional negligence
Contract interpretation and payment issues

We’ve worked on everything from small residential jobs to large-scale commercial developments, and we tailor our reports and advice to suit your situation.

Why Choose Simon Levy as Your Construction Expert Witness?

With over 30 years of experience in building surveying, we know the ins and outs of construction – from the groundworks to the final finish. Our team is known for being thorough, impartial and professional. Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, solicitor or developer, we’ll provide clear, concise expert reports and confident testimony where required.

Based in Borehamwood, we regularly work across Watford, Hertfordshire and Greater London. We’ve built a reputation for honest advice, detailed investigations and reliable support during disputes.

Need Help with a Property Dispute?

If you’re caught up in a construction-related disagreement, don’t leave it to chance. Bring in a trusted construction expert witness to get clarity and confidence in your claim. Contact Simon Levy today for a friendly chat or to book an expert assessment.

Common Defects a Structural Surveyor Looks for & How to Avoid Them

Tue, 27 May 2025 12:46:44 GMT

You may already be familiar with house surveys when purchasing a property. A full house inspection helps buyers get the full picture of the property’s condition so they can make informed decisions and potentially negotiate on price.

When you’re on the other side as a seller, the prospect of a buyer conducting a structural survey can seem daunting. You may worry about what the inspection might uncover. But don’t panic, our guide is here to walk you through the common defects a structural surveyor will be looking for and how you can prevent them from being an issue.

Are all homebuyer surveys the same?

When purchasing a property, buyers aren’t legally required to arrange a homebuyer’s survey. However, it can be incredibly beneficial in highlighting any potentially costly problems with the property’s condition.

There are different survey levels, starting with a Level 1 Survey (Condition Report). This is a basic visual inspection, suitable for new-build homes. A Level 2 Survey (Homebuyer’s Report) is the most common, offering more details on the property’s condition.

The most comprehensive report is a Level 3 Survey (Building or Structural Survey), which provides an extensive review of the property’s condition, along with an estimate of repair costs. We recommend this type of property inspection for homes over 50 years old and those that have undergone significant renovations.

Learn more about the difference between Level 2 and Level 3 surveys .

Why it’s important to be aware of what a property inspection will cover

If you’re selling a property, it’s important to remember that your buyer may decide to choose a Level 3 property purchase survey. Knowing what this covers can help you carry out any repairs or alterations to mitigate any problems a structural surveyor may pick up on.

You may find you need to pay for some repairs ahead of the sale. However, these are often less than the amount you could lose if a buyer tries to negotiate a lower price.

Common defects structural surveyors look for — and how to avoid them

Structural surveyors are trained to spot issues that could pose any health or safety risks, signs of illegal alterations, and problems that could lead to costly repairs.

Here are a few building defects that could be highlighted during a Level 3 property survey:

1. Damp and moisture damage

Damp isn’t always immediately obvious, but it can cause structural damage and have a negative impact on your health if left untreated. Dampness can stem from unsealed foundations (rising damp), leaks, gaps in the roof, or poor ventilation.

How to prevent damp and moisture damage

Damp and moisture tend to build up over a long time, so the best way to limit damage is to:

● Regularly check pipes and your roof space for any leaks, and get them fixed quickly

● Use an extractor fan or dehumidifier in moisture-prone rooms, like the bathroom or kitchen, especially in winter

● Avoid drying laundry indoors

● Open windows regularly to allow air flow

● Consider a damp-proof course

2. Distorted walls

Sometimes, damp, moisture or poor installation can cause walls to bulge or become distorted. If the bulging is significant, it could be a sign of subsidence, which may put the wall’s structural integrity into question.

How to minimise wall distortion or bulging

Keep on top of any damp or moisture issues to avoid this leading to wall damage. It’s also important to make sure that any structural work, whether it’s an extension or wall alteration, is carried out by a qualified professional who will use the best materials and techniques.

Always get early signs of wall distortion checked as soon as possible.

3. Structural movement

This type of issue may present as wall bulging, but you may also find that structural movement leads to cracks, uneven flooring, or misaligned doors and windows.

Structural movement can be caused by external factors, such as living near a busy road or construction site. Sometimes, it’s due to shifting soil or foundations, and in some cases, it’s simply down to the age of the building.

How to limit structural movement damage

Regular inspections are the best way to prevent structural movement from causing expensive damage. Keep an eye on any cracks or noticeable shifts and get them checked as soon as possible, especially if they seem to be widening.

If you plan to make any structural changes, such as removing a wall, make sure there is enough support and always hire a qualified professional to carry out the work.

4. Asbestos

Although a building survey won’t include a full asbestos report, your surveyor may note any suspicions of asbestos. This material was commonly used as a building material until it was banned in the 1990s. When disturbed, it can pose health risks.

Some older properties, particularly those with textured wallpaper or artex ceilings, may contain asbestos. Structural surveyors may suggest further investigation if they believe your property could contain asbestos.

How to deal with asbestos

If you live in a property that was built or decorated before the 1970s, it’s worth sending a sample of any suspicious materials for testing. If it does contain asbestos, additional safety precautions will need to be taken when removing the material.

5. Timber decay

Timber foundations, roof components, and other structural elements can be affected by dry or wet rot (fungal infections), which can lead them to decay. Signs include visual fungal growth, a musty smell, and weakening beams or floorboards.

How to prevent timber decay

If you spot any signs of timber decay, seek treatment right away to prevent it from spreading or causing structural damage. An expert will be able to apply chemicals to kill the fungus and, if there’s already any damage, they may need to replace the timber.

As a preventative measure, we recommend making sure any timber components are treated with wood preservatives and that you limit the risk of dampness, which can encourage fungal growth.

Should you appoint a structural surveyor when selling a property?

While structural surveys are often seen as a buyer’s responsibility, it can also be worthwhile to arrange one before putting your property on the market.

It will give you the chance to address any issues before they cause real damage, and help you feel confident knowing your home is market-ready and worth the asking price.

If you’re planning to put your home on the market in Hertfordshire, get peace of mind with a full Level 3 house inspection from our RICS-registered surveyors.

Contact Simon Levy to learn more.

Building Maintenance Tips for Protecting Your Investment

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 11:13:45 GMT

At Simon Levy Associates, we understand that your property is one of your most valuable investments. As experienced building surveyors operating across Greater London, the Home Counties, and the South East, we’re here to offer practical property advice that safeguards your assets for the long term.

Whether you're managing a residential home or a commercial site, regular maintenance is crucial for preserving structural integrity and preventing costly repairs down the line. Here are some of our top maintenance tips to help you protect your property.

Conduct Regular Property Inspections

A thorough inspection is the foundation of effective building maintenance. Look out for signs of wear and tear, such as cracks in walls, damp patches, or damaged roofing. Small issues can escalate quickly if left unattended.

Our team of chartered building surveyors can provide professional inspections to identify both visible and hidden problems. Early detection can save you significant costs and prevent more serious structural concerns.

Maintain Roofs and Gutters

Roofs are your property’s first defence against the elements. Regularly check for missing or broken tiles, and ensure gutters are clear of debris to prevent water ingress. Blocked or damaged drainage systems can lead to internal damp, mould, and even foundation issues.

As chartered surveyors, we can carry out detailed surveys to assess the condition of elements such as roofing and drainage systems. Based on our findings, we’ll then provide tailored recommendations within our reports to help you extend the lifespan of these critical components.

Stay Ahead of Moisture Issues

Damp is one of the most common and destructive issues we encounter in properties. Whether caused by poor ventilation, leaking pipes, or rising damp, it can seriously affect the building’s structure and indoor air quality.

A proactive approach – such as improving ventilation, checking pipework, and treating affected areas promptly – can make all the difference. If in doubt, seek professional property advice to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Update Safety and Compliance Features

Over time, building regulations evolve, and your property must remain compliant. This includes fire safety systems, accessibility requirements, and energy efficiency standards.

Our team at Simon Levy Associates regularly supports clients in staying compliant, particularly landlords and property managers who are responsible for meeting legal obligations. Our experience across diverse property types ensures tailored solutions to meet your specific needs.

Keep Accurate Maintenance Records

Keeping track of past maintenance, inspections, and repairs is essential. A well-documented history can support insurance claims, property valuations, and future planning. It also provides vital evidence of due diligence if you ever sell or lease the property.

Our building surveyors frequently provide detailed condition reports and maintenance schedules, helping you plan ahead and avoid unwelcome surprises.

Protect Your Investment Today

Whether you're a homeowner, landlord or commercial property owner, consistent maintenance is key to safeguarding your investment. As trusted building surveyors, Simon Levy Associates is here to help you make informed decisions with expert property advice. Contact us today to book a survey with our experienced team.

What’s the Difference Between a Structural & Dilapidation Surveyor?

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 23:25:00 GMT

When dealing with property assessments, understanding the roles of different surveyors is essential. Structural and dilapidation surveyors are two key professionals involved in evaluating the condition of buildings. However, they serve distinct purposes and operate in different scenarios. In this guide, you can discover the key differences between structural and dilapidation surveyors, including when to hire each one.

What is a Structural Surveyor?

Structural surveyors play a vital role in assessing the integrity and safety of buildings, ensuring they meet required standards and remain structurally sound. Whether you are purchasing a property, planning renovations, or identifying potential structural issues, a structural surveyor provides expert analysis and recommendations. Their assessments help property owners, buyers, and developers make informed decisions, avoid costly repairs, and comply with building regulations.

Their Role

These surveyors are responsible for assessing the structural integrity and safety of buildings. They specialise in identifying potential risks, defects, or weaknesses within a property’s framework. Their role is crucial in ensuring buildings remain stable and meet safety regulations.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

Structural surveyors perform a range of essential tasks to ensure a building's safety and stability. One of their primary responsibilities is conducting structural assessments, where they examine a building’s foundations, walls, roofs, and overall structural integrity. Through this process, they identify defects such as subsidence, cracks, damp issues, and other weaknesses that could compromise the safety of the structure.

After completing their assessment, these surveyors provide detailed structural reports, outlining their findings and recommending necessary repairs or reinforcements to maintain or restore the building's integrity. They also advise property owners on renovation and extension plans, ensuring that any proposed changes are structurally viable and do not pose risks.

Additionally, they play a crucial role in ensuring compliance with building regulations, confirming that a property meets all legal and safety requirements before construction or renovation projects proceed. Their expertise is vital in preventing costly structural failures and maintaining the longevity of buildings.

When are they required?

There are various scenarios in which you will require structural surveyors. If you’re buying an older property, for example, structural surveyors can help to assess any hidden structural problems.

Structural surveyors are also fantastic if you’re planning significant renovations, helping you to ensure modifications won’t compromise structural stability. These surveyors can also be helpful following extreme weather damage, as they can assess potential risks after flooding, storms, or earthquakes.

What is a Dilapidation Surveyor?

A dilapidation surveyor plays a crucial role in the property and construction industries, helping landlords, tenants, and property owners assess the condition of buildings before or after a lease period. Whether you’re a commercial tenant preparing to vacate a property or a landlord looking to ensure a building remains in good condition, understanding the role of these surveyors is essential. Below, we explore what they are, what they do, and why their expertise is valuable in protecting property investments and ensuring legal compliance.

Their Role

Dilapidation surveyors focus on the condition and maintenance of a property, particularly in the context of lease agreements. Their primary role is to carry out a dilapidation inspection and document property conditions before and after a tenancy to determine any necessary repairs.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

A dilapidation surveyor carries out key tasks, including conducting pre-lease inspections, which include assessing a property’s condition before a tenant moves in. They can also prepare a Schedule of Condition, which is a documented report that records existing defects.

Once a tenant has moved out of a property, these surveyors can carry out post-lease assessments, identifying any deterioration beyond normal wear and tear. These surveyors can also prepare a Schedule of Dilapidations, which is a legal document outlining the required repairs and associated costs.

When are they required?

Dilapidation surveyors are great for landlords. At the start of a commercial lease, it can be beneficial to hire a dilapidation surveyor to help you document the initial condition of the property. Similarly, at the end of a lease, a dilapidation surveyor can help you determine any damages and whether the tenant is liable for repairs. Finally, during lease disputes, these professionals can also be helpful if there is disagreement over the property’s state and repair obligations.

Key Differences Between Structural and Dilapidation Surveyors

While both professionals assess properties, their focus and reporting methods differ significantly. Generally, structural surveyors and dilapidation surveyors are hired for different reasons and produce different types of reports. Read on to learn more about how they differ.

The Focus of the Role

Structural surveyors primarily focus on a building’s stability and safety, assessing its structural integrity and identifying any risks that may compromise its durability. In contrast, dilapidation surveyors focus on a property’s condition and legal obligations, particularly in the context of lease agreements.

While structural surveyors work to identify potential hazards and ensure the long-term strength of a building, dilapidation surveyors provide detailed condition reports that help settle legal and financial disputes between property owners and tenants. Both roles are essential in property management but serve different purposes depending on whether the concern is structural soundness or lease-related responsibilities.

Type of Report

Structural surveyors provide comprehensive structural reports that detail the overall integrity of a building. These reports highlight defects, potential hazards, and necessary repairs. The reports are often used in property purchases, insurance assessments, and major renovation projects to determine the extent of necessary work before proceeding with any structural modifications.

In contrast, dilapidation surveyors produce Schedules of Condition and Schedules of Dilapidations. A Schedule of Condition is typically conducted before a tenant moves in, recording any pre-existing damage to avoid liability disputes later. A Schedule of Dilapidations, conducted at the end of a lease, identifies repairs or maintenance work required under the terms of the lease agreement. These reports are used as legal documents to resolve disputes between landlords and tenants regarding the condition of the property and the financial responsibility for any necessary repairs.

When to Hire Each Type of Surveyor

There are different scenarios in which a structural surveyor and a dilapidation surveyor could be helpful. In this section, you can explore some quick examples of when to hire a structural surveyor, and when to hire a dilapidation surveyor.

Structural Surveyor

You should consider hiring a structural surveyor when:

You need a property assessed for safety before purchase
There are visible structural issues that require investigation
You plan to renovate or modify a building’s structure
Insurance companies or mortgage lenders request a structural survey

Dilapidation Surveyor

You should consider hiring a dilapidation surveyor when:

You are a landlord needing to assess a property's condition before and after a lease
You are a tenant wanting to document a property’s state to avoid unnecessary repair costs
There is a dispute between a landlord and tenant regarding repair responsibilities
Legal proceedings require professional property assessments

Our Services at Simon Levy

At Simon Levy, we offer expert property surveying services tailored to your needs. Whether you require a detailed structural assessment or an accurate dilapidation report , our experienced team provides professional advice and comprehensive evaluations.

Why Choose Us

At Simon Levy, we have in-depth industry expertise. Our qualified surveyors have extensive experience in both structural and dilapidation assessments. We can offer you accurate and detailed reporting, as we ensure every survey is thorough, clear, and legally compliant. Our professional services each have a client-focused approach, whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or tenant, we tailor our services to your requirements.

For more information or to book a consultation, please visit our website at Simon Levy. Alternatively, get in touch with us directly. Let our experts help you make informed property decisions today!

How to Make a Successful Commercial Planning Application

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 11:41:46 GMT

In the business world, it’s important to stay one step ahead of the competition at all times. This can mean regularly investing in new products and services, where you may also wish to expand your premises or build a new office building to keep up with demand. Redeveloping your physical premises in this way can help to reinvigorate your brand, drawing new customers and clients to your enterprise.

But before you go ahead with a new build, it’s important to ensure that you’ve had your planning application approved. It is up to your local authority to decide whether your building plans are suitable for the area, where you should review your application carefully before submitting.

Read on to find out more about how to make a successful commercial planning application.

Preliminary Research

Before you even think about submitting a commercial planning application, you'll need to do your homework. Start by diving into your local council's development plan, paying close attention to specific policies regarding commercial development. You should also book a pre-application consultation with the council, where this will allow you to discuss your plans and receive valuable feedback before submitting your formal application.

Preparing Your Documents

A comprehensive application is key. Gather all necessary documentation, including detailed site location plans, architectural drawings, a robust planning statement, and any supporting reports such as environmental impact or traffic assessments. Always double-check your local planning authority's website for their specific document requirements.

Addressing Key Concerns

Your application must address key concerns to avoid objections. Consider how you will minimise any negative effects for neighbours, such as loss of privacy or overshadowing. You should also thoroughly assess and mitigate any environmental impacts, such as pollution or habitat disruption.

Submission & Follow-Up

Once your application is ready, submit it through the appropriate channels, either online or in person, and pay the required fee. Monitor the progress of your application closely and respond promptly to any requests for further information. If objections arise, address them constructively and provide any necessary clarifications or revisions.

Simon Levy: Planning Permission Guidance for Your Next Project

At Simon Levy, our expert team can offer comprehensive planning permission advice, helping you to prepare design plans and submit a successful application to your local authority.

With our support, you can ensure that your application addresses all key concerns and includes the relevant details, making it more likely that your plans will be approved the first time round.

Get in touch with us today to find out more about our specialist property advice services.

Planning Permission Help: Your Questions Answered

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:22:01 GMT

The world of planning permission can feel like a maze – full of twists, turns and unfamiliar terminology. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a homeowner dreaming about an extension, making your way through the process can be daunting. Fortunately, this guide is here to answer your most burning planning permission questions.

Q: Do I even need planning permission?

This is a common first hurdle. Planning permission is generally required for any development that alters the physical appearance of your property. This includes extensions, loft conversions, new builds and even some alterations like installing a new roofline window. If you're unsure, it's always best to check with your local planning authority (LPA) or consult a building surveyor like Simon Levy.

Q: Okay, I need planning permission. What now?

The first step is to understand the planning process in your area. Here at Simon Levy, we can help you decipher local planning policies and identify any potential hurdles. We can also guide you through the application process, which typically involves submitting detailed plans, drawings and a written application to your LPA.

Q: How long does it take to get planning permission?

The timeframe for planning permission decisions can vary depending on the complexity of your project and your local authority's workload. Typically, you can expect a decision within 8-12 weeks, although larger developments may take longer.

Q: What if my application gets rejected?

Don't despair! A rejection doesn't necessarily mean the end of the road, and finding out the reasons for the rejection is essential. Here at Simon Levy, our building surveyors can analyze the decision and advise you on the best course of action; this might involve revising your plans or submitting a planning permission appeal.

Q: What's a planning permission appeal?

If you disagree with the LPA's decision, you can submit a formal appeal. This involves presenting your case to the Planning Inspectorate, an independent body that reviews planning decisions. The appeal process can be complex, and having expert help from Simon Levy can significantly increase your chances of success.

Q: How much does planning permission cost?

The cost of planning permission can vary depending on the size and complexity of your project. The application fee itself is set by the government, but additional costs can include architectural plans, building surveys and professional fees.

Q: Should I get a building surveyor involved?

While not always mandatory, involving a building surveyor like Simon Levy in your planning permission journey offers significant advantages. Our expertise can save you time, money and frustration. We can help you:

● Determine if you need planning permission

● Interpret local planning policies

● Prepare a strong planning application

● Respond to any objections from the LPA

● Navigate the planning permission appeal process

● Offer ongoing property advice throughout your project

Beyond Planning Permission Help

At Simon Levy, our services extend far beyond planning permission. We offer a comprehensive range of property advice, including:

● Building surveys and inspections

● Party wall agreements

● Project management

● Building regulation approvals

● Expert witness services

Ready to Get Started?

Don't let planning permission get in the way of your dream project - get in touch with Simon Levy today for a free consultation. Our team of experienced building surveyors is here to guide you through the process and help your project run smoothly, from planning permission to completion.

How Can Construction Consultants Assist Developers?

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 10:21:17 GMT

Professional property advice can often be integral to the success of a project, ensuring it is carried out correctly and legally. Construction consultants are trusted professionals who offer this advice, helping to both avoid and resolve disputes. In this helpful guide, you can learn how construction consultants can help developers complete a project.

What Are Construction Consultants?

Guiding developers and contractors, construction consultants help projects to reach completion successfully and efficiently. These industry professionals will provide both advice and support throughout the key phases of a project, helping those in management to meet regulatory requirements.

By bringing together technical expertise and practical execution, construction dispute consultants can empower developers and contractors to make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure they progress steadily toward their goals.

Key Roles of Construction Consultants in Development Project

When hired by a developer, construction consultants will carry out some key roles during a project. From streamlining the project to making sure it stays on budget, construction consultants can be invaluable. Here, you can find out what construction consultants can do to help ensure a development project runs smoothly.

Streamlining Project Planning and Feasibility Analysis

Construction consultants can help to make sure that a project is feasible and that the planned budget is realistic. A construction consultant’s involvement in the planning process means that the project can be set up for success from the offset, increasing the chances of it reaching completion.

Ensuring Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

Building regulations must be adhered to carefully during a project, as they are designed to ensure that the final result is safe. Construction consultants, thankfully, can help to navigate these often tricky regulations, making sure that they are correctly interpreted and adhered to. This property advice can be integral to the health of a construction project, making construction consultants invaluable.

Enhancing Cost Management and Budgeting

To ensure a project can reach completion, it’s important to think about the costs associated with each step of the process. Without careful budgeting, often construction costs can overrun and lead to disputes, as well as delays in a project. Thankfully, construction consultants can use their expertise to help ensure a project stays on schedule and on budget, preventing the possibility of costly changes and serious arguments.

Optimising Design and Materials Selection

Construction consultants can often provide advice about whether a design will work, and how to improve it, as well as guide them towards the materials available. This helps ensure that the final product is consistent with the design, preventing disputes over material selection at a later stage.

Improving Contractor and Supplier Coordination

Contractors and suppliers need to have a good understanding and working relationship for a project to be successfully completed. Communication on timings is a must, as a lack of supplies can lead to serious delays and costly mistakes. Construction consultants are there to help make sure both parties are communicating effectively, particularly when large changes are involved.

Boosting Efficiency with Project Management Expertise

If you have little experience with project management, it can be difficult to effectively plan a project. Boosting efficiency is highly important, as it helps to keep a project on schedule and can therefore prevent disputes. Construction consultants can often step in to help make sure a project is managed properly and that the schedule is realistic.

The Benefits of Construction Consultancy Services

The role construction consultants play in assisting project management is invaluable to many people, ensuring that everything goes to plan and progresses smoothly. Below, you can discover some of the key advantages of construction consultancy services, including the expert guidance they offer and how they are skilled in mitigating risk.

Expert Guidance

Arguably, the greatest advantage of hiring a construction consultant to support you as your project is completed is the expert guidance you will receive. Knowledgeable and experienced, the right consultants can provide you with their expertise, helping you to make the important decisions well-informed.

Cost Management and Budget Control

Preventing you from making costly mistakes can ensure your project can reach its full potential. Cost management is often difficult to balance amongst your other responsibilities in running a project, so let an external construction consultant take the weight and worry off your shoulders. Construction consultants will assist you in effectively managing the funds assigned to your project, making sure that the project goes to plan and that no disputes over overrunning funds will arise.

Risk Mitigation

Should a project take a bad turn, often this can be risky for a business. To mitigate the risks that a construction project can pose, specialist construction and property advice consultants can make sure the work is completed to a high standard and is therefore suitable for use. These professionals are well-informed about building regulations.

Access to Specialist Knowledge

Construction consultants play a pivotal role in the success of diverse projects by bringing specialised expertise across various domains. Their knowledge of structural engineering allows them to evaluate the integrity and feasibility of designs, ensuring safety and compliance with building codes. In the area of sustainability, they guide projects towards eco-friendly practices, integrating energy-efficient materials, renewable energy solutions, and sustainable construction techniques to minimise environmental impact.

Conflict Resolution

Disputes in construction projects can often be messy and complicated, often arising from factors such as delays or quality concerns. The challenges can escalate quickly, resulting in project stagnation, financial losses, and strained relationships between stakeholders. Thankfully, professional consultants can help to reach a construction dispute resolution and can help to reach a fair outcome for all parties involved.

Our Services at Simon Levy Associates

Whether your construction project is large or small, disputes could derail its completion. Here at Simon Levy Associates, our construction dispute consultants can support you through challenging disagreements. We will offer you quality building dispute advice, making sure that your case is resolved as quickly as possible and taking the weight of stress from your shoulders.

Please visit our website to learn more about us and our professional services . Here, you can also find more helpful blog posts and further handy information. Alternatively, get in touch directly with our experts directly to find out how we can help you resolve any ongoing construction project disputes.

When Might You Require a Construction Expert Witness

Fri, 03 Jan 2025 11:23:09 GMT

Construction projects are complex undertakings that allow us to raise new buildings and redesign existing structures. Often, huge sums of money must change hands to allow for construction to go ahead, where projects can take many months or even years to complete. As such, there is always the chance that disputes will arise, either from the perspective of the builders or from the client.

This is where a construction expert witness may step in. These professionals are incredibly knowledgeable about construction-related disputes, where their role is to assist a court or tribunal to understand specialist information that’s integral to the case at hand. As a result of their support, a fair outcome can be reached based on the facts.

Read on to find out more about when you might require a construction expert witness to review your situation.

Construction Defects

A construction expert witness may be called in to assess a case if poor workmanship has been disputed. For instance, structural failings or the use of substandard materials could lead to a conflict, where the expert witness will be able to determine whether the completed work has indeed failed to meet strict industry standards.

Delays & Scheduling Issues

Construction projects often incur delays, where these could lead to expected costs or a loss of revenue. If the case is up for debate, then an expert witness may be called in to analyse schedules, assign responsibility, and assess whether delays were avoidable. This will help to ensure that fault is attributed to the parties that are truly responsible.

Safety Violations

Building sites are hazardous places, where the correct safety procedures must be followed at all times. If a workman experiences an injury due to unsafe practices or equipment failures, then this may need to be accredited by an expert witness. They will assess whether safety protocols were followed and if the site complied with regulatory standards, in order to consider whether negligence played a role in the accident.

Cost Overruns

Disputes may arise on a construction project if there is a significant and unexplained increase in building costs. This can alert clients to wrongdoing, where an expert witness can assist in the investigation by reviewing estimates, budgets and project changes. Their work will help the courts or tribunal heads to determine if overspending was justified, or if it was caused by mismanagement.

Simon Levy: Investigating Your Construction & Property Disputes

At Simon Levy, our construction claims experts have extensive experience in diagnosing building defects, where we can provide the Courts with depe ndable services to assist in their investigations. We’ve been a practising member of the Academy of Experts since 1996, a testament to our professionalism and expertise.

Get in touch with us today to find out more about our construction expert witness services.

Why Should You Hire a Building Surveyor when Buying a New Home?

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 15:57:51 GMT

Buying a new home is a big step, whether it's your first home or you're seasoned in purchasing property. No matter your experience with buying property, it's essential to make sure that your purchase is sound and that all bases have been covered. One of the most important things you can do during a property purchase is to hire a chartered surveyor to assist you on your journey. When buying a home, there are many things that are often overlooked, which can be detrimental to the success of your home purchase. Our blog is here to give you an in-depth guide on property surveying and its importance. If you're considering buying a home, our article is here to help you understand the importance of a property inspection and how it can help you. To learn more, keep on reading.

What Do Building Surveyors Do?

You may be wondering what the role of a building surveyor is when it comes to purchasing a property. Building surveyors are established professionals who evaluate buildings before the transaction takes place. They look at the quality, structural integrity and surrounding area of a building to determine which areas need improving or attention. The typical services you can expect from a building surveyor includes:

● Looking for defects within the building

● Advising on environmental and health risk factors

● Advising on legal or planning issues

● Help with building planning and applications for building permits

● Advice on property alterations, improvements or extensions

Types Of Surveys

There are several homebuyer surveys out there, each looking at different elements of a property and going into different levels of detail.

Level 1 (Condition Survey)

A Level 1 condition survey is the most basic report on a property. This report will detail any visible defects and urgent issues that your surveyor spots on the property. This survey is recommended for normal houses, bungalows, flats and other properties in reasonable condition.

Level 2 (Homebuyer Survey)

This is a more detailed report on the condition of a property, going into more detail regarding any repairs and other issues that need fixing. This survey is appropriate for most properties.

Level 3 (Building Survey)

A Level 3 building survey is the most extensive report given, which goes into detail about a range of issues and aspects of the property. This survey gives a comprehensive review of a property’s condition, as well as an estimation of how much the repairs will cost to carry out. This survey is recommended for older properties and properties that have had major renovations.

Why Are Property Inspections So Important?

Property inspections are crucial for various reasons. You may be wondering why you need a property surveyor to help you with your transaction but they are an integral part of the process. Property surveys are not a legal requirement in England and Wales, but they can be extremely useful in assessing the condition of your property before you go ahead with your purchase.

Safety

Safety is a key reason why property inspections are so important, especially for tenants about to purchase a building. A property inspection and follow-up report will help buyers become aware of safety risks that are being posed by any defects within the house. Additionally, for landlords who need to be made aware of the issues and potential problems within a house, property inspections help with covering all bases and assessing the building in line with industry standards.

Peace Of Mind

Peace of mind is another key reason why property inspections are so important. For buyers who are looking for a property, there can often be concerns with regards to safety, structural issues and other threats to a property such as mould or age. By having an inspection carried out at any level, buyers can be made aware of certain issues ahead of the transaction, leaving them well informed before their purchase.

Illegal Additions To A Property

If a specific property has any illegal features or extended areas that have not been permitted, it’s essential that buyers are made aware of this. Buying a property with illegal elements can cause serious issues later on in the future, especially regarding tax.

Documenting Maintenance Issues

If your surveyor does come across several maintenance issues regarding the property that you want to purchase, they will have to give you and the landlord a detailed report of defects, repairs and other elements of the property that need to be addressed. By delivering a detailed report, these maintenance issues are not only handled early on, they are documented in the report. Having these files can be useful in the future, for future purchase or selling of the home, or if the property needs frequent repairs.

Choosing The Right Chartered Surveyors

Once you've found the property that you want to buy, finding a professional and established surveyor is crucial for your inspections. You may be overwhelmed when it comes to choosing your surveyor, but our guide below is here to help simplify your choice.

Choose A Local Company

You may be wondering why choosing a local surveyor can benefit you, but depending on the area you are buying in, you want a surveyor who is well versed in the local surroundings. Someone with a good knowledge of the local area, laws and regulations, land restrictions…etc will be able to assist you with your purchase with ease. Local experts can help you feel reassured during the process, as they have in-depth knowledge regarding the area you are buying in.

Ensure They Are RICS Qualified

An essential part of choosing the right surveyor is to ensure that they are RICS qualified. All RICS regulated surveyors will have to adhere to their professional regulatory requirements, meaning you can feel reassured that your property is being surveyed against industry standards. Choosing a professional company that is regulated is essential for buying a home, as they will deliver a high standard of professionalism, ensuring that all necessary areas are covered and checked during your inspection.

Check Reviews

Reviews are another important place to conduct some research when choosing building surveyors. Reviews and references can give you objective information regarding the companies you want to use from previous customers. Reading reviews will tell you everything you need to know about a company's previous work, as well as how their clients perceive their service to be.

Word Of Mouth References

Word of mouth references are also a good way to find reliable surveyors that you can trust. Being recommended to a company by family, friends or colleagues can help you feel reassured in the service provided.

Quotes

Another key thing to do when looking for your building surveyor company is to get free quotes from a range of organisations. By doing this, you can gain a better understanding of which services are covered for what price, and which companies are charging too much. By shopping around for a few quotes, this can help you determine how much you want to spend and on what type of survey.

Simon Levy: Structural Surveyors & Professional Property Inspections

Whether you're buying a home for the first time or you're many properties down the line, skipping out on property inspections can be detrimental to your purchase. We've covered everything you need to know regarding property purchases, so that you know exactly what to look for in a chartered surveyor.

Here at Simon Levy, we have a team of professional and qualified property surveyors, ready to help you on your transaction. We offer comprehensive building services, designed to help you have the most stress-free property purchase possible. With over 30 years of experience, our team is committed to helping all of our clients with professionalism and care.

To learn more about our services, or how we can help you, feel free to get in touch with our team today. We will be happy to answer any queries or questions you may have.

11 Questions to Ask When Purchasing Commercial Property

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 13:04:16 GMT

Purchasing your first commercial property is an exciting but daunting prospect. After all, it’s a significant investment for your business, and one that requires plenty of research and due diligence to make certain that you’ve chosen the right space. This is where working with a commercial surveying company can come in handy. We’ve put together 11 questions you should be asking before you take the plunge on a commercial property.

1. What is the Purpose of the Property Purchase?

No matter what type of commercial property you’re looking to buy, you need to be clear on its purpose. The biggest mistake you can make as a business owner is to invest in property without a clear understanding on why you need it and the purpose that it serves you. Create a list of criteria before beginning your search so you can be confident that the properties you view will meet your specific requirements.

2. What Condition is the Property In?

Nobody wants to occupy a property that’s falling apart or is in need of costly repairs, so make sure that you perform a thorough property inspection for any signs of damp, electrical or plumbing issues roof leaks or any other flaws. Working with a structural surveyor will provide you with peace of mind that every part of the property has been checked over by a professional, meaning that any small issues you might have overlooked don’t turn into larger problems.

3. Is the Property in the Right Location?

Location matters in the business world, so you’ll need to assess whether the location of the property in question is right for you and your company. The industry you work in will impact the type of location you’ll need - a retail space, for instance, will benefit from a central location with plenty of foot traffic, while a business where customer parking is required might be better suited to a less built-up area with more space.

You may also need to consider public transport accessibility for your staff or need to determine the volume of competitors located nearby. All of these factors and more will be crucial to deciding whether a location is suitable for your business.

4. Do You Have a Realistic Budget and ROI Goals?

Few people have the luxury of not having to heavily factor in finances into their choice of commercial property. When going into this process, it’s essential to set a firm budget and stick to it - don’t overstretch yourself and make sure you can comfortably make any necessary payments. This includes allowances for hidden costs, such as professional fees and stamp duty, mortgage payments, ongoing maintenance fees and environmental compliances and waste management costs.

You should also set an ROI standard of 10% minimum cash return to make the investment worth your while.

5. Have You Sought Advice from Commercial Property Experts?

While it’s important that you and your team see the property yourself, it’s just as important to take advice from professionals in the industry. When you’re buying a commercial property for the first time, there’s bound to be factors you haven’t considered before or might overlook, so having a second pair of eyes can really help make sure that you’re making a sound decision.

From a conveyancing solicitor to an accountant and an expert structural surveyor, make sure to hire professionals who have the necessary experience to assist you in this venture.

6. Can Accessibility Needs Be Met?

Just like valuable amenities such as parking, you’ll want to think about how accessible the property is for your staff or clients. Whether is a shop or industrial space, accessibility is essential to prevent issues with compliance or frustrated stakeholders down the line. Check that the property has wheelchair access, lifts for those with mobility issues and, if not, how this might be remedied.

7. How Much Flexibility Does the Property Provide Your Business?

Assuming that business growth is your goal, it’s a good idea to find premises that allow you the opportunity to expand when you need to. Commercial property is more sensitive to economic shifts, so your property should be adaptable to any developments in market trends or changes within your business operations.

For example, could you repurpose your property in order to protect your investment and minimise costs if it came to it, such as for co-working spaces, storage facilities, subletting or parking? You might also want to consider whether there are limitations on what you can do within the property; if changing aspects of the building is something you might want to do in the future, make sure this is possible before signing a contract.

8. How Has the Property Impacted Former Occupants?

Are you able to find out how previous commercial occupants have found the site, and whether the property impacted their successes or failures? This can be helpful for learning from their mistakes, or taking advice from things that have worked well for them. Plus, if a previous occupant with a similar business model to yours performed well, you can take this as a positive sign that the property might be a good fit for you, too.

9. Is the Property Eligible for Any Relief Allowances?

The UK Government’s capital relief allowances are designed to help rebuild failing communities, so it’s worth checking if your potential commercial property is eligible for Capital Allowance (against taxable profits). There’s the Business Premises Renovation Allowance (BPRA), or the Land Remediation Relief (LRR) from corporate tax. You can find out whether you qualify with your estate agent.

10. What’s Adjacent to the Property?

It’s also worth paying attention to what’s surrounding your potential commercial premises. For instance, if you’re purchasing a retail space, you want to make sure that you’re not setting up right next to a direct competitor, but it’s also beneficial if the businesses around you are performing well as this may indicate your own success.

Similarly, you should consider how development projects and construction work nearby might impact your own business.

11. Are You Sure You’re Ready to Go Through With the Investment?

While there’s no such thing as a risk-free investment, it’s crucial that you weigh up the pros and cons of each commercial property you have your eye on so you can be certain that you’re making the right decision for your business.

On top of this, don’t be tempted to think that you’ll make a quick profit in the commercial property market. Unlike residential property, which can often appreciate rapidly in sought-after markets, commercial property is generally considered more of a slow burn, and its real value lies in its ability to generate steady rental income, tax advantages and the potential for redevelopment over time.

Book a Property Inspection with an Expert Structural Surveyor

Based in Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London, Simon Levy offer a comprehensive range of residential and commercial surveying services to help you make your commercial property purchase that much easier. Our team can perform a full property inspection before providing expert advice on any maintenance issues that might require costly repairs down the line, saving you money and time in the long run.

To discuss your commercial surveying needs, please get in touch with us.

What Is Listed Building Consent and Why Do I Need It?

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 13:02:39 GMT

Securing planning permission for listed buildings can be a complex process, as these properties are protected for their historical and architectural significance. Understanding the regulations and requirements is essential to prevent delays or rejections. In this blog post, we provide essential planning permission guidance to help you prepare your application and ensure your project complies with all necessary regulations.

What Is a Listed Building?

A listed building is one protected for its special historical or architectural significance. They fall into three categories: Grade I (buildings of exceptional interest), Grade II* (buildings of more than special interest and of particular importance) and Grade II (buildings of national importance).

Owning a listed building comes with specific responsibilities. These include needing a listed building consent before making internal and external alterations to your property. Failure to obtain consent can result in legal action, such as being required to reverse any unauthorised changes.

Listed Building Consent

Listed building consent is required for any work that alters the character of a listed building, including changes to windows, doors, roofing or architectural features. Applications should include detailed descriptions, drawings and photographs of the proposed work, as well as a heritage statement outlining the historical significance of the property.

Consulting with your LPA’s conservation officer during the early planning stages can be invaluable. They may offer insights on meeting your needs and the preservation requirements.

Planning Application Advice

Before submitting a planning application, it’s crucial to consult your local planning authority (LPA). They can provide planning application advice tailored to your property and its listed status. Most modifications, even minor ones, will require listed building consent, separate from standard planning permission.

Ensure your application is well-prepared, including detailed plans and a heritage impact assessment. These documents should demonstrate how your changes will preserve the building’s historic character. Accurate and thorough submissions increase the likelihood of approval.

Planning Permission Appeal

If your application is refused, you can file a planning permission appeal with the Planning Inspectorate. Rejections are often caused by concerns about the potential impact on the building’s historical integrity or insufficient details in the application.

Address any issues outlined in the refusal and consider improving your heritage assessment and adding additional supporting documentation. The appeal process can take several months, so it’s important to remain patient and ensure your application is well-supported with expert advice.

Planning Permission Guidance for Listed Buildings

Successfully securing planning permission or listed building consent requires careful preparation. To improve your chances, it’s important to consult professional advice. Early communication with your local planning authority (LPA) is essential to ensure you understand the specific permissions required for your property.

Preparing detailed applications, including comprehensive plans and heritage assessments, is crucial. While the process can be lengthy, patience and thorough preparation will improve your chances of success.

For expert planning permission guidance and planning application advice to help you secure the permission you need to conduct renovations to your listed property, get in touch with Simon Levy Associates .

What Is Involved in an Industrial Building Survey?

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 13:01:36 GMT

Surveying industrial or warehouse buildings requires specialised expertise to assess the property’s condition and ensure it meets safety and operational standards for use. Whether purchasing or managing these properties, partnering with a commercial surveying professional is crucial to understanding the condition of your facilities.

Read on to learn more about industrial building surveys, including their key components, and discover critical property advice from Simon Levy Associates, a firm of expert chartered surveyors.

The Purpose of Commercial Surveys

Commercial surveys are designed to inspect a building’s condition, identify risks and ensure it complies with legal regulations. Chartered surveyors are qualified to carry out these thorough inspections, evaluating the facility's safety regulations and structural integrity and identifying any potential issues that could affect the property’s value or operational use.

This information is crucial for property owners to make management decisions regarding maintenance or repair work or help potential buyers decide whether the property is a worthwhile investment.

The Key Components of a Survey

A commercial survey will look at many different aspects of the property to check its condition and suitability. Let’s take a look at some of the key components:

● Structural Integrity: Chartered surveyors assess the property’s foundations and walls for signs of damage, wear or any potential risks that could compromise the building’s safety and usability.

● Roof Condition: The condition of a warehouse’s roof is critical to maintaining products and equipment clean and dry. Surveyors will look for any leaks, insulation issues or weaknesses that may require repairs.

● Utility Systems: Drainage systems, plumbing, heating, ventilation and fire safety systems will be inspected to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.

● Floor Load Capacity: Surveyors will identify whether the floors can safely support heavy machinery or goods, which are vital in warehouse settings.

● Environmental Compliance: Surveyors will inspect the warehouse’s energy efficiency and waste disposal system to evaluate its environmental impact, ensuring it meets legal standards.

Preparing For a Survey

In preparation for an industrial survey, the buyer or property owner should review the warehouse’s maintenance history, identify current or existing problems and make areas accessible for inspection.

Why Choose Chartered Surveyors?

Chartered surveyors, regulated by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), deliver reliable commercial surveying services, ensuring your property meets all structural, legal and environmental standards. By hiring a chartered surveyor, you’ll receive expert property advice that protects your investment.

Simon Levy Associates

At Simon Levy Associates, we pride ourselves on being the best chartered surveyors for your commercial property needs. Our team specialises in commercial surveying, offering expert property advice that helps our clients make informed decisions.

Whether you're renting, managing or considering investing in industrial and commercial spaces, we work closely with you to provide detailed and reliable surveys that ensure your property meets all necessary requirements. To book a commercial survey, contact us online today.

Understanding the Difference Between a Level 2 and Level 3 Property Survey

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 13:00:45 GMT

If you’re looking to buy a home or are in the process of purchasing a property, you’ve likely heard terms like Level 2 Survey and Level 3 Survey, and you may be wondering what they refer to. These are two of the most common property surveys used in the UK, each offering different levels of detail. Understanding their differences is essential to know which survey suits your needs.

This blog post will delve into both surveys, helping you understand what each one entails so you can decide which is the right choice for your property.

The Level 2 Property Survey

The RICS Level 2 Home Survey, often referred to as the HomeBuyer Report, is a mid-level property inspection that suits the majority of homes in reasonable condition. This property survey provides a general overview of the home's condition, highlighting any significant problems such as damp or subsidence.

A building surveyor inspects easily accessible parts of the property, using a traffic light rating system to categorise issues into three levels of severity: green for no repair needed, orange for attention needed soon and red for immediate repair required. While the survey identifies where any problems are, it does not provide a detailed analysis of the structure or give guidance on the necessary repair work.

The Level 3 Property Survey

The Level 3 Building Survey, also known as a full house survey, is the most comprehensive inspection available and is typically geared towards older, larger or more complex properties. This survey provides a thorough analysis of the building’s structure, including hard-to-access areas like attics and basements.

A full house survey is suitable for properties in poor condition, those that have undergone significant alterations or buildings with unusual designs. This report gives a detailed assessment of any current or potential issues, including defects, and the extent of necessary repairs. It also offers advice on maintenance and repair methods, making it useful for buyers who plan on renovating or carrying out extensive work on the property.

Choosing the Right Property Survey

When deciding between a Level 2 and Level 3 survey, consider the type, age and condition of the property you are purchasing. If the property is relatively new or in good condition, a Level 2 survey is usually sufficient, offering a clear summary of any major issues without delving into structural concerns.

However, if you are purchasing an older or more complex building or one where you may carry out renovations, a Level 3 full house survey guarantees a comprehensive inspection. Although this survey is more expensive, it gives you a clear understanding of potential risks and the costs of repairs, offering greater peace of mind.

Simon Levy Associates – Your Trusted Building Surveyors

At Simon Levy Associates, we're experienced chartered building surveyors who provide thorough property surveys and expert advice. Whether you require a Level 2 or Level 3 property survey, our team will guide you through the process, helping you make informed decisions about your property purchase to ensure your investment is secure. For more information, get in touch with Simon Levy Associates today!

The Top 5 Most Common Property Disputes and Resolutions

Wed, 02 Oct 2024 12:59:50 GMT

Often, having close neighbours creates a warm and friendly community that you can feel a part of. But it can also lead to challenges, especially when it comes to property disputes. Knowing how to address these issues is essential for maintaining the peace. Read on to discover some of the most common property disputes and our advice on how to resolve them.

Boundary Disputes

Boundary disputes are among the most frequent property conflicts. Often, disagreements occur when property lines are unclear, leading to conflict over who owns certain parts of land. Checking property deeds or consulting a land registry is a good starting point. Alternatively, bringing in a surveyor can help establish ownership and take legal action if an agreement is not reached.

Party Wall Disputes

Party wall disputes often create property disputes, especially when shared structures, like walls or fences, need repair work. Under the Party Wall Act 1996, property owners must serve a notice if they plan to make any changes to a shared structure.

If neighbours disagree, chartered surveyors are often brought in to help mediate the situation, providing dispute advice to all parties involved. Failure to comply with this act can lead to further legal consequences, so seeking expert advice is essential.

Overhanging Trees

Overhanging trees can also cause upset between neighbours. If tree branches from one property hang into another, it is legally considered a trespass. If possible, politely ask your neighbour to cut back any overhanging branches to resolve the issue amicably. However, if the neighbour refuses, UK law allows the affected neighbour to trim the branches back to the boundary line so long as they don’t enter the neighbour’s property without permission.

Noisy Neighbours

Excessive noise is a common form of nuisance and one of the toughest to deal with. When neighbours regularly play loud music or have dogs that bark persistently, it can have a significant impact on your quality of life. The first step should be to communicate directly with the neighbour. If the problem persists, you can contact the local council, who will issue a noise abatement order.

Obstructed Rights of Way

A blocked right of way can be a considerable problem when it prevents homeowners from accessing their property. As these paths should remain clear, blocking them constitutes an infringement of property rights. If a neighbour is obstructing your right of way, first try to resolve the matter directly by indicating where the boundaries of your right of way lie. Should that fail, dispute advice may resolve the issue.

Seeking Dispute Advice

When dealing with complex property issues, like boundary or party wall matters , it’s often best to seek professional dispute advice. Chartered surveyors can help mediate property disputes, ensuring both parties' interests are protected.

At Simon Levy Associates, we offer expert guidance on all types of property disputes, helping clients navigate difficult situations with confidence. If you are seeking advice about a property dispute in Borehamwood or Greater London, get in touch with our chartered surveyors today.

Frequently Asked Questions About Property Surveys Answered

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 08:58:55 GMT

As a common part of buying a new home or premises, property surveys can be useful for prospective buyers, helping them to learn more about the place they’re considering purchasing. It’s natural, therefore, to have questions about what property surveys are, and how they can help you. In this article from Simon Levy Associates, you can discover the answers to some of the most common questions related to property surveys.

What is a property survey?

A property survey refers to any survey that is carried out to identify issues within a property. Generally, these are conducted by chartered surveyors as experts, who can identify defects, risks and problems with the property’s structural integrity. Using this, considerations can be made as to whether the property is a worthwhile investment or as to how the repairs should be carried out.

Are there multiple types of property surveys?

In short, yes! Property surveys come in many forms, as each one is designed for a different purpose or created to best benefit a different audience. In this section, you can discover the types of property surveys that may be available to you. If you still feel unsure about which property survey you might need, feel free to reach out to our team at Simon Levy, who would be happy to provide advice, support and recommendations.

Condition Reports

Eager to learn more about the basics of your property? Condition Reports can give brief descriptions of a property’s features and faults, which is why these reports are often best used for newly built properties, rather than those that need large amounts of repair. Condition Reports are also typically used more often for domestic properties rather than commercial, so bear this in mind if you’re considering a property survey.

HomeBuyer Reports

One of the more popular types of property surveys, HomeBuyer Reports is commonly used by homeowners and prospective buyers to learn more about the condition of a specific property in a non-intrusive manner. The surveyor will look around the visible areas of a property, giving an overview of any serious problems that have been detected. Typically, these are used for contemporary properties in relatively good condition.

Full Building Surveys

As the most detailed type of property survey, Full Building Surveys are the most thorough example of a property survey. It’s most common to get a Full Building Survey for properties that have special features or are particularly old and/or large. These surveys help to provide prospective buyers with a full understanding of a property, helping to uncover unseen risks that may be hiding beneath the surface.

What is included in a property survey?

While the different types of property surveys will generally include different checks as part of their service, it can be helpful to know a bit more about what may be inspected. Knowing that a particular problem area will be inspected can put your mind at ease, especially if you’ve had issues in that particular area before. Read on to find out which areas may be checked and why.

Roof

Inspections for the topmost part of a property are carried out as part of some property surveys, due to the risks and problems that can be discovered in this area. In some cases, a roof inspection may be recommended, depending on the overall condition of the property or the roof specifically.

Some potential problems in or around the roof that can be identified by specialists include:

● Instability

● Pooling

● Asbestos

● Leaks

● Problems with the tiles

Structure

Another area of a property that may be inspected during a property survey is the structure. Typically, this will always include a visual inspection, detecting problems such as dampness or cracks. Often, these visual issues can indicate further problems have arisen, such as subsidence or leaks. As a vitally important part of any property, an inspection carried out by specialists can provide the owner or prospective buyer with the knowledge they need to resolve the problems.

Bathroom Fittings

During certain property surveys, the surveyor may inspect the bathroom fittings installed within the property. This is because the plumbing found within the property can become damaged or present existing issues. Unchecked, plumbing problems can lead to major leaks and water damage, making them an essential area for thorough inspections.

Other Features

Some properties may have unusual features, which still need to be checked over during a property survey. A thorough inspection should include these unusual features, including fireplaces, to help the property owner or buyer understand a bit more about the condition of the feature and how it is impacting the rest of the property.

If you’re considering paying for a property survey, it’s important to first ensure the level of inspection is suitable for the property and your needs. If you feel unsure of which survey you might need, speak to our professionals at Simon Levy, who can provide you with top-quality advice.

Which types of properties can be surveyed?

Property surveys can be used to inspect the condition of both commercial and domestic buildings, making them versatile and highly applicable services. Domestic and commercial properties are surveyed to establish whether they’re safe to use for their intended purpose and whether they might cause harm to any new residents because of existing or ongoing faults.

When might I need a structural survey?

Generally, there are two main occasions on which you might want to order a structural property survey. In this section, you can discover when you might want a structural survey and why it may be beneficial during that particular time.

Before Buying a Property

For prospective property owners, it’s a great idea to make sure that the property they would like to purchase is a worthwhile and sensible investment. To give them an idea of what might be hidden beneath the visible surface of a home, many prospective buyers choose to opt for structural surveys. In doing so, they can get a realistic idea of the property’s true condition, allowing them to weigh up the benefits of a purchase.

Before Making Changes to Your Property

Contrastingly, many property owners use structural surveys to discover more about their existing buildings. Often these can be carried out if major changes are to be made to a property, such as an extension or renovation. A structural survey can let the property owner know if the structure can support the proposed change, helping to ensure that work can go ahead safely.

What are the benefits of getting a property survey?

If you’re considering ordering a property survey, it can be helpful to learn a bit more about the benefits of their use. By learning more, you can more accurately understand where a property survey might be right for your needs. Read on to find out the key benefits below.

Provides Repair Estimates

Occasionally, the right property for you might need some work first. By getting a property survey, you can learn more about the extent of damage in a property, helping to provide you with an idea of what the repairs may be. With this information, you can then work out the extra costs you may need to pay, helping you to decide whether the investment is a sensible idea.

Reduces Future Risk

While many issues might not be apparent currently, there may be some risks around your property that can result in later issues. Tree roots, for example, can often grow beneath your property if positioned too close to the building, resulting in major problems such as subsidence. During a property survey, a surveyor will be able to make a report of features that may become a problem if left unchecked, helping you to guard against future issues.

Who should I contact for a property survey?

From commercial surveying to full house surveys, Simon Levy Associates has a range of property surveys to ensure your prospective or existing property is in top shape. As experienced chartered surveyors, we have the expertise needed to thoroughly investigate the condition of a property and to produce an accurate survey report as a result. Please visit our website to learn more about us at Simon Levy Associates or get in touch with our team directly for further advice or support.

What Is Included in a Dilapidation Report?

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 08:57:35 GMT

At Simon Levy Associates, we are frequently asked about dilapidation reports, particularly by property managers, landlords and tenants who want to understand the condition of a property before or after a lease term. A dilapidation report is a vital document that details the state of a building, highlighting any potential repairs or maintenance issues. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of what’s included in a dilapidation report, and why it’s crucial to conduct a thorough dilapidation inspection.

What Is a Dilapidation Report?

A dilapidation report, also known as a schedule of dilapidations, is a detailed record of a property’s condition at a specific point in time. It is commonly prepared by a chartered building surveyor during a dilapidation inspection. This report is typically requested by landlords or tenants to ensure that the property is maintained according to the lease agreement’s stipulations. At the end of a tenancy, it helps determine whether the tenant has met their obligations regarding property repairs and maintenance.

Key Elements of a Dilapidation Report

A dilapidation report includes several crucial components that provide a comprehensive overview of the property’s condition:

Property Description

The report begins with a detailed description of the property. This includes the address, size, and any significant features that define the building. Accurate documentation of these details is essential for reference purposes.

Photographic Evidence

High-resolution photographs accompany the written observations in the report. These images are crucial for visually capturing the condition of various parts of the property, including walls, ceilings, floors, windows, and external areas. Photographs provide indisputable evidence of any existing damage or areas of concern.

Schedule of Condition

This section lists all observed defects, damages, or maintenance issues, categorised by severity. It includes everything from minor wear and tear to more significant structural issues. Each item is typically linked to the corresponding photographic evidence, making it easy to identify the specific location and nature of the problem.

Assessment of Lease Obligations

The report assesses the tenant’s compliance with the lease terms, particularly concerning property maintenance and repairs. It identifies any breaches, such as unaddressed repairs or alterations made without permission, which may require rectification before the lease ends or before a new one can begin.

Recommendations for Repairs

Based on the findings, the report will often include recommendations for necessary repairs or maintenance. These suggestions ensure that the property remains in good condition and complies with any lease obligations. For tenants, this can help avoid disputes at the end of the lease.

Why Is a Dilapidation Inspection Important?

Conducting a dilapidation inspection is crucial for both landlords and tenants. For landlords, it ensures that the property is returned in a condition that meets the lease’s requirements, protecting their investment. For tenants, it helps avoid potential disputes and unexpected costs at the end of the lease term by clearly outlining their responsibilities.

Whether you’re a landlord needing to protect your property or a tenant ensuring you fulfil your lease obligations, Simon Levy Associates can provide the professional dilapidation services you need. Contact us today to schedule a dilapidation inspection or to learn more about our comprehensive building surveying services.

The Role of Contract Administration in Ensuring Project Success

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 08:56:33 GMT

Effective contract administration is the backbone of successful project management, particularly in construction applications. At Simon Levy Associates, our role as chartered building surveyors extends far beyond simple oversight; it encompasses comprehensive contract administration services that ensure projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the highest standards. Here’s a closer look at why contract administration is crucial for project success and how our project management services can make a difference.

Ensuring Compliance with Contractual Obligations

Contract administration is pivotal in managing and monitoring compliance with contractual obligations. For any construction project, the contract outlines the scope, deadlines, costs, and quality expectations. Our team meticulously oversees these aspects, ensuring that every party involved adheres to the agreed terms. By handling these complexities with precision, we mitigate risks related to non-compliance and help prevent potential disputes.

Streamlining Communication and Documentation

One of the key functions of effective contract administration is maintaining clear and consistent communication among all stakeholders. From contractors and suppliers to clients and project managers, having a centralised point of contact helps streamline the exchange of information. At Simon Levy Associates, our contract administration services facilitate this process by managing all necessary documentation, ensuring that everyone is on the same page, which significantly reduces the likelihood of misunderstandings and errors.

Monitoring Project Progress and Performance

Monitoring the progress of a project is another critical aspect of contract administration. Our project management services involve regular inspections and assessments to ensure that work is proceeding according to the contract’s stipulations. This proactive approach allows us to identify any deviations from the project plan early and address them before they escalate into major issues. Our team’s expertise ensures that projects stay on track, avoiding delays and additional costs.

Handling Changes and Variations Efficiently

Changes and variations are inevitable in most construction projects. Effective contract administration provides a structured approach to managing these alterations. Our team is adept at evaluating the implications of changes, negotiating amendments, and ensuring that any modifications are documented accurately. By handling these aspects efficiently, we ensure that the project remains aligned with the client’s objectives while controlling costs and timelines.

Resolving Disputes and Claims

Disputes and claims can arise during any project, and having a robust contract administration process in place is crucial for resolving these issues promptly. At Simon Levy Associates, our contract administration services include managing and resolving conflicts through clear communication and thorough documentation. Our goal is to address any disputes swiftly to minimise their impact on the overall project and maintain a positive working environment.

Contract administration is a fundamental component of successful project management, ensuring that all aspects of a project run smoothly from start to finish. At Simon Levy Associates, we pride ourselves on offering expert contract administration services that support project success and client satisfaction. Our dedicated team of building surveyors in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London is committed to delivering exceptional project management services tailored to your needs.

For expert guidance and comprehensive support in contract administration, contact us today. Let us help you navigate the complexities of your construction project with confidence and precision.

Navigating Construction Disputes: Effective Strategies for Resolution

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 08:55:41 GMT

Construction projects can be complex, with many moving parts. Even with the most detailed planning and robust contracts, disputes can arise, potentially causing delays, financial strain, and stress. As leading construction dispute consultants operating across Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, we are here to guide you through these challenges with expert construction dispute resolution and tailored construction dispute advice.

Understanding the Root Causes of Construction Disputes

Construction disputes often stem from a variety of issues, including contract disagreements, delays, variations in the scope of work, and payment disputes. Understanding the root cause is essential for resolving the conflict effectively. At Simon Levy Associates, we begin our process by conducting a thorough analysis of the situation. Our experienced team of construction dispute consultants reviews all relevant documentation, such as contracts, site reports, and communications, to identify the source of the dispute.

Choosing the Right Dispute Resolution Method

Once the cause of the dispute is identified, the next step is selecting the most appropriate resolution method. There are several avenues available, including negotiation, mediation, adjudication, and arbitration. The choice of method depends on the nature and complexity of the dispute, as well as the relationship between the parties involved.

Negotiation

This is often the first step in resolving a dispute. It involves direct discussions between the parties to reach a mutually agreeable solution. Our role is to facilitate these discussions and ensure that your interests are protected.

Mediation

If negotiation fails, mediation can be a more formal but still non-binding process. A neutral third party, the mediator, assists in guiding the discussions towards a resolution. We can represent you during mediation, providing expert advice and ensuring that the process is fair and balanced.

Adjudication

In cases where a quick resolution is needed, adjudication can be an effective solution. This process is often used in construction disputes and involves an adjudicator making a decision that is binding unless challenged within a specific period. Our extensive experience in adjudication ensures that we can provide strong representation for our clients.

Arbitration

For more complex disputes, arbitration may be appropriate. This process is similar to a court proceeding, where an arbitrator makes a binding decision. Our team has a deep understanding of the arbitration process and can guide you through it with confidence.

The Importance of Expert Construction Dispute Advice

Navigating a construction dispute without expert guidance can lead to costly mistakes and prolonged conflict. At Simon Levy Associates, we pride ourselves on providing comprehensive construction dispute advice tailored to your specific circumstances. Our team’s expertise in building surveying and construction law ensures that we can offer practical, solution-oriented advice that minimises disruption and helps you achieve a favourable outcome.

If you are facing a construction dispute, do not leave the outcome to chance. Simon Levy Associates is here to provide you with the expert advice and representation you need to resolve the issue efficiently and effectively. With years of experience serving clients across Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, we are your trusted partner in navigating construction disputes.

Contact us today to discuss your situation and learn how we can assist you in resolving your construction dispute. Let us help you find the best path forward, so you can focus on what matters most—completing your project successfully.

How to Strengthen Your Planning Application

Wed, 04 Sep 2024 08:54:27 GMT

At Simon Levy Associates, we understand that navigating the complexities of a planning application can be challenging. With our extensive experience as chartered building surveyors serving Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, we are well-positioned to offer valuable planning application advice that can make a significant difference to your project’s success. Here’s how you can strengthen your planning application and improve your chances of obtaining that crucial planning permission.

Understand Local Planning Policies

Before you submit your planning application, it’s essential to familiarise yourself with local planning policies. Each area has its own set of guidelines and restrictions, which can impact the approval of your application. Ensure that your proposal aligns with these policies to avoid unnecessary delays or rejections. Our team at Simon Levy Associates can help you navigate these regulations effectively, providing you with the property advice needed to tailor your application accordingly.

Provide Comprehensive Documentation

A well-prepared planning application includes detailed and accurate documentation. This should include site plans, elevations, and design and access statements that clearly articulate the scope and impact of your proposed development. Ensuring that all documents are thorough and professionally prepared will not only enhance your application but also reduce the likelihood of queries or objections from the planning authority.

Address Potential Issues Early

Anticipating and addressing potential issues before submitting your application can prevent problems down the line. Common concerns include the impact on neighbouring properties, the design’s fit within the local context, and potential environmental effects. By identifying these concerns early, you can provide mitigating solutions in your application, demonstrating to the planning authority that you have considered all aspects of your project.

Engage with the Community

Community engagement can play a crucial role in the success of your planning application. If your project may affect local residents or businesses, consider consulting with them early in the process. Addressing their concerns and incorporating their feedback can lead to fewer objections and a smoother approval process. Our team is adept at offering planning application advice that includes strategies for effective community engagement.

Prepare for a Planning Permission Appeal

In the event that your application is refused, it’s important to be prepared for a planning permission appeal. Understanding the reasons behind the refusal and addressing them directly in your appeal is crucial. We can assist you in this process by providing expert guidance on how to present your case convincingly and increase your chances of a successful appeal.

Seek Professional Help

Finally, seeking professional help from our team of chartered building surveyors can make a significant difference. Our expertise in property advice and planning applications ensures that your application is well-prepared, compliant with local regulations, and strategically sound. We offer a range of services to support you through the planning process, from initial advice to managing appeals.

If you’re preparing a planning application and need expert advice, Simon Levy Associates is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and ensure your application stands the best chance of success. Our team of experienced professionals is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the process.

Party Wall Disputes: Your Questions Answered

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:52:56 GMT

With over 9 million people living in the UK’s capital and an ever-increasing number of high-density developments, it’s no surprise that party wall issues are a common concern in London. Party wall disputes can be a daunting prospect for homeowners and property developers alike, and is a situation all are keen to avoid.

As experts in all things related party wall matters, here at Simon Levy Associates we get a lot of queries around this complex topic. That’s why, in this blog, we’ll be answering some of your most frequently asked questions to give you a better idea of the party wall agreement process and how to navigate a party wall dispute.

What is a Party Wall?

One of the most common questions we get is around what a party wall actually is. In simple terms, a party wall is a shared wall that separates the buildings of two different owners. This can include walls between semi-detached or terraced houses, as well as garden walls that straddle property boundaries. The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 governs any work that affects a party wall in order to ensure that both parties have their interests protected.

What is the Party Wall etc. Act 1996?

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes related to party walls, boundary walls and excavations near neighbouring buildings. The Act outlines the rights and responsibilities of property owners, as well as procedures for notifying neighbours and resolving disagreements.

When Do I Need a Party Wall Agreement?

You will need a party wall agreement if you plan to carry out any of the following work:

● Building on or at the boundary of your property

● Working on an existing party wall or structure

● Excavating near a neighbouring property

Some common projects that you’ll need a party wall agreement for include loft conversions, extensions and basement excavations.

How Do I Serve a Party Wall Notice?

If your planned work falls in line with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, you must serve a party wall notice to your neighbour. The notice should include details about the work you intend to carry out, the start date and your contact information. It’s important to serve this notice at least two months before starting work on a party wall, or one month for excavations. After it’s been served, your neighbour then has 14 days to respond.

What Happens If My Neighbour Disagrees?

If your neighbour disagrees with the proposed work, they must find a party wall surveyor to represent them. You in turn will also need to appoint your own surveyor. These surveyors will then work together to draw up a Party Wall Award, which is a legal document that details the work to be carried out, how and when it will be done and any necessary protective measures that need to be taken.

If both parties agree, they can appoint a single surveyor - known as the agreed surveyor - to handle the party wall matter. Doing so can simplify the process and potentially reduce costs.

What Does a Party Wall Surveyor Do?

The party wall surveyor plays a key role in managing disputes and making sure that the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is adhered to. Their responsibilities include:

● Preparing and serving notices

● Conducting a schedule of condition

● Drafting the Party Wall Award

● Resolving disputes impartially

What is a Party Wall Award?

A Party Wall Award is a legal document that sets out the rights and responsibilities of both parties involved in the dispute. It includes:

● Details of the proposed work

● A schedule of condition of the adjoining property (to record its condition before work starts)

● Working hours and access arrangements

● Measures to protect the adjoining property

● Compensation for any damage caused

The Party Wall Award confirms that both parties are protected and that the work is carried out in accordance with the law.

What Are the Costs Involved?

The costs associated with party wall matters can vary depending on the complexity of the project and the number of surveyors involved. Generally, the building owner undertaking the work is responsible for covering the costs of both surveyors. This includes the cost of serving the party wall notice, preparing the Party Wall Award and any additional inspections required.

How Long Does the Process Take?

The timeline for resolving party wall disputes depends on several factors, including the response time of your neighbour and the extent of the proposed work. On average, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. It's essential to factor this into your project timeline to avoid delays.

Why Do Party Wall Disputes Arise?

Party wall disputes can arise for various reasons, including:

● Lack of communication: Having a clear and timely discussion with your neighbour can help prevent misunderstandings.

● Insufficient notice: Serving the correct notice well in advance is crucial to allowing your neighbour sufficient time to respond.

● Disagreement on surveyor: Sometimes, neighbours may disagree on the choice of surveyor, which can make the situation worse.

How Can I Avoid the Risk of a Party Wall Dispute?

Here are some tips to help you avoid getting into a party wall dispute:

● Communicate Early: Make your neighbours aware of your plans as early as possible. Clear communication can help address any concerns they may have.

● Follow the Legal Process: Make sure that you comply with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 by serving the correct notices and obtaining the necessary agreements.

● Choose the Right Professionals: Hiring experienced party wall surveyors can help you navigate the process smoothly.

● Document Everything: Keep detailed records of all communication and agreements with your neighbours and surveyors.

How Can Simon Levy Help?

At Simon Levy, we have extensive experience in managing party wall matters. Our team of qualified party wall surveyors can guide you through every step of the process, from serving the initial notice to finalising the Party Wall Award. We provide impartial and professional advice to ensure that your project complies with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and that your interests are safeguarded.

If you are planning a construction project that may affect a party wall, or if you are currently facing a party wall dispute, don’t hesitate to get in touch with Simon Levy for more information today.

Understanding the Planning Permission Appeal Process

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:51:57 GMT

Planning permission can be a complex and often frustrating hurdle for many property developers and homeowners. If your planning application has been refused, understanding the planning permission appeal process is crucial.

At Simon Levy Associates, we provide expert planning application advice and comprehensive planning permission help to guide you through this challenging process. Read on below for more insight.

Why Planning Applications Get Refused

There are numerous reasons why a planning application might be refused:

● Non-compliance with Local Plans: Local planning authorities have specific guidelines and objectives that your proposal must meet.

● Environmental Concerns: Issues such as impact on local wildlife, green belt policies or flood risk areas.

● Design and Aesthetics: If the proposed development is deemed out of character with the surrounding area.

● Neighbour Objections: Concerns from neighbouring properties regarding overshadowing, loss of privacy or increased traffic.

Understanding these reasons can help you address potential issues before submitting your application, but if you find yourself needing to appeal, here’s how to proceed.

The Planning Permission Appeal Process

1. Review the Decision Notice:

○ The decision notice from the local planning authority (LPA) will detail why your application was refused.

○ Carefully review these reasons to understand the specific objections.

2. Consult with Experts:

○ Seek planning application advice from professionals. At Simon Levy Associates, our team can provide valuable insights and identify ways to strengthen your appeal.

○ Our experience in handling planning matters ensures that we can offer tailored advice to meet your needs.

3. Prepare Your Appeal:

○ Your appeal should address each reason for refusal in detail, providing evidence and arguments to counter the LPA’s concerns.

○ Include any new information or changes to the proposal that mitigate the reasons for refusal.

4. Submit Your Appeal:

○ Appeals are submitted to the Planning Inspectorate, an independent body.

○ Ensure that all required documents and evidence are included to avoid delays.

5. The Appeal Decision:

○ The Planning Inspectorate will review your appeal and may visit the site.

○ A decision will be made to uphold or overturn the LPA’s refusal.

Common Pitfalls in the Appeal Process

One of the most common pitfalls in the planning permission appeal process is submitting incomplete documentation. Every piece of evidence and supporting document must be included to ensure the appeal is considered.

Ignoring professional advice is another significant mistake. Expert guidance can dramatically improve the chances of a successful appeal by providing tailored strategies and insights.

Additionally, missing deadlines is a critical error; appeals must be filed within a strict time frame, usually within six months of the decision notice. Ensuring timely submission is essential for the process to proceed smoothly.

How Simon Levy Associates Can Help

Simon Levy Associates offers comprehensive support throughout the planning permission appeal process. Our team reviews your initial application to identify and mitigate potential issues before submission

In preparing your appeal, we’ll address all points of refusal with detailed evidence and professional insights, enhancing the robustness of your case. We can represent you at appeal hearings, offering professional advocacy and significantly increasing the likelihood of a favourable outcome. Our specialised knowledge and experience provides invaluable support, guiding you through each step of the process to help you achieve your development goals.

Get in Touch

Navigating the planning permission appeal process can be daunting, but with the right support, you can turn a refusal into an approval. At Simon Levy Associates, we are committed to helping you achieve your development goals.

If you need expert planning permission help or planning application advice, get in touch with us today and let us help you make your development dreams a reality.

Top Strategies for Settling Property Disputes Amicably

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:50:27 GMT

Property disputes can be complex and stressful, but settling them amicably is often the best approach.

At Simon Levy Associates, a leading firm of chartered surveyors in Borehamwood, we have extensive experience in helping clients navigate these challenges. Here are our top strategies for resolving property disputes without conflict.

Clear Communication

Clear communication is the cornerstone of resolving any dispute. Engaging in open, honest and transparent discussions with all parties involved can prevent misunderstandings and build trust. Setting clear expectations about what each party wants and anticipates from the resolution process helps to avoid surprises or unmet expectations later on.

Mediation

Mediation involves hiring a neutral third-party mediator who facilitates discussions between disputing parties. This mediator helps create a structured process where each party can present their case and negotiate terms, leading to a mutually beneficial agreement. Mediation is often faster and less adversarial than court proceedings, making it a preferred choice for many.

Being open to compromise is essential in resolving disputes amicably. Recognising that both parties may need to make concessions facilitates a faster and more peaceful resolution. Sometimes, creative solutions can be found that satisfy both parties' interests, emphasising the importance of flexibility.

Expert Consultation

Engaging a property disputes specialist, such as a construction claims expert, can provide an unbiased assessment of the issues at hand. These experts bring clarity to technical details and support fair resolutions. Professional reports from chartered surveyors are invaluable, serving as objective evidence and support during negotiations.

Furthermore, understanding the legal framework surrounding property disputes is crucial. Consulting a solicitor who specialises in property law can provide insights into your rights and obligations, helping to prevent escalation to court. Settling disputes before they reach litigation is advisable, as legal proceedings can be both costly and time-consuming.

Documentation

Maintaining detailed records of all communications, agreements and transactions related to the dispute is essential. These records can be invaluable if the dispute progresses to legal action. Ensuring all agreements are clearly documented in written contracts, signed by all parties, helps solidify understandings and commitments.

Use of Technology

Utilising technology can streamline the resolution process. Virtual meetings facilitate discussions, especially when parties are geographically dispersed, saving time and resources. Digital records and project management software can track progress and manage documents efficiently, ensuring all information is readily accessible.

Property Dispute Experts

Resolving property disputes amicably requires a blend of clear communication, professional expertise and a willingness to compromise. At Simon Levy Associates, our team of experienced chartered surveyors and construction claims experts is dedicated to helping you navigate these challenges with ease.

For expert guidance on property disputes, contact us today and take the first step towards a peaceful resolution.

Buying a Home vs a Commercial Property: How it Differs

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 13:49:31 GMT

When contemplating purchasing a property, it's crucial to understand the distinctions between buying a home and a commercial property. Both types of investments come with unique challenges and opportunities, especially in the realms of property survey and property advice.

As experts in commercial surveying, read on as we offer valuable insights into these differences.

Purpose and Use

Residential Property

Primarily for personal use, providing living space for you and your family. The emotional investment is significant and decisions often hinge on personal preferences, lifestyle and family needs.

Commercial Property

Purchased for business purposes. This can range from office spaces and retail units to industrial warehouses. The focus is on the potential for income generation, tenant relationships and business operations.

Financial Considerations

Residential Property

○ Mortgages: Typically easier to obtain, with lower interest rates and longer repayment terms.

○ Expenses: Includes maintenance, property taxes and insurance. The financial risk is usually lower, but returns are also modest.

Commercial Property

○ Financing: Often requires larger down payments, higher interest rates and shorter loan terms.

○ Operating Costs: Includes property management, commercial insurance and higher maintenance costs. However, the potential returns are higher due to rental income and capital appreciation.

Legal and Regulatory Framework

Residential Property

Governed by laws protecting homebuyers, including consumer rights and mortgage regulations. The process is relatively straightforward, with standardised contracts and protections.

Commercial Property

More complex legal landscape involving zoning laws, building codes and lease agreements. Buyers must navigate intricate legalities and often require specialised property advice and commercial surveying to ensure compliance and assess risks.

Property Survey and Assessment

Residential Property

A home survey typically includes checking for structural integrity, dampness and essential repairs. It's focused on ensuring the safety and suitability for living, as well as insight into the accuracy of the asking price.

Commercial Property

Commercial surveying involves a more detailed examination, including structural analysis, environmental assessments and compliance with health and safety regulations. This is crucial for understanding the property's potential for business use and avoiding costly liabilities.

Market Dynamics

Residential Property

Driven by factors such as location, neighbourhood amenities, school districts and market trends. Emotional factors and lifestyle preferences significantly influence demand.

Commercial Property

Influenced by economic conditions, business growth and industry-specific trends. The demand is driven by factors like foot traffic for retail spaces, logistical efficiency for warehouses and accessibility for office spaces.

Get in Touch

Whether you are buying a home or a commercial property, understanding these fundamental differences is crucial. Each type of property requires specific considerations in terms of finance, legalities and property surveys .

By understanding these distinctions, you can navigate the complexities of property investment more effectively. For expert property advice and comprehensive property survey services, Simon Levy Associates in Borehamwood are your trusted partners.

Get in touch with us today to discuss how we can help you.

Dos and Don’ts of Party Wall Alterations

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 09:09:29 GMT

If you share a wall with a neighbouring property, whether this be a wall within a terraced or semi-detached house or even a garden wall, then it’s important to note that you can’t just make alterations to this on a whim.

Because you share such a wall with your neighbours, you must first consult them if you wish to make certain changes to it. If you don’t, then you may find yourself facing legal actions. Keep reading to learn about some of the dos and don’ts of party wall matters .

The Dos

Do…

Inform your neighbour if you intend to carry out work on a boundary wall. For minor alterations, such as painting your side of the wall, hanging up shelves or replacing an electrical socket, then you do not need to inform them, as this isn’t impacting their side of the wall nor causing them any disruption.

However, you should inform them if you plan on:

● Building along the boundary

● Conducting major work on the party wall

● Digging close to or under the foundation level of their side of the property

Do…

Serve a notice in plenty of time before any work commences. You should aim to serve the formal written notice, known as a Party Wall Agreement, at least a couple of months before your planned work begins.

If you’ve spoken to your neighbour prior, then actioning the Party Wall Agreement shouldn’t be an issue; however, if they have expressed their contempt or you have not spoken to them verbally, then doing this as early on as possible is best.

The Don’ts

Don’t…

Exclusively tell them verbally. Whilst we recommend discussing your plans with them in person beforehand to check that they have no issues with your proposed plans, you should always write out a formal notice, also.

If you don’t give them a notice of the work, then they can seek a court injunction to stop you, even if they say that they have no issue with the work to you verbally. The only way to avoid this is by having a formal Party Wall Agreement in place.

Don’t…

Start any work before your neighbour has responded to the notice. Your neighbour has 14 days to respond on the acknowledgement form included with your formal notice, providing written approval or rejection of your plans.

If they approve the proposed plans, then your notice will be valid for a year to complete the work. If they reject or fail to respond within the 14-day window, then you will be in dispute, which must be resolved before any work can commence.

Party Wall Advice

If you find yourself in a party wall dispute or simply require advice on party wall matters, then look to us here at Simon Levy Associates.

Whether you require us to act on your behalf as the building owner or as the adjoining owner, our devoted team will be able to correctly advise you on your legal rights as a property owner and what your next steps are. Get in touch with us today.

The Importance of Complying with Planning Permission

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 09:08:36 GMT

When planning to undertake certain types of building works, whether that be new builds or on existing buildings, you are legally required to obtain planning permission. While this may seem like a trivial step, it actually holds a lot of importance, since it’s in place to ensure that your proposed development aligns with local policies, considers the impact on the surrounding areas and adheres to necessary safety standards.

Keep reading to learn more about why it’s so important to comply with planning permission regulations.

When is Planning Permission Required?

If you’re looking to build something new, make major changes to your building (e.g. build an extension) or change the use of your building, then you will require planning permission . There are a few exceptions to this, however; for example, you may not require planning permission for a single storey-home extension if it:

● Doesn’t cover more than 50% of the total land around the house

● Isn’t closer than two metres to a boundary line

● Uses materials that match the rest of the house

● Is less than three metres in size from the back of the house (four metres for detached houses)

It’s important to always check with your local planning authority (LPA) whether or not planning permission is required for your proposed development.

What Happens if You Don’t Get Planning Permission?

Obtaining planning permission is a legal requirement that you must comply with, unless your LPA has explicitly stated that your proposed development is exempt. If you do require planning permission but decide to proceed without it, then you will have committed what’s known as a planning breach.

In such an event you must submit a retrospective application as soon as possible. If this application fails or you fail to make it in the first place, then you will likely face an enforcement notice in order to remedy the breach you have committed.

This will detail why your development is in breach and list both the required steps that must be taken along with the timeframe that you must do this within.

This can be incredibly costly for you as a result. Furthemore, if you fail to comply with this and choose to instead ignore the enforcement notice or even continue with your development, then you may find yourself being taken to court.

Ensuring Compliance

Applying for planning permission can be a difficult and lengthy process, but one that is essential to comply with to avoid both financial and legal complications later down the line.

Thankfully, that’s where we come in. Here at Simon Levy Associates, we can offer you professional planning permission advice and guidance, whether that be submitting a planning application on your behalf, helping you with a planning permission appeal or helping you submit a retrospective application.

Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team today for property advice and assistance.

What Can a Construction Expert Witness Do for You?

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 09:07:46 GMT

If you’re involved in a property dispute that has been taken to court, then it can be helpful to seek an impartial expert opinion on the matter at hand so that all the facts are taken into account and the dispute resolved efficiently and accordingly.

Keep reading to learn more about what a construction expert is and what they can do for you.

What is a Construction Expert Witness?

The easier way to answer this question is to first define what an expert witness is. An expert witness refers to an individual who possesses enough level of specialised knowledge or skill in a particular field that qualifies them to present their objective opinion about the facts of a case during legal proceedings.

It’s important to distinguish that the evidence provided by an expert counts as opinion evidence, rather than evidence of fact. However, it should not be dismissed, as their expert opinion can help the court to understand the evidence of fact and must be uninfluenced by either party.

A construction expert witness , then, is someone with a vast understanding of the construction industry. They are able to provide supporting testimony in order to inform the judge or jury on issues related to construction law, so that they can use this to inform their final decision in regards to the case at hand.

Some of the issues they could comment on may include:

● Building delays

● Building codes

● Compliance with regulations

● Construction costs

● Construction defects

How Can They Help with Your Case?

It’s important to note that an expert witness must remain impartial when giving their genuine expert opinion in a case, so you should not expect them to blindly support your side or take on the role of an advocate. However, if you would like to seek a professional opinion on a dispute you’re involved with to better understand where you stand, then they can provide you with this.

This can save you from going into a case totally blind, which may even help lead to a settlement earlier on.

Construction expert witnesses may also be commissioned to disclose their opinion during the tribunal if your case is brought to court. They must prove their independence and their opinion can be dismissed if the judge or jury deems that their evidence is inadmissible due to a lack of proven independence. However, their evidence can ultimately help your case if you are in the right, as they are able to articulate the facts in a way that you may not have the expertise to do yourself.

Construction Claims Experts in Borehamwood

If you live in Greater London and find yourself in a property dispute, then look to us here at Simon Levy to provide our expert opinion on the matter and help you resolve your case efficiently.

With over 30 years of experience, we’re also a practising member of the Academy of Experts, which is why we’re so often commissioned as construction excerpt witnesses for property disputes.

Get in touch with us today to see how we can help you with yours.

Why First-Time Buyers Should Invest in a Property Survey

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 09:06:42 GMT

When you buy a new property, it’s essential that you’re confident in the property’s condition before you move in and don’t come across any major structural issues or other potential repairs that would ultimately be costly for you to remediate.

This is especially important as a first-time buyer, as you not only have less experience of the property market, but this is likely one of if not the largest investment you will be making in your life so far! Read on to learn more about what a property survey is and why it’s so important when buying your first home.

What is a Property Survey?

A property survey is a detailed assessment that inspects the condition of a property. It looks at various structural aspects of the property, determining whether anything is currently in need of repair or whether there are problems that are likely to need repairing in the future.

Different Types of Survey

There are different levels of property surveys that can be undertaken, ranging from the most basic to the most comprehensive of surveys. These include:

● Condition Survey (Level 1): These provide a very brief assessment of a property’s condition, therefore are best suited to new-build properties that appear to be in good condition.

● HomeBuyer Survey (Level 2): These provide a visual inspection of all areas that are reasonably accessible, however don’t go into detail on the structural integrity of a property.

● Full House Survey (Level 3): These are comprehensive assessments of both the general and structural condition of a property. This is the most thorough of all three surveys and is especially recommended for older properties.

Why Invest in One?

Many first-time buyers tend to overlook property surveys, opting to avoid arranging one with the hopes of saving money. However, this reasoning can actually backfire later down the line. If you move into your first home only to discover a couple months in that repairs are needed, then this can be costly for you to cover and can significantly impact your finances.

This situation can be avoided by instead investing in a property survey before you buy a property. By discovering any issues or potential problems with a property before you go ahead and sign the contract, then you can decide whether or not you want to go ahead with the purchase so as to avoid costly repairs later down the line that you may not be able to afford.

Pulling out altogether isn’t your only option, either. If repairs are needed, then you may request that these be completed before you move in or reasonably adjust your offer to lower the final price, so that you can then cover the costs of repairs yourself.

Qualified Structural Surveyors

Are you ready to buy your first home? Don’t forget to arrange your property survey, first! Here at Simon Levy Associates, we offer full house surveys and property inspections, helping you to avoid otherwise costly repairs right after you’ve bought your property.

With over 30 years of experience, you can count on us to carry out comprehensive and reliable surveys for your peace of mind. Get in touch with us today to arrange your survey.

Everything A Survey Can Reveal About Your Garden & Grounds

Wed, 10 Jul 2024 09:05:48 GMT

A domestic garden is a unique space that allows you to enjoy the wonders of nature without leaving the privacy of your own home. For larger properties, a simple backyard may expand into acres of land, where this private space can stretch over untamed fields or large swathes of cultivated vegetation. Whatever you’re working with, looking after your green space is a great way to boost the value and aesthetic appeal of your property.

It is important that your grounds are safe and accessible, especially if you’re looking to make changes to your property or if you’d like to sell. That’s where a property survey comes in, where these in-depth inspections can be used to gain an understanding of your site so you can move forward with all the necessary information to hand.

Building surveys are about much more than the interior of a property, where a comprehensive inspection will also cover an array of external areas. This can help you to gain a good understanding of what work needs to be done, as well as any hidden hazards that you need to be aware of.

Read on for a look at everything a property survey can reveal about your garden and grounds.

What Will An External Assessment Include?

When a surveyor carries out a complete assessment, they will consider a range of external features across the property. These will be inspected for faults, hazards and risk factors, where advice may be given on how to make these elements safer. Some key areas likely to be covered include:

Property Boundaries

Understanding your property’s boundaries is essential if you’re planning a building project in the near future. This is because you need to make sure that you’re not infringing on your neighbour’s land, where your surveyor can also check that your side of the boundary is safe and properly maintained. Gathering this information can be helpful if you’re challenged by a neighbour or if a legal proceeding is brought against you.

Entrance Points & Driveways

It is important to understand your legal rights when it comes to accessing your property, where a survey can reveal exactly where you should be driving, as well as where you’re allowed to build new access points. Your surveyor can also inspect the condition of your driveway, where they will look for potentially dangerous potholes or any drainage issues.

Geological Analysis

Your surveyor may examine your local Geological Survey map in order to gain a deeper understanding of your grounds. These maps can reveal a variety of geological details, including soil types, local mineral deposits and the condition of foundations. This information can help with assessing the risk of hazards such as floods, landslides and soil contamination.

Landscaping

Various landscaping features will be considered during a full property survey, including large trees, hedges and other forms of vegetation. A major aspect of this involves assessing whether trees are likely to pose a risk to life or to surrounding buildings in stormy weather, where your surveyor may recommend that you seek the support of a specialist tree surgeon.

External Utilities

A complete property survey will include an assessment of your building services and utilities, where this may cover external electrical infrastructure and gas installations. Beyond this, your surveyor will also take a look at your external plumbing, including soil pipes and drains, where any faults or blockages will be noted.

Outbuildings

Your surveyor may also be able to inspect key outbuildings, in addition to providing an internal inspection of your main property. This can include sheds, storage facilities and annexes, where these will be surveyed for potential structural issues, interior damp and drainage problems in the same way that a larger property would be considered.

How Can A Property Survey Help?

Enlisting the help of a property surveyor is essential for gaining a thorough understanding of your site, particularly if you’re managing large swathes of private land. Whether you’re looking to buy, redevelop or sell, a property survey can give you the facts you need to proceed in a cost effective and legitimate manner.

In addition to this, a property surveyor will produce a report containing all their recommendations for your site. When it comes to maintaining your grounds, examples may include trimming overhanging branches or resurfacing your driveway. These reports also tend to include cost estimates, where this is especially helpful if you’re looking to make an offer on a property or if you’d like to know how much to budget for renovations.

Keeping Your Grounds Safe

In addition to arranging a property inspection, there are numerous steps you can take to ensure that your grounds are safe. Some suggestions include:

Regular Maintenance

Neglected grounds can quickly become hazardous, especially if you’re dealing with copious vegetation. If you’re the owner of large swathes of land, you may need to enlist the help of a professional site management team to prevent trees and grasses from becoming overgrown. Low maintenance planting and areas of rewilding can also help you to stay on top of your site.

Reporting Damage

Being responsible for large areas of green space also means that it is your duty to report any damage to potentially hazardous infrastructure. If you have a pylon or telephone lines running across your site then you should keep note of any damages and report these to the proper authorities. Additionally, any drainage or plumbing problems should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further issues.

Flood Prevention

Another way that you can protect your property is to invest in flood prevention infrastructure. If your property is in a high risk area for flooding, then adding flood barriers can help to keep your site safe whilst preventing potentially costly damage. You should be able to check your flood risk online, or your property surveyor can provide you with detailed information about your land.

Repairing Storm Damage

In addition to reporting damage to external utilities, you should also stay on top of storm damage as it arises. This means clearing fallen branches or carrying out repairs to outbuildings. If necessary, you may need to enlist the help of a professional arborist to manage large trees. Carrying out this kind of work will allow you to mitigate hazards and keep your site accessible.

Understanding Boundaries

When managing a large site, it is important to be aware of your property boundaries. This means that you will have an understanding of where your maintenance responsibilities start and end, as well as a working knowledge of where you can build in future. This kind of knowledge is essential for avoiding any potential legal disputes and for understanding the needs of your property, where legally recorded boundaries may differ from those you’ve come to recognise.

Consult The Experts

Taking care of a large site can feel overwhelming, so it is important to seek expert advice whenever possible. This could be in the form of a landscaping or grounds maintenance team, where these professionals can also assist with pruning and tree surgery.

Beyond this, architects and engineers can help you to resolve drainage or flooding issues, which can allow you to reduce potential damages in the future. Additionally, specialist surveyors can be employed if you’re dealing with historical or listed buildings, where a more particular approach to repair work may be required.

Simon Levy: Comprehensive Property Surveys For Your Site

Whether you’re looking to buy a new home or you’re expanding a commercial property, undertaking a thorough building survey can help you to proceed with all the facts. At Simon Levy, our full house surveys cover all key external elements, including landscaping, boundaries and access points. Our experts will be able to identify any hazards across your site, where our report will contain essential recommendations for any repairs.

In addition to this, our property inspections include a detailed internal assessment. As such, our surveyors will be able to spot pertinent issues such as damp penetration and timber decay, where we can also conduct a general thermal performance test.

Get in touch with us today to find out more about our comprehensive building surveys.

A Quick Guide to Our Professional Services at Simon Levy

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:44:48 GMT

Based in Borehamwood, Simon Levy Associates is a company of chartered surveyors. We offer a range of professional services at our business, however, it can be beneficial to learn more about some of the most popular services before selecting our company. In this article, you will receive brief descriptions of just some of the services we offer, so read on to find out more.

Party Wall Disputes

Often, properties have shared walls. These are known simply as party walls. The shared nature means that each property owner needs to be respectful of one another when carrying out any work on said wall. Additionally, there are limitations and responsibilities enforced by The Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Our team can help you resolve any complex disputes and understand your duties as an owner of a shared wall.

Building Insurance Claims

From fires, floods and faulty foundations, lots of external factors can cause your property to become damaged. In this instance, making an insurance claim is key to obtaining the resources needed to repair your home once more. At Simon Levy, our damage experts can assist you with obtaining a successful claim.

Building Surveys

If you’re interested in securing a new property, it can be beneficial to seek out surveyance services beforehand. This will inform you of any issues that might occur, unseen by the eye while visiting a potential home. At Simon Levy, we have a team of experienced building surveyors who can help you understand more about your new home before purchasing it.

Planning Matters

Obtaining planning permission can be challenging, so it’s important to seek out a team of experts who can help you get the approval you need. On the other hand, perhaps you’d like to oppose planning permission that is being sought for an area close to your property. At Simon Levy Associates, we can provide you with guidance and recommendations for your chosen area, whether it’s getting your own planning request approved or disputing another’s request.

Construction Disputes

Arguments between a construction team and their customers can be messy and complicated. Whether over the quality of the work or the costs, sometimes the dispute can get out of hand, becoming difficult to resolve alone. Thankfully, our experts at Simon Levy can help you reach an agreement with our construction dispute service.

Dilapidation

As a tenant, it’s important to ensure that you are not financially responsible for any existing damage in your rented property, particularly if it wasn’t caused by you. A dilapidation report can be carried out to list any repairs that may be required to the property, keeping both tenant and landlord aware of the existing damage. Our team can expertly carry out a survey, supported by both photographic and written evidence.

Our Complete Services

While the above is a list of most of our professional services , our range of services extends to multiple building matters. Whether you’re looking to obtain scaffolding licences or you’re searching for a measurement survey, let our team of specialists at Simon Levy help you today. Please visit our website to learn more about us and our range of services, or contact us directly for further advice and support.

Commercial Surveying: Ensuring Your Property Won’t Go Under

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:40:47 GMT

As you look at moving your business into a new property, there are many things you need to consider. From location to square footage, choosing the right workspace is essential to a productive and successful new environment. However, some external factors can easily be overlooked in the process. Find out what these might be and how choosing a commercial surveying team can assist you, all within this article.

What is commercial surveying?

To ensure both a property and the land are right for commercial companies, commercial surveyors are often employed for their assistance. Commercial surveying is a great way to get an understanding of the true value of a property, either helping the owner to provide a fair price to buyers or for prospective businesses to select a property that won’t create further expensive problems.

The Benefits of Commercial Surveying

Commercial surveying is a popular service for a very good reason. The process itself can be incredibly beneficial for prospective buyers, letting them know about issues and other factors that might have gone undiscovered. Read on into this section to learn more.

Accurate Values

In many cases, you may be looking at costly potential properties. These might be out of your budget, preventing you from buying a new property for your staff and visitors to enjoy. Fortunately, you may discover that commercial surveying services provide a lessened value to the building due to problems within or outside of the property.

Prepares for Repairs

While the idea of carrying out repair work can seem daunting and something you’d like to avoid, it’s still work considering properties that appear to have issues. Some properties naturally deteriorate over time and will need repairing, yet have integral benefits that cannot be imitated. With commercial surveying, you can prepare to carry out repairs after purchasing the property, unlike encountering an unpleasant surprise.

Protects from Costly Surprises

Leading on from the benefit of preparing for repairs, getting a full understanding of the existing or potential problems in a property can help you budget for any later repairs. Costly surprises can lead to restricted budgets when you need that money the most, allowing your business to suffer financially. Instead, setting aside a realistic budget based on a professional survey report can be helpful, keeping your company from struggling.

Our Services

If you’re searching for the right commercial surveying company to help your business find the perfect property, look no further than the services offered by Simon Levy Associates. As chartered surveyors, we will use our expertise, built from over three decades of experience, to ensure any prospective building is right for your business needs. With us, you can expect high-quality and supportive property advice.

To learn more about our domestic and commercial surveying services , please visit the Simon Levy Associates website. Alternatively, please get in touch with our team directly for further advice and support.

Party Walls: Managing Shared Walls in Your Property

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:32:04 GMT

You may have heard the term ‘party wall’ referred to, as a homeowner, yet you might not know what it means. In this article from Simon Levy, we’ll define what a party wall is and cover the specific obligations that apply to you if you are subject to a party wall on your property, helping you to avoid and resolve any disputes between you and your fellow building owners. Read on to find out more.

What are party walls?

On some properties, you may share a wall with your neighbour. Whether a fence or a brick wall, it’s important to respectfully care for this shared structure. The wall itself is known as a party wall, as it is shared by multiple people. Party wall matters, therefore, refer to any disputes or problems between the neighbours regarding this shared wall.

Party Wall etc Act 1996

This act came into effect on 1st July 1997, applying throughout England and Wales. It is designed to help those who share a wall between properties to resolve disputes regarding their party wall. The Act lists various work you are allowed to carry out on your party wall, which includes permission to repair your shared wall or demolish and rebuild a party wall if it is structurally defective. It also includes your rights as a shared owner of a wall.

Your Responsibilities

Section 2 of the Party Wall etc Act 1996 states that adequate notice must be given before any work is carried out on the wall. Therefore, if you’re planning on carrying out any particular work on your party wall, you must inform your neighbours of your intention beforehand.

Similarly, if your neighbour wants to carry out construction work on your shared wall they are legally obligated to inform you before the work begins. While the construction is carried out, your neighbour should not cause any unnecessary inconvenience to you.

If you’re subject to sharing a party wall, you must not do anything major to the wall without letting your neighbour know. However, minor adjustments are often deemed unnecessary to inform your neighbour of, including drilling in nails for shelving or replastering the wall, depending on the severity of the work. If you feel unsure, it may be best to seek professional property advice from chartered building surveyors.

Our Services at Simon Levy

If you’re planning on alterations to a shared wall, it can be helpful to seek out party wall services beforehand. Luckily, at Simon Levy, we can provide you with high-quality legal advice on carrying work out on a party wall. Similarly, if you’re struggling with disturbances and disregard carried out by your neighbour to your co-owned wall, we can help you understand your rights.

Please visit our website to find out more about us and to meet our team . For further property advice and support, please contact us directly today.

The Reasons Your Planning Application May Be Rejected

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 10:17:50 GMT

Building your very own property can be an existing process. It’s an opportunity to create a building that is perfectly tailored to you, whether for commercial or domestic uses. The worst scenario, therefore, is having your planning application rejected before you even begin. In this article, we’ll cover some of the reasons that might be given for rejecting your application, so please read on to learn more.

Impacts Safety

Before submitting your planning permission application, it is worthwhile to consider how your new property will impact those who will live or work there. If you intend to build a commercial kitchen, for example, it’s incredibly important to consider how fire safety measures will be implemented. If your local authority cannot see evidence of a practical implementation of these, they may reject your application.

Use of Dangerous Materials

While certain materials may be aesthetically pleasing or appear appropriate, some can be hazardous and therefore prohibited. One example of a dangerous material that has long been banned from use is asbestos. It was once utilised for insulating purposes, however, it is a dangerous carcinogenic material, leading to its removal from many period buildings. Consider whether there are any restrictions on the building materials you’re allowed to use and whether you might have included any in your proposed plans.

Blocks Out Light

A flourishing neighbourhood needs plenty of light, whether a singular household or a collection of homes and businesses. To become a welcome new property owner or to prevent complaints about extensions to your existing home, it’s important to consider whether your new structure will be blocking light from shining down on your neighbour's property. Your application may be rejected if so.

Intrudes on Privacy

Privacy is important to a happy household. If you’re planning on building a new property, it’s important not to intrude on the privacy of your neighbours. If your new structure is to be built close to the windows or doors of neighbouring properties, the planning authority may see this as a reason to reject your application. To avoid this situation, ensure that your plan will not encroach on the privacy of those who live near you.

Restricts Road Access

Access is an incredibly important part of our daily lives, with the transportation of goods and persons being invaluable. So, if your proposed new structure restricts access to the local roads, it might be rejected by the planning authority. To avoid this, keep any planned structures away from important access points.

Our Services

If you are looking to obtain professional property advice on planning matters , our specialists at Simon Levy Associates are here to help. We can even help you make a planning permission appeal, should you have already received a rejected application. Please visit our website to learn more about us and our team. Alternatively, please get in touch with our friendly team , who would be happy to provide you with advice and support.

Property Surveys & Listed Buildings: Your Complete Guide

Wed, 12 Jun 2024 09:58:24 GMT

In the UK, we’re fortunate to be in the presence of thousands of historical buildings, many of which have endured for centuries. These include stately homes that are open to the public as well as private residential properties, all of which contribute to the important architectural heritage of our country.

Many of these buildings are protected by Historic England’s listing process, which distinguishes structures of particular cultural importance. From Battersea Power Station to Brighton Pavilion, listed buildings vary widely across the UK, and many are free to visit. Some listed buildings are also lived in as residential homes, where these homeowners must look after and modify their properties according to strict guidelines.

If you’re looking to buy an older property, it is important to be aware of any hidden repair costs or structural issues before making an offer. This is especially vital if you’re looking at a listed building, as you may be required to restore the property in a historically accurate manner.

Read on to find out more about property surveys and listed buildings, with a look at why a cautious approach is so important.

What is a Listed Building?

A listed building is distinguished as being of particular architectural, historical or cultural interest, meaning it is protected under the planning system for future generations. Listings tend to cover both the interior and exterior of a building, as well as any surrounding grounds.

Listings can be secured through public nominations, or Historic England will approach a building that has come to their attention. A recommendation is then made to the current Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, who will then make a final decision about whether the listing should be approved.

Listings come in three key grades, which dictate the historical importance of the site and the lengths that must be taken to preserve its traditional features:

Grade I - where buildings are of exceptional interest, the rarest grade.

Grade II* - where buildings are of more than special interest.

Grade II - where buildings are of special interest, typically the grade of residential properties.

What is a Property Survey?

A property survey involves a thorough examination of a building, its interior and its grounds in order to assess its overall condition on behalf of the owner or a prospective buyer. A chartered surveyor will compile any issues that they find into a detailed report, where this may also include suggestions for important repairs and improvements.

In terms of the property grounds, a surveyor will determine key boundaries, drainage systems and potential environmental hazards, where this information is essential for tackling potential disputes or planning issues. Inside the building, structural problems will be noted, including damp, weak supports or infestations.

All of these details are essential when it comes to helping buyers and developers to make informed decisions about a property.

The Importance of Surveying Your Listed Building

Conducting a thorough building survey is recommended when buying any property, as this can open your eyes to any issues and help you to make a fair offer. But if you’re looking to invest in a historical or listed building, then this kind of inspection is even more important.

When you sign the deed to a listed property, you become the key custodian of its heritage and architectural significance. As such, you will have a responsibility to preserve the site for future generations, with an eye on maintaining traditional features and highlighting the site’s cultural importance.

As such, a building survey can help you to understand exactly what you’re taking on when it comes to managing this kind of property.

Your listed building surveyor will also be able to:

Identify Alterations

A building surveyor will be able to identify any extensions or alterations made to the property by prior owners. If you buy the property, you will take on the responsibility for these changes, which could result in fines or repair costs if these alterations haven’t been carried out with historical preservation in mind.

Offer Guidance

You may also be able to consult with a specialist surveyor in order to receive advice on potential alterations that you may wish to make to the site. An expert in listed buildings will be able to assess whether your plans are feasible, offering potential alternatives and cost effective solutions to the problem at hand.

Suggest Funding Routes

Many listed buildings will be eligible for grants or funding to assist with repair costs, especially if you’re looking to conserve important architectural features in line with the guidelines set forth by Historic England. A specialist surveyor may be able to offer advice on funding applications at an early stage, meaning you will be able to estimate costs and repair schedules to a degree of accuracy.

Common Renovation Restrictions for Listed Properties

Conducting a thorough property survey can allow you to assess potential costs involved in making a listed building liveable. It is entirely possible to alter, extend or demolish various parts of the property with the appropriate permissions, where these are granted in order to balance historical preservation with functionality and safety. As such, once you’ve purchased a listed building, you might have more options than you initially thought.

However, it is essential that the appropriate permissions are granted before proceeding with any construction work. All building projects require standard planning permission, where listed properties are no exception.

In addition to this, you will also need to secure listed building consent for any alterations that may affect the character of the property. This is granted by your local authority, where your application must describe the significance of any historical assets that may be impacted by your planned work.

You will also need to demonstrate that any changes to historical features will be mitigated and avoided wherever possible, where some key elements may have to be restored using traditional architectural methods.

Some features that are typically protected by a historical listing include:

Building Materials - You may find that any alterations to your property have to be made using the same materials that were used in the original build, where this may include sourcing local brick or utilising specialist paint colours.

Walls - In particular, your property’s walls may have to be preserved, as these might be seen as intrinsic to the character of the building. As such, you might need to enlist the help of a traditional masonry contractor or bricklayer to replicate traditional patterns.

Windows - Although windows and window frames can be modernised for insulation purposes, you may have to restore original glass panes or wooden exteriors in order to preserve the original feel of your exterior.

Roofs - As with windows and walls, a property’s roof can give the exterior its character, meaning these often have to be restored using historical methods. This may mean manufacturing replacement tiles in a traditional manner, or enlisting the support of a historical roofer.

Trees - You should also bear in mind that some features of your grounds may be protected, especially if your site is adorned with particularly old or rare trees. As such, you may need to enlist the help of a specialist tree surgeon or arborist to ensure your greenery remains in good condition.

All of these intricacies should be considered before making an investment in a listed building, where a thorough property survey can allow you to consider the extent of repairs and restoration work that needs to be carried out.

Simon Levy: Full House Surveys & Property Inspections

At Simon Levy, our expert team can carry out a detailed property survey on your historical building, to help you to understand the financial risks and architectural limitations involved. We will take an in-depth look at structural elements, interior conditions and the surrounding grounds as part of our thorough investigation, so that you have all the information at your disposal to make an informed decision.

Beyond this, we can also offer commercial building surveys and planning support, helping you to make the best choices when it comes to your property. Our team is impartial, savvy and well-informed, so you can trust us to deliver a comprehensive, trustworthy service.

If you’re looking for shrewd property advice or if you’d like to book an inspection, speak to one of our professional building surveyors today.

Dilapidation Claims: How to Avoid Getting Stung

Wed, 01 May 2024 09:26:52 GMT

As tenants, you already pay thousands of pounds towards rent and security deposits every year, so the last thing you need is to be hit with hefty dilapidation claims at the end of your tenancy. It’s no secret that many landlords take advantage of tenants, by charging them for damages or repairs that they aren’t responsible for.

However, it doesn’t have to be this way. With the right legal support and understanding of your rights as a tenant, you can avoid having to pay for damages that weren’t caused by you.

What are dilapidations?

Simply put, dilapidations refer to the condition of the property either during the lease or when it expires. If you are under a commercial lease, it will likely include repairing covenants and often also include what is known as ‘yielding up’ provisions that explain the state and condition you must leave the property in when you leave.

If you do not comply with the obligations of your tenancy to carry out repairs, then your landlord may issue a ‘Schedule of Dilapidations” which sets out a list of items of damage and repair and what the respective costs are. Due to the nature of repairing obligations under most leases, non-compliance is very likely.

The landlord may serve this schedule before the end of the lease so you can carry out the repairs. Or it may be issued after, at which point you are unable to go back and do the work yourselves. In this case, a claim for dilapidations is a claim by the landlord for damages for breach of contract.

Top tips

To avoid dilapidation claims, follow our top tips:

Ensure you are aware of what you are agreeing to at the beginning of your lease, get advice and negotiate your repairing obligations. If there are elements visibly in disrepair, ask your landlord to repair these before your move-in or make sure they are accurately reported in the Schedule of Conditions.
During the term of your lease, make sure you stay on top of repairs and deal with any repairs that arise at the time, as well as set aside a dilapidations fund to pay for repairs at the end.
Make sure you talk to your landlord before the lease ends. Be aware of any key dates or deadlines in your lease and instruct a building surveyor to understand your obligations. Use a solicitor and building surveyor when you receive a Schedule of Dilapidations from your landlord.

At Simon Levy Associates, we offer help with dilapidations through dilapidation reports and dilapidation inspections. If you feel your landlord is making unfair claims for dilapidations, reach out to the experts at Simon Levy .

Party Wall Advice: What Happens if My Neighbour Dissents to a Party Wall Notice?

Wed, 01 May 2024 09:19:46 GMT

A party wall notice must be given to your neighbours to provide them with notice of the works you intend to carry out to the party wall in question. This must be given between two months and a year in advance of the work commencing. While you don’t need planning permission to serve a party wall notice, it is a good idea to do this as soon as possible to avoid delays. It is usually best to speak to your neighbours in person first before serving a written notice to help reassure them that you are taking the proper precautions. However, sometimes you may find yourself in a situation where your neighbour doesn’t agree to the party wall notice, what happens next?

Party wall notice dissent

If you have given a party wall notice to which your neighbour dissents, both the homeowner and the neighbour can appoint one agreed surveyor, typically within ten days, who can act impartially for both. The agreed surveyor needs to be independent and not the same surveyor the homeowner might be using for their own work.

The agreed surveyor will then produce a ‘Party Wall Award’. This will detail the works proposed and a schedule of conditions, with pictures of the neighbour's home. The homeowner who is carrying out the building works is the one responsible for paying for the surveyor to complete a party wall award. These rates are usually between £150 and £200 per hour and a party wall award can cost around £1000.00.

How to maintain a good relationship with your neighbours

You shouldn’t let a Party Wall Notice lead to a troubled relationship between you and your neighbour. It never ends well when there are issues and tensions between someone you live so close to. As mentioned previously, try to arrange a friendly chat with your neighbours before posting a Party Wall Notice through their letterbox. This will give you time to sit down, have a cup of tea and understand the position of your neighbour. You can show sketches and explain the planned works, explaining that a formal notice will be sent later.

You can expect your neighbour to ask for the contact details of your surveyor and/or building company to seek further information and reassurance. A Party Wall dispute doesn’t have to be the end of your building plans. You might simply have to spend a bit more time trying to make sure everyone is happy.

For advice and support with your party wall disputes or for other party wall services, contact Simon Levy today .

What are the Different Types of Building Surveys?

Wed, 01 May 2024 09:13:51 GMT

When buying a property in the UK, it is important to get a building survey. This will provide a detailed assessment of the property's condition, giving buyers property advice and helping them identify potential issues before finalising a purchase. There are different types of building surveys available, each tailored to meet specific needs and budgets.

In this blog, we explore the various types of commercial surveying in the UK to help you determine which one is right for you.

Mortgage valuation survey

A mortgage valuation survey is typically required by lenders before they approve a mortgage. It is a basic assessment to determine the property's value and ensure it provides sufficient security for the loan. This survey is not comprehensive and doesn't usually reveal structural problems. Instead, it focuses on market value and risks to the lender, so it's not sufficient for prospective buyers seeking detailed information about the property's condition.

Homebuyer report

The Homebuyer Report is more detailed than a mortgage valuation and is designed for standard properties in reasonable condition. It provides an overview of the property's condition, highlighting significant issues that might affect its value or require urgent attention. The report also includes a market valuation and advice on necessary repairs, making it suitable for buyers who want a general understanding of the property's condition without the expense of a full structural survey.

A building survey

A building survey, also known as a full structural survey, is the most comprehensive type of property inspection. It is suitable for older or unusual properties, those in need of renovation, or when significant structural changes are planned. This survey provides an in-depth analysis of the property's condition, identifying defects, structural issues, and recommendations for repairs and maintenance. It's the best choice for buyers seeking peace of mind and a complete understanding of their potential investment.

Condition report

The condition report is the most basic type of building survey, offering a brief overview of the property's condition. It uses a traffic-light system to indicate the severity of any identified issues, but it does not include a market valuation or extensive detail. This type of survey is best suited for newer properties or those in excellent condition, where buyers want reassurance without an in-depth analysis.

Choosing the right survey

Selecting the right building survey depends on several factors, including the property's age, condition, and any planned renovations or alterations. If you're purchasing a relatively new property with no major concerns, a condition report or Homebuyer Report might be sufficient. However, for older properties, unusual designs, or significant renovation plans, a building survey is the best choice to ensure you understand any potential risks.

Regardless of which survey you choose, always ensure it's conducted by a qualified surveyor who is a member of a professional body like the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). For building surveyors you can trust in Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London, get in touch with Simon Levy today.

What Does a Construction Claims Consultant Do?

Wed, 01 May 2024 09:06:00 GMT

Construction projects don’t always go to plan, so sometimes you need the help of construction claims experts. Construction claims experts are typically hired to assist with contractual claims, payment problems and property disputes. This is because there are often complex and long-running contracts within the construction industry that deal with multiple parties and contractors - each with uniquely specific issues.

Construction claims experts usually have a background in quantity surveying. You might find construction claims consultants who are part of a multinational organisation or some who are sole practitioners of smaller enterprises.

What do they do?

Construction claims experts are the bridge between construction companies and specialist construction lawyers. This means you can save some money, especially where the consultant has been involved in non-contentious stages of a project. However, there might be a risk of overreaching legal matters as a consequence of trying or wanting to do the right thing but not knowing other legal options that might be more suitable.

Claims consultants can be involved in a variety of different construction-related phases and issues such as:

The inception of a construction project involved the drafting of contractual documents
Reviewing contract terms;
Assisting with document management, the serving of notices and applications; and
Advising on issues if/as/when they arise.

Are claims consultants legally qualified solicitors?

Construction claims consultants are not legally qualified solicitors so they are not regulated or insured. However, they can still be greatly beneficial for a range of construction claims while costing significantly less than solicitors. They can give you the property advice you need without costing a fortune.

Construction claims experts are much more effective the earlier they are brought in. If an issue has been identified such as a payment dispute; allegations of defective work or poor workmanship; variation disputes; or delays; or there have been issues with time or designs, they are more effective the earlier the issue is raised with the right claims expert. Perhaps a payless notice needs to be served or a final account hasn’t been completed which can be used to your advantage. The sooner a construction claims expert can review and confirm the various options and nuances, the better they will be able to advise and take the necessary steps to create leverage and effectively deal with the issue.

If you are seeking a construction claims expert or construction expert witness, call Simon Levy today. We can provide you with the support you need for all types of property disputes.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Your First Home Carefully

Wed, 01 May 2024 08:59:21 GMT

Purchasing a new home can be a welcome and rewarding experience, changing how your daily life works. For first-time home buyers, however, the excited anticipation can also come with some anxiety. There are a few ways to prepare, helping ease any anxiety when securing your new house to your move into the perfect property.

In this article from Simon Levy, you can learn more about how to prepare for moving into your first property. We will also cover how our team of experts can provide you with a wide range of property advice.

A Fresh Start

After renting, it can be a wonderful relief to move to your own home finally. A fresh start can be beneficial, often a bit further afield and into an area you’re not well-acquainted with. So, if you have a potential spot in mind, there are a few things you should consider before leaping fully.

The Area

Before fully committing to purchasing a property in a new city or area, it’s advisable to spend some time in that place. Often, it can be difficult to get a true sense of a location from a quick visit to the property alone, which can lead to some discoveries about the area that are less than preferable. For example, perhaps there isn’t the nightlife you’re after, or the public transport options are less frequent than you need them to be.

Where possible, it’s best to stay overnight as close to your potential new district is. This should give you a good idea about factors like how loud the area is during the night, as well as a chance to speak to the locals about the area without needing to rush off back to your current property.

Payments

When it comes to buying a first-time property, ensuring you have enough money to make a payment and afford a mortgage is key. Before purchasing, it’s important to be aware of all the costs that will be associated with securing homeownership.

Unlike renting, which is comparatively simple when it comes to costs, purchasing a home will have several stages and processes to become the legal owner of a property. This includes, but is not limited to, conveyancing fees, mortgage fees and valuation fees. It’s therefore recommended to seek property advice before confirming you can afford to purchase your first home.

Motivation

Understanding your motivation before moving out of your previous property is important to finding the perfect new home. Many couples move into their first property to make space for their burgeoning family, requiring more space than before. Other new homeowners might be looking to get on the property ladder for the first time, eager to stop renting.

By figuring out what you’re after specifically, you can create a realistic budget as well as a better understanding of your non-negotiables. These criteria will help you to narrow down any potential homes until you find the right one.

Planning for the Future

When purchasing a new home, it can be tempting to only look for homes that are suitable for your needs currently. While this is a great option if you’re looking to move after a few years, many homeowners are seeking homes for a longer period. If you fit into the latter category, it’s vital to choose a home that will serve you throughout the next stages of your life.

If you’re planning to take big steps in the next few years of your life, think reasonably about what that may entail for your next home. Planning for a new baby, for example, will require an extra bedroom, acting as a nursery in the first stages of your child’s life. Similarly, if you’d like to buy or adopt a dog, choose a home with a suitably sized garden, ready for this new stage.

Before You Move In

Once you have secured your new property, it’s a good idea to organise the home before you move in. Within this section, you can easily find out how you should prepare your first home for moving in, from buying the right furniture to organising a full-house survey.

Knowing What to Buy

It’s rare to be fully prepared for a new home with your existing belongings, so you may need to purchase new furniture. Once you have secured your property, it is wise to make a budget for your new items. This will help you stick to a strict schedule, as well as organising delivery directly to your new home. Buying new items can also make your house function better for you, making it vital to plan sensibly for your new home.

Packing Sensibly

When preparing to move, there are some recommendations for how to pack your items to move into your first home. Any boxing of items should be done in order of importance, from least to most used, helping you easily access the items you need on the other side. This is especially important when moving with small children or pets, who require extra belongings to be accessible at all times.

Defect Diagnosis

When it comes to large issues in a property, such as water damage and infestations, these aren’t always immediately obvious. Hidden defects can often lead to further issues, even including the collapse of your new property. Health issues, such as asthma, can also be worsened by dampness and spores, often symptomatic of integral defects. It’s recommended to hire a legal representative's assistance to analyse the property's condition.

Some potential defects you ought to look for include:

Structural movements
Dampness
Mould growth
Distorted walls
Condensation
Sound penetration

It’s important to check whether defects are present before moving everyone in, as serious problems can require major repairs. Construction can be disturbing to home life, particularly with young children and pets, especially when the project is intrusive and invasive. Catch issues early with a defect diagnosis, performed by a property advice team.

Later Problems

Unfortunately, issues can arise following your move. Whether it’s a week or a year later, dealing with any problems needs to be done quickly. In this section, you can find out why you should seek the assistance of professional building surveyors in the event of a problem in your new home.

Neighbour Disputes

After moving in, you may have the opportunity to welcome new neighbours. Hopefully, your new neighbours will be polite and respectful, however, there are some circumstances where the people next door become an issue. Noise will largely be heard through walls adjoining the two properties, known as a party wall. There are some instances where either you or your neighbours will want to make adjustments to the wall, which can lead to large and unpleasant disputes.

Party wall disputes can be messy and complex, which is why you should contact expert surveyors as soon as possible. They can help to resolve these issues as soon as possible, obtaining a fair resolution about any matters.

Planning Permission

Looking to buy a home that needs fixing up? Houses that require construction projects are a great way to achieve your dream home, through contract work. Before any adjustments or site adaptations can be made, it’s vital to get planning permission.

To obtain approval for any construction projects, seek planning application advice from professional building surveyors. Experienced experts can be instrumental, equipped to assist with even the most complex of permission appeals.

Our Services

If you’re looking to move into your first home, our team at Simon Levy would be happy to help. We offer professional services related to the surveyance of buildings, helping new and experienced homeowners get accustomed to their new property. This section will briefly explain some of our most popular services for homeowners.

Our full-house surveys are designed to help property owners understand their building fully, helping to navigate and address any major issues early on. With our experienced property advice, you can fully prepare for the work your house might need, preventing unexpected costs from cropping up.

If you’ve discovered a serious defect in your home, our team of experts can be on hand to help here too. We offer a defect diagnosis service, determining what the cause of the problem is. From mould to structural movement, it’s vital to address problems quickly and smoothly.

As mentioned in this article, neighbours can be an unexpected problem. Thankfully, our team at Simon Levy can help you successfully obtain the planning permission you need, as well as helping you resolve any disputes over shared boundaries, such as party walls . Don’t let bothersome neighbours ruin your dream property!

Please visit our website to learn more about us and view our past projects . Get in touch with our team of property experts today to book an appointment.

The Everyday Importance Of Commercial Surveying Services

Wed, 01 May 2024 08:53:51 GMT

Running a business means taking care of daily operations with an eye on the bottom line. This means managing staff, organising equipment and streamlining established processes in order to boost productivity and maintain everyday standards. Importantly however, the exterior of a business also demands a degree of careful attention, where the physical building which contains these daily operations also needs to be taken care of and properly maintained.

That’s where a building surveyor can help. A commercial surveying service can allow you to thoroughly understand your property and the surrounding area in order to make informed financial and business decisions, where this foreknowledge is essential for guaranteeing your company’s success. Read on to find out more about commercial surveying, with a look at why it is so important for businesses.

What Is Commercial Surveying

Commercial surveying is one branch of work undertaken by professional building surveyors, where these experts are trained to inspect residential, commercial and industrial properties. Some may specialise in the world of commercial surveys in particular, meaning they will work closely with businesses of all kinds to provide information about their land and properties.

More specifically, a commercial building surveyor will inspect the condition of a property, identify any major defects or issues, and suggest ways forward if repairs are required. Some experts may also be hired specifically to advise on concerns relating to property development or valuations. As such, surveyors are trained to advise their clients about the viability of their land and property, where this kind of expert insight can help to inform major business decisions.

Commercial surveyors will draw on a range of different techniques in order to gather their information. They may measure the dimensions of a commercial property, source topographical maps and conduct environmental assessments in order to acquire a good understanding of the local area. Some of these processes may include the use of GPS technology or aerial drones, whilst property interiors are usually inspected by hand. Following this analysis, the surveyor will draw up a detailed report containing their key findings and recommendations for the client.

Why You May Need A Commercial Survey

This kind of commercial survey is essential for gathering detailed information about a property and the surrounding area. As such, there are numerous reasons why a business may need to conduct this kind of analysis, where some of these include:

Insurance Purposes

One of the major reasons why a company would choose to carry out a commercial survey is for insurance. This is because insurance companies may require a survey to be completed before they agree to provide coverage, particularly if the commercial property and grounds are large in size. An in depth survey can help to establish the levels of risk involved in providing cover, meaning accurate estimates can be drawn up.

Pre-Purchase Survey

Another reason why a full survey may be carried out is if someone is looking to buy a commercial property. As with buying a house, it is recommended that a property survey is completed to assess the building for any major issues or defects, where this kind of precaution can help to save the buyer money and hassle in the long run. If issues are discovered, then the buyer can then renegotiate their asking price to reflect the findings of the survey.

Compliance

When it comes to running a business, compliance with local regulations is of the utmost importance. Conducting a property survey may be a requirement in this sense if renovations, extensions or alterations are to be implemented, where these could have an impact on the surrounding environment. A property survey may be just one part of the planning process that has to be completed to a high standard before any changes can be made.

Future Maintenance

Beyond this, conducting a commercial property survey can also be useful if the business owner wants to prepare for any future maintenance issues. Carrying out this kind of inspection can help to uncover lingering structural damage or other costly problems that need to be addressed in a timely manner. Understanding the needs of the property in this way can allow a company to plan ahead instead of having to deal with expensive surprises further down the line.

Lease Negotiations

Often commercial properties are leased instead of being owned outright. This means that the business owner is subject to the pricing of the landlord, which can have a major impact on their bottom line. Business tenants can therefore request a property survey in order to impartially assess the condition of a building before they enter into a binding lease agreement. This can help to ensure that all costs are fair and reasonable, helping to avoid disputes in future.

Asset Management

Many business owners will be responsible for more than one property, where managing these will form their overall income. As such they may wish to conduct a property survey as part of their asset management strategising, where the information that they gather as a result of the inspection can be used to help them to decide which assets they choose to buy, sell or renovate. Without this information, it can be difficult to make informed decisions about the status of multiple large sized properties.

Property Disputes

Additionally, commercial building surveys can come in handy in the case of a dispute. Often residential and commercial property owners can become embroiled in disagreements relating to land boundaries, access or other encroachment issues, where these can escalate quickly. Legal representatives or impartial third parties may request that a survey is carried out in order to settle these kinds of disputes quickly, which can help to prevent the need for further legal costs.

Simon Levy: Commercial Surveying Services To Support Your Business

At Simon Levy, we provide a wide range of property inspections and structural surveys to both our residential and commercial clients. With every survey, we prioritise impartiality and attention to detail at every level, meaning you can always trust in our final recommendations.

Our full building surveys are exceptionally thorough, where we take into account every aspect of your property and the surrounding area. We will assess the entire exterior of your site, which includes boundaries, driveways, gardens and access routes, where we will note any unusual conditions that may impact your building.

Beyond this, we will also assess:

Local Geological Survey Maps, where we will draw detailed conclusions from our findings
External plumbing, where this includes gutters, downpipes, soil pipes and any other relevant waterworks
External landscaping, where our assessment will cover trees, hedges and other overhanging vegetation that could pose a risk
Accessible roof voids and loft areas, where this will include an inspection of roof support timbers and other essential structures
Your building services and utilities, where this can include electrical, mechanical, gas and drainage systems used by your property and those instilled in the surrounding area

Our full building surveys will also include an internal inspection of your building, where we will consider major issues that could be hazardous or expensive to resolve. Such issues may include damp penetration, timber decay and poor ventilation. In addition to this, our experts can also consider the general thermal performance of your property, as well as sound insulation standards.

Once we have conducted a full inspection of your property and its surroundings, we will then draw up our final reports. At your request, our team can provide you with an additional summary of approximated repair costs, where these come with advice detailing the urgency of various repairs and structural issues. The final report will also include a balanced conclusion assessing the overall condition of your property, which can be useful if you’re looking to negotiate a sales price or if you’re planning to sell in the future.

We pride ourselves on the depthful nature of our reports, where our expert team are familiar with all kinds of commercial properties. As such, our experience means that we can be depended on to provide thorough and impartial recommendations, whether you need a survey for planning compliance or to assess the value of your assets. Get in touch with our team today to find out more about how we can help.

The Vital Role of Regular Building Surveys

Wed, 01 May 2024 08:50:39 GMT

In the dynamic landscape of Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, the integrity and value of your property are paramount. Regular building surveys by accredited structural surveyors, such as Simon Levy Associates, play a vital role in maintaining and enhancing these aspects.

But why are these surveys so crucial for property owners? Read on to find out why.

Safeguarding Your Investment

Owning property is a significant investment. Regular inspections by a professional property inspection service can protect this investment by identifying issues early. Structural surveyors are skilled in uncovering hidden problems that might go unnoticed by the untrained eye. Early detection can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs.

A full house survey assesses the safety of the building's structure, ensuring the well-being of occupants and visitors. This is especially critical in areas known for historical buildings or those prone to environmental wear.

Enhancing Property Value

Whether you're looking to sell or simply want to ensure your property's longevity, regular surveys can increase market value and attract prospective buyers.

A well-maintained property, as evidenced by regular professional surveys, can significantly increase in market value. Properties with up-to-date, comprehensive survey reports are more attractive to buyers, as these documents provide a sense of security and transparency regarding the property's condition.

Planning Renovations and Extensions

For those considering renovations or extensions, a full house survey provides a solid foundation for planning. Understanding the existing structural integrity of your property is crucial before any work begins. Simon Levy Associates can offer expert advice on how to proceed safely and efficiently.

Structural surveyors ensure that all proposed changes comply with local building regulations and planning permissions, mitigating legal risks and potential fines.

Why Choose Simon Levy Associates?

Simon Levy Associates stands out in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London for several reasons:

Expertise and Experience: With years of experience and a dedicated team of chartered surveyors, Simon Levy Associates offers unparalleled insight into your property's condition.
Personalised Service: Understanding that each property is unique, we provide bespoke advice tailored to your specific needs.
Comprehensive Reporting: Our detailed survey reports are easy to understand, providing you with the knowledge to make informed decisions about your property.

Simon Levy - Reliable Property Surveyors

Regular building surveys are an essential practice for any property owner looking to protect their investment, ensure safety, and plan future projects. Simon Levy Associates, with our expertise in structural surveys , property inspections, and full house surveys, are your ideal partners in navigating the complexities of property management in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London.

Don't wait for small issues to become big problems. Contact Simon Levy Associates for a comprehensive building survey that will provide peace of mind and secure the future of your property.

The Crucial Role of Expert Witnesses in Construction Disputes

Wed, 01 May 2024 08:44:05 GMT

In the complex world of construction and property management, disputes are not uncommon. Whether it's a disagreement over boundary lines, the quality of workmanship, or contract specifications, the clarity and resolution these situations demand can often only be provided by an expert witness.

Chartered surveyors, especially those with a background in construction like Simon Levy Associates, play a crucial role in these scenarios as expert witnesses. Read on to find out more.

Expert Insight into Construction Disputes

The involvement of a construction expert witness is invaluable in disputes that require a deep understanding of building processes, standards, and regulations. Here’s how they make a difference:

Objective Analysis: An expert witness provides an unbiased, professional opinion based on the facts of the case, helping to clarify technical issues for the court or arbitration panel.
Technical Expertise: With their comprehensive knowledge of construction practices and standards, chartered surveyors can dissect complex technical jargon into understandable, relatable terms, aiding in the accurate resolution of disputes.
Evidentiary Support: They supply detailed reports and, if necessary, testify in court, offering evidentiary support that can be pivotal in the decision-making process.

Simon Levy Associates: Your Trusted Expert Witnesses

Simon Levy Associates stand out in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, offering services that go beyond the standard remit of chartered surveyors. Our expertise in the construction sector and property management positions them perfectly as expert witnesses in property disputes.

Our years of practice in the field grant them an authoritative voice in legal matters, ensuring your case is based on solid, professional insights. Recognising that each dispute is unique, we offer tailored advice and support, focusing on the specific details of your case. In matters as potentially convoluted as construction disputes, our ability to communicate complex issues in clear, accessible language is invaluable.

The Difference Expert Witnesses Can Make

In the resolution of property disputes, the contribution of an expert witness cannot be overstated. From providing critical analysis to delivering decisive evidence, their role is central to achieving a fair, informed outcome. Simon Levy Associates embraces this responsibility with a deep commitment to accuracy, integrity, and professionalism.

Navigating Your Dispute with Expertise

If you find yourself entangled in a construction or property dispute in Borehamwood, Watford, or Greater London, the need for an expert witness is clear. Simon Levy Associates are poised to offer our extensive expertise and support, ensuring your case is approached with the thoroughness and precision it demands.

Don’t face your construction or property disputes alone. Contact Simon Levy Associates for expert witness services that bring clarity, authority, and resolution to your case. Our chartered surveyors are ready to stand by your side, offering the professional guidance and evidentiary support you need to navigate your legal challenges successfully.

Navigating Party Wall Disputes with Ease

Wed, 01 May 2024 08:39:08 GMT

When it comes to property enhancements, understanding party wall matters is crucial for homeowners in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London. A party wall dispute can arise when neighbours disagree over construction work affecting a shared wall or boundary.

Simon Levy Associates, with our years of expertise as chartered building surveyors, offer unparalleled advice and solutions to navigate these disputes smoothly.

Read on to find out more about party wall disputes and how we can help.

Understanding Party Wall Matters

Party wall advice is essential from the outset of any construction project near adjoining properties. Here's why:

Preventive Measure: Early consultation can prevent disputes by ensuring all parties are informed and in agreement with the proposed works.
Legal Compliance: The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 mandates that neighbours be given notice of intended works, highlighting the importance of professional advice to adhere to legal requirements.
Expert Insight: Specialists like Simon Levy Associates bring a deep understanding of property law and construction, aiding in clear, compliant, and friendly negotiations.

Steps to Ease Party Wall Disputes

Resolving party wall disputes doesn't have to be a headache. Here's a structured approach to handle these matters effectively:

Early Communication: Initiate conversations with your neighbours before planning any work. Transparency builds trust and opens the door for amicable discussions.
Professional Assessment: Engage a chartered surveyor to assess the proposed works' impact on the party wall. Simon Levy Associates offers a detailed analysis, ensuring all parties understand the potential effects.
Notice and Agreement: Serve a party wall notice to your neighbours, detailing the work. A clear, professional notice can pave the way for a party wall agreement, mitigating any concerns or disputes.
Mediation and Resolution: If a dispute arises, mediation by an expert surveyor can offer a neutral solution that respects both parties' interests. Simon Levy Associates excels in mediating property disputes, ensuring fair and lawful outcomes.
Documentation and Follow-Up: Ensure all agreements, notices, and resolutions are well-documented. Continuous follow-up can prevent misunderstandings and keep the project on track.

Simplifying Property Disputes With Simon Levy

Party wall matters , while complex, can be navigated with ease and professionalism with the right advice and expertise. Simon Levy Associates, serving Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, stand ready to assist homeowners in resolving these disputes efficiently and amicably. Our commitment to excellence and deep understanding of property law make them an invaluable partner in your construction projects.

For expert party wall advice and assistance in resolving property disputes, reach out to Simon Levy Associates . Let's build better together, without the worry of party wall disputes standing in your way.

Ease Your Insurance Claim Process with Expert Surveyors

Wed, 01 May 2024 08:30:25 GMT

Dealing with a building insurance claim can be daunting, especially in the aftermath of property damage. Whether due to natural disasters, water damage, or other unforeseen circumstances, the process requires meticulous attention to detail.

Fortunately, the expertise of chartered building surveyors, like Simon Levy Associates in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, can make this process significantly smoother.

Read on to find out more.

The Crucial Role of Building Surveyors in Insurance Claims

Building surveyors play a pivotal role in the insurance claim process. Here's how they can assist:

Accurate Damage Assessment: They provide a thorough and accurate assessment of the damage, ensuring that all issues are documented for the insurance company.
Expert Representation: Acting as a liaison between you and the insurance adjuster, surveyors ensure your claim is fairly represented and that you receive the compensation you're entitled to.
Technical Expertise: With an in-depth understanding of building structures and repairs, surveyors can dispute any underestimations made by the insurance company, advocating for your best interests.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Building Insurance Claim

Immediate Documentation: As soon as possible after the damage occurs, document everything. This includes taking photographs and making notes about the damage.
Contact Your Surveyor: Engaging a chartered building surveyor early can guide you through the initial steps and ensure you have the professional documentation needed for your claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance provider about the incident and express your intention to file a claim. Your surveyor can help compile the necessary details to ensure your notification is comprehensive.
Prepare for the Insurance Adjuster: Your insurance company will send an adjuster to evaluate the damage. Having your building surveyor present during this visit ensures that all damages are accurately assessed from a structural standpoint.
Claim Submission: With the support of your building surveyor, submit your claim, including all required documentation and professional assessments.

Why Simon Levy Associates?

Choosing Simon Levy Associates means partnering with experts who understand the nuances of building insurance claims in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London. Our commitment to client advocacy and professional integrity ensures that your claim is handled efficiently and effectively, maximising your settlement outcome.

Simon Levy Associates acts in your best interest, ensuring your voice is heard and your claim is accurately represented. Our thorough understanding of building structures guarantees that all damages are appropriately documented. Benefit from strategic advice on navigating the claims process, from initial documentation to final settlement discussions.

Securing Your Settlement with Expert Support

Facing a building insurance claim can be overwhelming, but with the right support, it doesn't have to be. Simon Levy Associates provides the expertise and advocacy needed to navigate the process smoothly, ensuring you receive the settlement you deserve.

Don't navigate your building insurance claim alone. Contact Simon Levy Associates for expert guidance and support, ensuring your property and peace of mind are restored swiftly and successfully.

Reasons Why You May Need an Expert Witness

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 12:38:44 GMT

When dealing with commercial surveying, construction disputes, or structural assessments, having an expert witness by your side can be invaluable. Simon Levy, a chartered building surveyor firm in Greater London, offers comprehensive services that cover these needs meticulously.

This blog post from us here at Simon Levy delves into the reasons why our expertise is essential for clients in these fields.

Expert Insights on Commercial Surveying

Commercial properties come with their own set of complexities. Whether it's a dispute over property boundaries, construction quality, or a need for a thorough inspection, Simon Levy's team brings deep knowledge and impartial advice. Our chartered surveyors are skilled in identifying and documenting issues that could significantly impact the valuation and usability of commercial properties.

The Role of a Construction Expert Witness

In the event of construction disputes, an expert witness can provide clear, objective testimony based on their professional knowledge and experience. Simon Levy's team, with our extensive background in the industry, can offer critical insights that help resolve conflicts. We can navigate the intricacies of construction law, standards, and practices, making us indispensable in legal disputes related to construction projects.

Structural Surveyors: Assessing the Integrity of Your Property

Before embarking on any construction project or property purchase, a structural survey by qualified surveyors like those at Simon Levy is crucial. We can assess the structural integrity of buildings, identifying potential issues that could affect the project. Our detailed reports provide a solid foundation for decision-making, ensuring that investments are sound and that buildings meet safety standards.

Why Simon Levy?

Simon Levy Associates stands out for our commitment to professionalism, integrity, and expertise. Accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors and The Academy of Experts, our team assures clients of the highest standards in every service offered. From residential to commercial, to educational properties, we have the breadth of experience to handle a wide range of surveying needs effectively.

Get In Touch Today

If you're facing a commercial surveying challenge, embroiled in a construction dispute, or require a thorough structural survey in Greater London, Simon Levy is here to help. Our expert witness services can provide the clarity and resolution you need. Don't let unresolved issues jeopardise your property's value or your project's success.

Contact Simon Levy Associates today to learn how our expertise can benefit you.

Tips For Mastering Building Insurance Claims

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 12:30:51 GMT

Navigating the process of making a building insurance claim can be daunting, especially in the aftermath of property damage.

This blog post illuminates the path to successfully handling insurance claims, leveraging property advice, insurance claim advice, and expertise in building insurance claims.

The Significance of Expert Advice

When disaster strikes, be it through fire, flood, or structural issues, the importance of expert intervention cannot be overstated. Simon Levy's professional team is adept at assessing damage, ensuring that the scope of repairs and claims accurately reflects the needs of both the property and the client. Our dedicated assistance can be the difference between a straightforward resolution and a prolonged dispute.

Navigating Insurance Claims

The process of making an insurance claim involves more than just submitting paperwork; it requires a nuanced understanding of policy details and the ability to negotiate with insurers effectively. Simon Levy's experts bring a wealth of experience in managing these discussions, aiming to secure the most favourable outcome for our clients.

Comprehensive Support

From initial damage assessment to liaising with insurance companies, Simon Levy provides a comprehensive service designed to alleviate the stress associated with insurance claims. Our expertise not only covers the technical aspects of property damage but also extends to negotiating with insurers, ensuring that clients receive the compensation they are entitled to.

Why Simon Levy?

Choosing Simon Levy for your building insurance claim needs means opting for a partner who prioritises your best interests. Our extensive experience, coupled with a commitment to delivering tailored advice and solutions, makes them an invaluable ally in the insurance claim process. Accredited by reputable institutions and equipped with a broad range of property services, Simon Levy stands ready to assist with any claim, large or small.

Building Insurance Claim Assistance From Simon Levy

If you find yourself facing the complexity of a building insurance claim, Simon Levy is here to help. Our expert team offers the specialised advice and support needed to navigate the claims process efficiently and effectively. Don't let the challenge of dealing with insurers deter you from securing what you deserve.

Contact Simon Levy today for professional guidance and support, ensuring your claim is handled with the care and expertise it requires.

Advice for Boundary Disputes

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 12:22:44 GMT

Dealing with boundary disputes can be a challenging aspect of property ownership. Simon Levy, a reputable firm of chartered surveyors in Greater London, offers specialised advice and services to navigate these complex issues.

This blog post provides insight into managing boundary disputes with the help of expert property advice, party wall advice, and the expertise of chartered surveyors.

The Importance of Expert Guidance

Boundary disputes can arise from misunderstandings or disagreements over the precise boundary line between properties. These disputes often require the intervention of expert chartered surveyors, who can provide accurate assessments and clarify the legal positions of each party involved. Simon Levy Associates, with our extensive experience in party wall matters and boundary disputes, stands ready to offer impartial and knowledgeable advice.

Party Wall Matters and Boundary Clarification

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 highlights the importance of proper notification and agreement between neighbours when work is to be carried out near or on a boundary line. Simon Levy’s team is adept at handling these matters, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and fostering amicable resolutions between parties.

How Chartered Surveyors Can Help

Chartered surveyors play a crucial role in resolving boundary disputes by providing detailed surveys that establish the exact boundaries of a property. Their reports can serve as a basis for negotiation or, if necessary, for legal action. Simon Levy’s surveyors combine our technical expertise with a thorough understanding of property law to offer comprehensive support throughout the dispute resolution process.

Mitigating Disputes Through Professional Advice

One of the best ways to avoid or resolve boundary disputes is through early intervention by professionals. Simon Levy offers expert property advice, including pre-emptive measures and strategies to address potential issues before they escalate. By engaging our services early, property owners can save time, money, and stress.

Why Choose Simon Levy?

Simon Levy stands out for its commitment to providing clear, precise, and actionable advice in the realm of property disputes. Our chartered surveyors bring a wealth of experience and a personalised approach to each case, ensuring clients receive the best possible outcome. Accredited by respected institutions and recognised for our expertise in party wall advice, Simon Levy Associates is your go-to source for boundary dispute resolution.

If you’re facing a boundary dispute or require expert party wall advice in Greater London, don’t hesitate to reach out to Simon Levy. Our team of experienced chartered surveyors is equipped to guide you through the complexities of property disputes, offering peace of mind and professional resolution.

Contact Simon Levy today to secure your property’s boundaries and protect your rights as an owner.

A Guide to Construction Disputes

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 12:11:30 GMT

Navigating construction disputes can be a complex process, fraught with challenges and requiring nuanced understanding. Simon Levy, a leading firm of chartered building surveyors in Greater London, offers specialised guidance and expert witness services to clients embroiled in property disputes.

This blog post outlines how the team here at Simon Levy can assist with construction dispute advice and why our expertise is invaluable for anyone facing such issues.

Understanding Construction Disputes

Construction disputes arise from disagreements related to a building project. These can encompass a range of issues, from the quality of workmanship to delays, payment disputes, and contractual breaches. The complexity of construction projects, with their many moving parts and reliance on various professionals, makes these disputes all too common.

Simon Levy's team of construction consultants and chartered surveyors are adept at navigating these waters, offering clarity and resolution strategies to our clients.

Expertise in Resolution

Simon Levy's professionals bring a wealth of experience to the table, acting as construction dispute consultants. With a deep understanding of both the technical and legal aspects of construction disputes, we are well-placed to offer construction dispute advice that is both practical and informed.

Our approach is tailored to the unique circumstances of each case, ensuring that clients receive advice that is relevant to their specific situation.

The Role of Construction Consultants

Construction consultants like those at Simon Levy play a critical role in dispute resolution. Our expertise is not just in assessing the technical aspects of a dispute but also in understanding the nuances of construction law and contractual obligations.

We can act as a mediary, offering solutions that avoid costly and time-consuming legal battles. Moreover, our status as chartered surveyors lends an authoritative voice to our findings and recommendations, often facilitating a quicker resolution.

Why Choose Simon Levy?

Choosing Simon Levy for construction dispute resolution means securing a partner who is committed to your interests. Our construction consultants are not only experts in their field but are also accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, ensuring professionalism and adherence to the highest standards. Whether you're a property owner, contractor, or developer, Simon Levy's team can offer the guidance and support you need to navigate through the complexities of construction disputes.

Construction Dispute Advice from Simon Levy

If you're facing a construction dispute in Greater London, don't go it alone. Simon Levy's team of chartered building surveyors and construction dispute consultants can offer the expert advice and support you need to find a resolution.

With our comprehensive understanding of property disputes and construction law, we are your ideal partner in resolving conflicts and ensuring your project's success.

Contact Simon Levy today to learn how we can assist you with your construction dispute needs.

Planning Application Advice: A Guide to Getting The Go-Ahead

Wed, 03 Apr 2024 12:03:57 GMT

Starting a new construction project can be an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience, but it certainly isn’t without its challenges. In many cases, you will need permission before you begin to do any work. To receive this nod of approval, you first need to put in what is known as a planning application to your local issuing authority. How, then, do you ensure this goes through successfully and without being denied or delayed?

This article explains everything you need to know about seeking planning permission, and how to receive planning application advice. Read on to find out more.

Defining Planning Permission

Before applying for planning permission, it’s important to know how it can be defined and its purpose. Without full knowledge and understanding, you may end up wasting your time unnecessarily. As a preventative measure, read on into this section to find out everything you need to know about what planning permission is.

The History

Land ownership agreements in writing have been around for centuries, helping to resolve property disputes as soon as they crop up. This includes the Magna Carta, for example, a text written in the Middle Ages to prevent the king from abusing his power and overtaxing the public. Proper regulations around planning permission, however, are relatively recent in the UK.

Legislation began to appear in the late 19th century, as the Industrial Revolution brought about overcrowding problems and property disputes about living situations. However, the rules and paperwork were established more for the sake of sanitation purposes at the time, rather than the issues we are largely concerned about today.

Regulations became recognisable to us today following the World Wars when the Town and Country Planning Act was introduced in 1947. This act stipulated that landowners needed to get permission from their local planning authority, such as the council, to carry out any projects or developments. It led to the development of the current system all landowners are subject to today.

The current Town and Country Planning Act has a much greater emphasis on environmental sustainability, to reduce the impact any new developments have on existing structures and wildlife. It comes with a variety of rules and regulations, which must be understood and followed before any projects can take place.

Why It Is Needed

As mentioned above, the rules surrounding planning applications have been in development for the past two centuries, in differing stages. The intention for planning permission rules is now to protect the landscape and environment that is likely to be built upon. In this way, important and protected areas can be kept safe from damage caused by construction.

Not only are planning applications meant to restrict the impact on the local environment but they are also meant to reduce the risk of property disputes. No one wants to purchase their dream home to find out years later that their neighbour will block their view by expanding their own home. Property disputes can be messy and expensive, so preventing their potential as early as possible is key.

Know If You Need It

Before you go through the process of a planning application, you might find it’s not needed for your project. On the other hand, it’s always better safe than sorry to check the requirements before beginning a new project, to save you from property disputes later down the line.

Read this section carefully to find out whether it is necessary for your planned project.

The Three Reasons for Planning Permission

While there are several unique situations where you may need to apply for planning permission, there are three most common reasons that repeatedly crop up.

Perhaps the most obvious change that requires planning permission is the process of building something new. This will usually refer to large buildings and houses that will make significant changes to the existing landscape, such as the construction of a new office block. A planning permission application is therefore required to be approved by the local governing body to take place lawfully.

If you intend to make major changes to your building, such as an extension or a structural change, you may need to get planning permission from your local planning authority. While your building may not have property disputes ongoing, changing the structure of your property may lead to an unexpected blocking of your view or destroyed sensitive landscapes. It’s therefore important to get planning permission, to make sure that any change to the environment is approved.

Surprisingly, even changing the purpose of your building can require approved planning permission. Perhaps you’d like to make a disused warehouse into an open-plan office or change an abandoned church building into apartments. Regardless of what you would like to do, it’s essential to ascertain whether planning permission is required beforehand, by getting in touch with your local issuing authority.

Being Denied

If you are or have already been denied planning permission, don’t be disheartened. There are some cases in which you can appeal the decision, after making some adjustments or providing evidence of why the reasons given for denial were wrong.

In most cases, a planning permission request will be denied due to its impact on the surroundings. To help you understand what has happened and why, this section details the potential justifications, as well as how to get back on your feet and reapply.

Reasons for Denial

To deny your application, the issuing authority must have clearly explained reasons as to why. These reasons, although different for each local planning authority, will usually include or reference an impact on the site’s surroundings.

To help you understand why you might have been denied, we have listed a few of the most common justifications for denying a planning permission request.

A local planning authority may deny an application if the request:
Impacts the environment
Restricts road access
Uses hazardous materials
Someone loses privacy
Poses a safety risk
Not acceptably planned, e.g. the plans are not properly to a scale
Stops light coming through

Planning Permission Appeals

If you believe you have been unjustly denied on your planning application, you should be able to apply for an appeal. If you have lost money because of unreasonable behaviour by the governing body, you can even apply for what is known as an ‘award of costs’.

Three key circumstances in particular can lead you to appeal your local planning authority’s decision. Should you like to appeal, it’s worth describing your circumstances to a company to receive planning application advice.

You might appeal a decision if you have:
Been refused planning permission unfairly
Been granted permission but have requirements that you object to
Not received a decision after a set amount of time

Preventing Being Denied

Seek planning application advice from an expert to get a good sense of whether you are likely to be accepted on your request. If not, the professional company should be able to provide you with some advice for adjustments that can be made to your request or project plans to ensure that you are accepted while still achieving what you want.

Not every local planning authority will have the same requirements for accepting a planning permission application, so it’s vital to know what is specifically needed from you. Moving areas can often trip you up, so make sure to check the rules for your new area fully before starting any projects.

How We Can Help

If you’re feeling lost and overwhelmed when it comes to finding high-quality planning application advice, look no further than Simon Levy. In this section, you can learn more about our expertise and how it can be applied to help you.

Read on to find out more about what we do at Simon Levy Associates.

Our Services

Besides routinely providing expert planning application advice, our team can help you every step of the way. At Simon Levy Associates, we offer a range of services to help you settle any property disputes. Whether it’s a party wall problem or a construction dispute, our team specialise in supplying property advice as chartered building surveyors.

Making sure your property has no defects during its construction or renovation process is essential to preventing further problems. When left unchecked, a building with defects can be subject to detrimental and costly damage caused by weather and other factors, creating a huge loss that should have been prevented by the construction team. Construction expert witnesses can help to ensure detrimental loss is not an eventuality, by offering an impartial yet expert opinion.

Get In Touch

Find out more about us and our other services by visiting our website, where you can view our previous projects and full explanations of what’s on offer. Alternatively, please get in touch with our team directly for more information.

Why You Might Need a Commercial Survey

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 11:11:23 GMT

Investing in commercial property requires careful consideration and expert advice. For reliable property survey, commercial surveying, and building surveyor services in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, Simon Levy Associates is your go-to expert.

Read on to discover some of the reasons you might need a commercial property survey.

Understanding the Condition of the Property

Before investing in or altering a commercial property, understanding its current condition is crucial. Simon Levy Associates provides detailed structural surveys that identify potential issues, saving you from unforeseen costs and complications.

Legal Compliance and Planning Permissions

When making changes to a commercial property, legal compliance and obtaining necessary planning permissions are paramount. Simon Levy Associates' expertise in commercial surveying helps ensure that your property alterations meet all legal requirements.

Negotiating Property Purchases

A commercial survey can reveal defects and maintenance needs, providing leverage for negotiating purchase prices. Simon Levy Associates' thorough reports help you make informed decisions and potentially reduce the cost of your investment.

Planning for Future Maintenance

Understanding the maintenance needs of a property is essential for budgeting and planning. Simon Levy Associates' building surveys provide a clear picture of future maintenance requirements, helping you plan financially.

Minimising Risk in Property Investment

Commercial property investments come with inherent risks. A comprehensive survey by experienced building surveyors like Simon Levy Associates minimises these risks, ensuring a more secure investment.

Assessing Environmental and Safety Issues

Environmental and safety considerations are increasingly important in commercial property. Simon Levy Associates assesses these factors, advising on areas like energy efficiency, fire safety, and environmental hazards.

Tailored Advice for Property Development

Every commercial property is unique, and so are the challenges it presents. Simon Levy Associates offers tailored advice, taking into account the specific characteristics and requirements of your property.

Enhancing Property Value

A detailed survey can uncover ways to enhance the value of your commercial property. Simon Levy Associates' insights can guide renovations and improvements that increase both functionality and market value.

Expertise in Diverse Property Types

Simon Levy Associates' experience extends across a range of property types, from retail spaces to industrial buildings. This versatility ensures that they can provide expert advice, no matter the nature of your commercial property.

For expert commercial surveying services in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, trust Simon Levy Associates. Contact us today for professional advice and a survey that gives you confidence in your commercial property decisions. Your property's potential is our priority.

Tips for Party Wall Disputes

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 11:09:03 GMT

Handling party wall disputes requires expertise and tact. Simon Levy Associates offers essential advice for navigating these situations, so read on to find out more.

Understand the Party Wall Act

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is key in resolving disputes. Understanding your rights and obligations under this legislation is crucial. Simon Levy Associates can provide comprehensive party wall advice to ensure legal compliance and avoid potential conflicts.

Communicate Effectively

Open and clear communication with neighbours is vital in preventing and resolving disputes. Early discussions about planned works can help avoid misunderstandings and foster a cooperative approach to any party wall matters.

Use Expert Mediation

In cases where disputes arise, seeking expert mediation can be invaluable. Simon Levy Associates, with our extensive experience in property disputes, can act as a neutral party, helping to find a fair and amicable resolution.

Keep Detailed Records

Maintaining detailed records of all communications, agreements, and works carried out is essential. This documentation can be crucial if disputes escalate and require legal intervention.

Conduct a Thorough Survey

Before undertaking any work, conducting a thorough survey is important. Simon Levy Associates can provide detailed surveys that identify potential issues and help in planning work in a way that minimises disruption and damage to adjoining properties.

Understand Neighbours' Concerns

Listening to and understanding neighbours' concerns can go a long way in resolving party wall disputes. Empathy and a willingness to adjust plans can prevent disputes from escalating.

Seek Professional Advice Early

Seeking professional advice early in the process can prevent many common issues associated with party wall matters. Simon Levy Associates offers expert guidance to navigate these complex situations effectively.

Respect Neighbours' Rights

Respecting the rights of your neighbours is essential. Ensure that any work carried out is in line with legal requirements and does not unduly affect adjoining properties.

Consider Long-Term Relationships

Maintaining good relationships with your neighbours is important for long-term harmony. Consider the impact of your actions on these relationships, and strive for solutions that preserve good neighbourly relations.

Stay Informed and Updated

Party wall legislation and guidelines can change. Staying informed and updated on the latest developments is crucial. Simon Levy Associates keeps abreast of current laws and best practices, ensuring their advice is always relevant and accurate.

Party Wall Advice From Simon Levy

For expert party wall surveyor services and advice in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, contact Simon Levy Associates.

Visit our website to ensure your party wall matters are handled professionally and efficiently. Your peace of mind is our priority.

Tips for Making a Building Insurance Claim

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 11:06:47 GMT

Navigating a building insurance claim can be challenging. Here at Simon Levy Associates, we have written this guide to provide essential tips to simplify the process so read on to find out more.

Understand Your Policy

Before making a claim, thoroughly understand your insurance policy. Know what is covered and any specific procedures required by your insurer. Simon Levy Associates can help interpret complex insurance terms and conditions.

Act Promptly

Prompt action is crucial in insurance claims. Report the damage to your insurer as soon as possible. Delaying can complicate the claims process and potentially affect the outcome.

Document Everything

Document all damage meticulously. Take photographs, keep receipts of any emergency repairs, and make a detailed list of affected items. Simon Levy Associates can assist in professionally documenting the damage for your claim.

Get Professional Assessments

A professional assessment of the damage is vital. As experienced building insurance claim experts, we can provide accurate assessments that can support your claim.

Avoid Making Permanent Repairs

Avoid making permanent repairs before the insurance adjuster has assessed the damage. Temporary measures to prevent further damage are advisable, but permanent repairs should wait until after the insurance company's evaluation.

Keep Communication Records

Maintain records of all communications with your insurance company. This includes emails, letters, and notes from phone conversations. Keeping detailed records can be crucial if there are disputes later in the process.

Understand the Role of Insurance Adjusters

Insurance adjusters represent the insurance company and aim to settle claims efficiently. Understanding their role can help you navigate the process more effectively. Simon Levy Associates can act as your advocate, ensuring your interests are represented.

Be Prepared for Negotiations

Insurance claims often involve negotiations. Be prepared to discuss the extent of the damage and the cost of repairs. Simon Levy Associates' expertise in property damage can be invaluable in these discussions.

Consider Professional Help

Navigating a building insurance claim can be complex. Consider enlisting professional help from experienced surveyors like Simon Levy Associates. Our expertise can make the process smoother and help ensure a fair settlement.

Trust Simon Levy - Property Damage Experts

For expert assistance with your building insurance claim in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, contact Simon Levy Associates. Contact us today for professional support and guidance. Let us help you achieve a successful claim outcome.

How to Ensure Planning Application Success

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 11:03:59 GMT

Navigating the complexities of planning applications can be daunting. For those seeking planning application advice, property advice, or planning permission help in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London, Simon Levy Associates offers expert guidance to ensure your success.

Read on to find out more about this topic.

Understanding Local Regulations

The first step towards a successful planning application is understanding the local regulations and requirements. Simon Levy Associates' extensive experience in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London ensures we are well-versed in local planning laws. This knowledge is crucial in preparing applications that meet all necessary criteria.

Preparing Detailed Plans and Documents

A thorough and well-prepared application is key. Simon Levy Associates excels in creating detailed plans and supporting documents that clearly communicate the project's scope and impact. Our attention to detail minimises the chances of delays or rejections due to inadequate or unclear information.

Expert Liaison with Local Authorities

Effective communication with local authorities is vital. Simon Levy Associates has established strong relationships with local planning departments, enabling us to effectively negotiate and address any concerns or queries that may arise during the planning process.

Responding to Objections and Challenges

Addressing objections and challenges is a crucial part of the planning process. Simon Levy Associates' team is skilled in responding to such issues, presenting strong arguments and solutions to overcome potential hurdles and move the application forward.

Continuous Support and Guidance

From initial concept to final approval, Simon Levy Associates provides continuous support and guidance. Our commitment to client care ensures you are well-informed and confident throughout the entire process.

Planning Application Advice With Simon Levy

For personalised planning application advice, property advice, and planning permission help, contact Simon Levy Associates, the experts in Chartered Building Surveying in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London.

Contact us today or call 020 8207 6100 for a consultation tailored to your specific needs. Your successful planning application is our priority.

Plotting Success: The Ultimate Guide to Property Surveys

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 11:02:04 GMT

Nothing can be as disarming as discovering your property has issues as soon as it’s too late. Disasters can happen at any time, and be entirely unexpected. Thankfully, this article will explain what building surveyors do, as well as what risks they might identify. We’ll also cover how our team at Simon Levy can help, using our property surveying expertise.

When You Might Employ Building Surveyors

There are several reasons a person might choose to employ a professional to carry out a property survey. Building surveyors are fantastic at telling the inquirer important information about a property and any potential problems that may arise with it. We have listed a few common reasons a person might hire building surveyors.

Before Buying a House

While not a legal requirement, many solicitors recommend their clients get any potential properties surveyed before signing any contracts or agreements to move in. It could be that some details are hiding in the woodwork that were unknown before this.

Tenants Are Moving In

Renting out a property to new tenants can be an exciting prospect and a good way to make some money. To properly take care of your new tenants, it’s a good idea to have the building inspected for any issues before their imminent move. This way, you can deal with the issues quickly without the responsibility of tenants needing to be moved out.

The House Is Old

If you have lived in your home for several years, you may not think there is anything to worry about. It can be easy to have a false sense of security, as you feel that you know your home like the back of your hand. This is often, however, not the case.

Older houses were usually built with materials we would not use today. This could be for sourcing reasons, or because the materials pose a health and safety risk. Either way, it’s important to check these homes out.

The Property Surveying Process

The purpose of a Full Building Survey is to identify any risks in your property become they become an expensive or dangerous problem later on down the line. The inspection process itself should not take long. Having an understanding of what will happen at your property surveying appointment is a good way to prepare yourself for the measures a building surveyor will l take.

Inspecting Your Property

When it comes to inspecting a house there isn’t a definite list of the areas a surveyor will check, due to each property being entirely unique. Instead, a surveyor will assess which parts of the property are accessible to be checked, as well as which areas seem high risk.

The following accessible places may be inspected during a survey:

● Floors

● Walls

● Ventilation

● Staircases

● Thermal performance

● Sound insulation performance

● Any damp penetration

● Plaster

● Beams

● Fixtures and fittings

Alongside the internal and external checks of your property, the surveyor is likely to do some local research too. This could be examining the local Geological Survey Map, which can inform the surveyor of local geology issues. They may also check the history of the homes, to see if any major issues like flooding have happened previously.

Identifying Risks

Once all exploration of your property and other checks have been completed, a surveyor should be able to provide a full breakdown of the condition of your property. From there, they can provide advice on the steps you need to take to rectify any issues. They could also cover whether a price reduction is appropriate if the property surveyed is one you might like to own.

Examples of Risks

While the property advice varies depending on the professional, there are some risks that, if identified, should be monitored closely or resolved quickly. Read on to learn four examples of potential property risks, and how they can be fixed.

Asbestos

Once commonly used as an insulation solution, asbestos can be found in older homes. This material forms from naturally occurring minerals, crystallising to form fibres. It became a popular and widely used material due to its all-round resistant fibres. It cannot dissolve in water and is resistant to fire, chemicals and heat. It is also mechanically useful, which is why it was utilised in car brakes and boilers as well as insulation.

When breathed in, asbestos is considered harmful to human health. The material is now classed as carcinogenic, and all types have been banned in the UK since 1999. When still intact, asbestos is largely not harmful. When broken, on the other hand, the smaller fibres can be breathed in or swallowed, putting a person at risk. Asbestos issues can thankfully be resolved by being removed by a professional, who can replace it with modern insulation solutions such as fibreglass or wool.

Flooding

Unplanned water in your home can be a very dangerous problem. Flooding can destroy homes, as well as cause health issues for those trapped in flooding. For this reason, homes that are at risk of flooding often have more expensive insurance costs.

A building surveyor can generally help you learn whether you might be at risk of external flooding. Should this be the case, they might be able to provide property advice that helps with keeping your property safe from major damage. Unfortunately, flooding is largely unpredictable and is not easily prevented, however, you can take action against the level of damage it causes, and you can prepare for the flood itself.

Drainage Issues

When we think of drainage problems, we mostly think about blocked drains, caused by putting the wrong things down plugholes. Pipe problems are not always the homeowner's fault, however. Drainage systems that do not operate properly can happen simply with use, from incorrect installations, and from weather factors. Bent pipes and saggy guttering, for example, can snap and cause flooding issues outside.

Left undetected, flooding can cause internal moisture, which in turn results in dampness and mould. While building surveyors can only inspect accessible internal pipework, there are often a few telltale signs that flooding is happening undetected, prompting you to get in touch with a plumbing professional. Look for unexplained ceiling leaks in the rooms of your home, for example.

For drainage issues, it is best to seek the advice of a professional, to make sure it is fixed correctly.

Subsidence

This term refers to your property beginning to sink below the surface of the ground. It denotes an issue with the home foundations, creating further stability problems later on down the line. To help you learn about the causes of subsidence, we have listed a few culprits below.

Possible causes of subsidence:

● Types of soil

● Leaking from drains

● Tree roots too close to your home

● Property has been built on sites previously used for mining

Some signs indicate subsidence is already happening to the property, which a building survey will check the perimeter of your property for. Cracks are the major and most noticeable issue caused by subsidence and can be found on the inside and outside of your home. The appearance of wallpaper changing to look rippled around any joints is likewise a bad sign. Finally, doors and windows becoming jammed and stuck can indicate subsidence.

Get in touch with a professional for advice on resolving subsidence issues. It may be a simple solution, or a more intrusive fix, but is necessary for keeping your home safe.

Getting Property Advice

If you believe the building has been constructed incorrectly, you might be able to take action against the builder of the property. This is known as a building defect diagnosis, which can cause different resulting issues. This could include dampness, condensation, mould, structural movement, and distortion, putting your health at risk while living there.

If your home is brand-new and built specifically for your needs yet is somehow unsatisfactory, you may be able to seek construction dispute advice. This could be a quality of work issue, that might lead to further problems, such as though listed in the previous section. Getting a resolution is important, as it can be unpleasant to feel as though you have to live with the issue.

How We Can Help

Our team at Simon Levy are specialists in helping you determine whether there is anything wrong with your home, whether new or old. Our team offer high-quality professional services , including construction dispute advice , helping you get the home of your dreams with ease.

Visit our website to learn more about us and our team . We also have detailed information on our other services , allowing you to find the perfect solution. Get in touch today with our team to speak to our friendly staff.

Navigating Storm & Flood Damage: How Experts Can Help with Your Property Damage Claim

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 13:10:50 GMT

The recent wave of storms and flooding that have swept across the United Kingdom has left many homeowners grappling with the devastating aftermath of property damage. As communities come together to repair and rebuild, one crucial aspect that can alleviate the financial burden on affected individuals is the ability to make successful insurance claims.

In this article, we’ll explore the types of damage that may be eligible for claims, the significance of filing a claim and the invaluable assistance that property damage experts can provide in navigating the intricate process, allowing you to focus on making repairs to your home with one less stress to worry about.

Understanding Eligible Damage

The aftermath of storms and floods often leaves homes with a myriad of damages, ranging from structural issues to personal belongings. To ensure that you maximise your insurance claim, it's crucial to understand what types of damage are typically eligible for compensation.

Structural Damage

Roofs: High winds and heavy rainfall can lead to roof damage, such as missing shingles or structural compromise. In turn, this can let rainwater inside your home, causing additional water damage.

Walls and Foundations: Floodwaters can erode soil around foundations, leading to structural instability and cracks in walls. In addition to this, winds were reported to have reached up to 70mph in some areas of the UK, with others experiencing up to 94 mph winds; in such strong gusts, trees can blow over and loose objects (e.g. wheelie bins, debris etc.) are easily blown around, which can cause further damage to walls if they are impacted by these.

Windows and Doors: Strong winds and debris can cause damage to windows and doors, compromising the security and insulation of your home. Again, falling trees can also damage your windows and doors by impact, just as we mentioned they can with your walls.

Interior Damage

Flooring: Flooding can result in irreparable damage to carpets, hardwood floors and other types of flooring. If you do experience flood damage to your floors, then it’s vital that any affected areas are stripped to allow the underneath of the flooring to be dried properly, rather than simply surface drying - something which many insurers are often quick to avoid.

Electrical Systems: Water exposure can damage electrical wiring and appliances, posing a significant safety risk. If you experience significant water damage, ensure you turn off electrics at the plug and/or the fuse box to minimise risks of electrocution before the damage is assessed and addressed by a professional.

Personal Belongings: Homeowners can claim for the replacement or repair of personal belongings damaged during the storm or flood. This includes both exterior items, such as your car, that may have been damaged, as well as interior items.

Additional Expenses

Temporary Accommodation: If your home becomes uninhabitable, insurance policies may cover the costs of temporary accommodation. Whilst some damage may be contained to a certain area of a property and does not significantly affect your ability to stay there, other damage may pose a health and/or safety risk, making it imperative that you arrange alternative accommodation whilst repairs are carried out.

Removal and Cleanup: In some policies, the cost of removing debris and cleaning up after a storm or flood may also be covered, although it’s worth checking your particular policy to confirm whether or not this will be covered.

The Importance of Filing a Claim

Making a timely and accurate insurance claim is vital for homeowners looking to recover from the financial setback of property damage. Here are some compelling reasons why filing a claim should be a top priority.

Financial Relief

One of the primary reasons why promptly filing an insurance claim is essential for homeowners dealing with storm and flood damage lies in the financial relief it provides. These natural disasters can wreak havoc on homes, causing structural damage, interior harm and even the loss of personal belongings.

Without the financial assistance from an insurance claim, homeowners may find themselves grappling with the overwhelming burden of repair and replacement costs. On top of that, you’ll also have the stress and hassle of retrieving quotes from various contractors who may or may not agree to undertake the necessary repair works, not to mention you’ll want to ensure these are reliable and will get the job done both properly and promptly.

The coverage provided by insurance policies serves as a crucial lifeline, offering the necessary funds to expedite the restoration process and alleviate the financial strain that often accompanies such disasters, with the only cost you’ll have to cover being the excess on your policy.

Preventing Further Damage

Another critical aspect that underscores the importance of filing a timely insurance claim is the prevention of further damage to your property. Once your home has been subjected to the destructive forces of a storm or flooding, delays in the claims process can lead to additional deterioration. Swift action, on the other hand, not only halts the progression of damage but also minimises the risk of incurring additional expenses. By promptly reporting the extent of the destruction to your insurance provider, you contribute to the preservation of your property and a more efficient recovery process.

Policy Protection

Filing an insurance claim in the aftermath of a storm or flood is not merely a matter of convenience; it is a contractual obligation that ensures the protection of your policy. Insurance policies come with terms and conditions that dictate the timeframe within which claims must be reported. Failing to adhere to these guidelines may result in the denial of your claim, leaving you without the financial support you desperately need. Timely reporting, therefore, is not just a procedural requirement, but a proactive measure to safeguard your entitlements under the terms of your insurance policy.

Peace of Mind

Perhaps one of the most significant advantages of filing an insurance claim promptly is the peace of mind it affords homeowners during the challenging recovery period. Knowing that you have initiated the claims process and that financial assistance is on the way can alleviate the constant worry about mounting expenses.

This peace of mind allows homeowners to focus their energy on the crucial task of rebuilding and recovery, fostering a sense of stability amid the chaos caused by the storm or flood. It transforms the daunting prospect of rebuilding into a manageable and structured process, enabling homeowners to navigate the challenges with resilience and confidence.

The Role of Building Insurance Experts

Whilst filing an insurance claim in the event of flood or storm damage is important, navigating this intricate process can be overwhelming, especially when faced with the complexities of storm and flood damage and the jargon involved in your policy documents.

Dealing with insurers yourself can be frustrating, especially when it’s in their best interest to cut corners and prioritise speed over quality when dealing with your claim. As professional property damage experts, we are well-versed in the nuances of insurance claims here at Simon Levy, and our assistance can significantly enhance the likelihood of a successful and maximised claim.

Listed below are some of the ways utilising our assistance can enhance the likelihood of your claim being accepted, the speed with which it is processed and the chances of maximised compensation.

Assessment and Documentation

Our experts will conduct thorough assessments of the damage to your property, documenting every detail meticulously. We know what to look out for and will ensure that all damage to your property that is eligible to be claimed for is noted. This comprehensive documentation serves as crucial evidence during the claims process.

Policy Understanding

Insurance policies are often laden with jargon and complexities. As professionals, we possess a deep understanding of insurance policies, ensuring that you as the homeowner fully comprehend your coverage and entitlements, as well as ensure that your insurer effectively adheres to these.

Negotiation with Insurers

Our property damage experts are skilled negotiators who will advocate on your behalf. We will engage with insurance companies and their instructed insurance adjusters to agree on the damage and secure the best possible settlement, ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your losses.

By letting us deal with your insurers on your behalf, this is one less stress for you to worry about and frees up your time to focus on other pressing issues, such as getting your home back in order.

Accelerated Claims Process

The expertise of our professionals expedites the claims process. Our knowledge allows for swift and accurate submission of necessary documents and omits unnecessary back-and-forth correspondence with insurers, subsequently reducing delays in you receiving compensation.

Maximised Compensation

By leveraging our experience, we are able to identify all eligible damages and ensure that nothing is overlooked. This meticulous approach results in you receiving the maximum compensation available under your policy, reducing the financial burdens you face significantly.

Insurance Claim Advice from Simon Levy Associates

By understanding the types of damage eligible for claims, the importance of timely filing and the benefits of seeking professional help, you can position yourself to make the most of your insurance coverage. As property damage experts, we play a crucial role in this process, ensuring a thorough assessment, policy comprehension, effective negotiation and, ultimately, the maximisation of your compensation.

Get in touch with us today for expert advice on and help with making your property damage insurance claim .

Why Your Commercial Building Might Need a Building Defect Diagnosis

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 13:07:10 GMT

In the dynamic world of commercial property, staying ahead of potential building issues is key. Simon Levy, a distinguished building surveyor serving the Greater London area, emphasises the importance of building defect diagnosis for commercial properties. This blog delves into why such assessments are crucial, offering valuable property advice for owners and managers.

Early Identification of Potential Issues

A building defect diagnosis plays a pivotal role in identifying potential issues before they escalate. Regular inspections by professional building surveyors can detect early signs of wear and tear, structural problems, or safety hazards. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent costly repairs and downtime in the future.

Ensuring Compliance and Safety

Commercial properties must adhere to strict safety and building regulations. A comprehensive defect diagnosis helps ensure your property meets these standards. Building surveyors can identify areas of non-compliance, offering actionable advice to rectify these issues, thus safeguarding the well-being of occupants and visitors.

Protecting Your Investment

For commercial property owners, their building is often a significant investment. Regular defect diagnosis by qualified building surveyors can help maintain the property's value by ensuring it remains in optimal condition. This proactive approach can be a deciding factor in the property's long-term financial performance.

Enhancing Energy Efficiency and Sustainability

Today's commercial surveying includes a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. A defect diagnosis can reveal opportunities to improve energy usage, potentially leading to reduced operational costs and a smaller carbon footprint. Implementing these changes not only benefits the environment but also enhances the property’s appeal to eco-conscious tenants and clients.

The Role of Professional Building Surveyors

Professional building surveyors, like Simon Levy, bring expertise and a detailed understanding of commercial properties. Their assessments go beyond superficial checks, delving into structural integrity, building systems, and compliance with the latest regulations. This level of detail is crucial in commercial surveying to ensure thorough and accurate defect diagnosis.

Tailored Property Advice for Your Needs

Every commercial property is unique, with its own set of challenges and requirements. Simon Levy provides tailored property advice, ensuring that your building's defect diagnosis is specific to your property's needs. This personalised approach guarantees that you receive the most relevant and effective recommendations.

Securing Your Commercial Property's Future With Simon Levy

In summary, a building defect diagnosis is an indispensable tool for any commercial property owner or manager. It safeguards your investment, ensures compliance and safety, and paves the way for sustainable practices. With the expertise of a professional building surveyor like Simon Levy, you can navigate these challenges with confidence.

Protect your investment and secure your property's future with our comprehensive building surveys. Contact Simon Levy today for expert commercial surveying and property advice.

Why You Might Need an Expert Witness

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 13:04:06 GMT

In the complex world of property and construction, disputes are not uncommon. Simon Levy, a seasoned building surveyor, explains why an expert witness is essential in certain situations. This blog outlines the significance of a construction expert witness in resolving property disputes and offers professional property advice.

Clarifying Technical Details

Construction and property disputes often involve complex technical details that can be difficult for those outside the industry to understand. An expert witness, with their deep understanding of construction processes and property law, can distil these complexities into clear, comprehensible information. This clarity is vital in ensuring that all parties, including the court, fully understand the intricacies of the case.

Establishing Credibility

In legal disputes, credibility is key. An expert witness, renowned in their field, like Simon Levy, brings a level of authority and trustworthiness to your case. Their professional opinion is often seen as more credible and unbiased, which can be influential in the outcome of a property dispute.

Assessing Liability and Responsibility

Property disputes often boil down to liability and responsibility. Whether it's a construction defect, a breach of contract, or a disagreement over property boundaries, an expert witness can objectively assess the situation. Their analysis can identify who is at fault, to what extent, and what the appropriate remediation might be. This objective assessment by a construction expert witness is crucial in resolving disputes fairly and efficiently.

Supporting Settlement Negotiations

Often, the involvement of an expert witness can encourage parties to settle out of court. Their authoritative advice can provide a realistic perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of each party's case. This insight can be instrumental in guiding settlement negotiations, potentially saving time and resources for all involved.

Why Simon Levy?

Simon Levy's expertise as a building surveyor and construction expert witness makes us an invaluable asset in property disputes. Our extensive knowledge and experience in the field enable us to provide precise and reliable property advice. Simon Levy’s assessments and testimonies are not just opinions; they are informed by years of practice and a deep understanding of property and construction nuances.

Conclusion: Expertise Matters in Dispute Resolution

When embroiled in a property dispute, the guidance of an expert witness can be the deciding factor in a successful resolution. Their expertise can clarify complexities, establish credibility, assess liability, and facilitate settlements.

Facing a property dispute and need expert guidance? Contact Simon Levy for professional property advice and experienced representation as a construction expert witness. Ensure your case stands on solid ground with Simon’s expertise. Call or email today to schedule a consultation.

Changes to Planning Applications in 2024

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 13:01:37 GMT

The landscape of planning applications has undergone significant changes in 2024, affecting property owners and developers everywhere, including areas covered by Simon Levy such as Borehamwood, Watford, and the Greater London area. Understanding these changes is crucial for anyone looking to embark on property development or renovation projects. Here at Simon Levy, as seasoned building surveyors, we have put together this guide to shed light on these updates, offering valuable property advice and planning application guidance.

Key Modifications in Planning Application Processes

The most notable change in 2024 is the introduction of a streamlined online submission process. This digital shift aims to reduce paperwork and speed up the application process. However, it requires applicants to be more precise in their documentation. Property surveys have become more critical, with a greater emphasis on environmental impact assessments and community integration.

Another major change is the increased scrutiny of building materials and construction methods. The government's focus on sustainability has led to stricter regulations, ensuring new constructions are energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Impact on Property Development and Renovations

For property developers and homeowners planning renovations, these changes mean a more rigorous planning application process. Simon Levy emphasises the importance of thorough property surveys before submitting applications. Detailed surveys can highlight potential challenges and compliance issues, significantly improving the chances of application approval.

Simon Levy's Expert Planning Application Advice

Navigating the complexities of these new regulations can be daunting. Simon Levy's expertise in property advice and planning application guidance comes into play here. With our in-depth knowledge of local regulations and an eye for detail in property surveys, we can ensure your applications align with the latest requirements.

Embracing the Future of Property Development

These changes, while challenging, present an opportunity for innovative and sustainable property development. Embracing these new standards can lead to more efficient, eco-friendly, and community-focused projects. Simon Levy encourages developers and homeowners to view these changes as stepping stones towards a more sustainable future in property development.

Staying Informed and Prepared

To stay ahead in the evolving landscape of planning applications, it's essential to remain informed and prepared. Regular consultations with experts like Simon Levy can provide you with up-to-date property advice and ensure your projects comply with the latest regulations.

The 2024 changes to planning applications bring new challenges but also new opportunities for property development in Borehamwood, Watford, and Greater London. With Simon Levy's expert guidance, navigating these changes becomes less daunting. Whether it's detailed property surveys or tailored planning application advice, we are here to assist you every step of the way.

Contact Simon Levy for expert property advice and planning application guidance tailored to your project's needs.

5 Reasons to Have a Dilapidation Inspection Performed

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 12:58:47 GMT

As a property owner or tenant, ensuring that your building is in good condition is crucial to maintaining its value and complying with lease obligations. One essential aspect of this process is a dilapidations inspection, conducted by experienced dilapidations surveyors. In this blog post, we'll explore five compelling reasons why you should consider having a dilapidations inspection performed for your property in Borehamwood, Watford or Greater London.

Lease Compliance and Legal Obligations

Lease agreements typically include clauses related to the condition in which the property should be returned at the end of the lease term. Failing to meet these requirements can result in legal disputes and financial penalties. A dilapidation inspection, carried out by qualified surveyors, helps you identify and address any necessary repairs or maintenance before they become costly legal issues. This proactive approach ensures that you comply with lease obligations and protect your interests.

Cost-Effective Maintenance Planning

Regular dilapidations inspections enable property owners and tenants to identify potential issues early on, allowing for cost-effective planning and budgeting. By addressing maintenance needs promptly, you can prevent minor problems from escalating into major, more expensive repairs. This strategic approach not only saves you money in the long run but also contributes to the overall longevity and value of your property.

Property Value Preservation

Maintaining the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of your property is essential for preserving its value. A dilapidation inspection provides a comprehensive assessment of the building's condition, identifying areas that require attention. Addressing these issues promptly ensures that your property remains in good condition, enhancing its market value and attractiveness to potential buyers or tenants.

Negotiation Power During Lease Renewal

For tenants looking to renew their lease, a dilapidations inspection can be a powerful negotiating tool. Identifying and rectifying any required repairs before lease renewal discussions commence can strengthen your position and potentially lead to more favourable terms. On the flip side, property owners can use the inspection findings to justify lease conditions and ensure that the property is returned in an acceptable state.

Peace of Mind for Landlords and Tenants

Finally, scheduling a dilapidation inspection provides peace of mind for both landlords and tenants. Landlords can rest assured that their property is being well-maintained, while tenants can avoid last-minute surprises and budget for any necessary repairs. This collaborative and transparent approach fosters positive relationships between property owners and tenants, contributing to a smoother leasing experience for all parties involved.

Count on Our Dilapidation Surveyors

Contact Simon Levy today to schedule your dilapidations inspection and ensure the health and value of your property. Our experienced surveyors are ready to assist you in Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London.

5 Things You May Not Know About Building Surveyors

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:50:53 GMT

Building surveyors ensure that buildings are safe, compliant, and fit for purpose. While you may have a brief understanding of the tasks and requirements of the role, there are many little-known facts about building surveyors that you may not be aware of. Read on to learn five things you may not know about the important world of building surveyors.

They have a range of responsibilities

Contrary to popular belief, building surveyors are not limited to conducting building inspections alone. Their responsibilities encompass a wide range of tasks, including:

● assessing building defects

● conducting condition surveys

● providing advice on building regulations and compliance

● overseeing building projects

● offering expert witness services in legal disputes

Building surveyors are highly skilled professionals with a thorough understanding of construction, engineering, and building regulations, making them a valuable asset to the construction industry.

They help ensure safety

Building surveyors play an important role in ensuring that buildings adhere to safety and regulatory standards. They meticulously review building plans, conduct on-site inspections, and assess compliance with building codes, fire safety regulations, accessibility requirements, and energy efficiency standards. Through these detailed inspections and expert advice, building surveyors contribute to the creation of safe and sustainable built environments.

They mediate between stakeholders

Building surveyors often act as mediators between various stakeholders involved in the construction process. They collaborate with architects, engineers, contractors, and clients to ensure that construction projects progress smoothly and meet the required standards. Building surveyors can help resolve conflicts, address design challenges, and provide practical solutions that balance the needs and expectations of all parties involved.

They embrace technological advancements

The world of building surveyors has embraced technological advancements to deliver more accurate and efficient results. Building surveyors often use advanced tools such as 3D laser scanning, drones, and Building Information Modelling (BIM) to capture detailed data, create accurate building models, and identify potential issues before they arise. These technologies enable building surveyors to provide clients with more comprehensive insights into the condition and performance of buildings.

They keep up with trends

To stay at the forefront of their field, building surveyors must constantly keep updated on industry trends and development - this involves attending workshops, seminars, and training programs to enhance their knowledge and skills. These professionals also need to keep up with the latest building regulations and construction techniques to provide clients with the most up-to-date advice and services. Simon Levy Associates are highly recommended building surveyors, based in Borehamwood but with coverage around the wider vicinity. Boasting over three decades of experience, we provide impartial and expert property advice, surveying your home, checking for any defects along the way - to find out more about our project management services, please get in touch with us today.

Common Building Defects: Identifying and Addressing Issues

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:43:03 GMT

Building defects can significantly impact the functionality, safety, and visual appeal of a structure. It’s therefore essential for homeowners, property developers, and building professionals to be aware of common building defects in order to keep properties in their best condition. In this blog, we will explore five common building defects, their causes, and potential solutions.

Structural deficiencies

Structural issues are among the most serious building defects, posing risks to the safety and stability of a building - common causes include poor construction practices, weak reinforcement, foundation settlement, or exposure to extreme weather conditions. Signs of these structural deficiencies may include cracks in walls or ceilings, uneven floors, or sagging roofs. Addressing these defects typically requires the services of a structural engineer, who will assess the extent of the damage and recommend appropriate repairs or reinforcements if necessary.

Water infiltration and dampness

Water infiltration and dampness can lead to a multitude of problems, including mould growth, deterioration of building materials, and compromised indoor air quality. Common sources of water infiltration include leaky roofs, poorly sealed windows, faulty plumbing, or inadequate ventilation. Preventive measures may include repairing or replacing damaged roof tiles, improving insulation, installing proper drainage systems, or using moisture-resistant materials.

Faulty electrical systems

Faulty electrical systems pose fire hazards and electrical safety risks. Common electrical defects include outdated wiring, inadequate grounding, overloaded circuits, or faulty switches and outlets - these problems can result in power outages, electrical shocks, or even electrical fires. It’s therefore important to have electrical systems inspected by a qualified electrician to ensure compliance with safety standards and regulations. Upgrading outdated wiring, installing additional outlets, and using circuit breakers can help manage electrical defects and improve safety.

Deficient insulation

Inadequate insulation can lead to energy inefficiency, home discomfort, and increased utility bills. Common insulation defects include insufficient insulation, poorly installed insulation, or gaps and voids in insulation materials - these issues can result in heat loss during winter and heat gain during summer. Proper insulation helps maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduces energy consumption - measures may involve adding or replacing insulation in walls, roofs, and floors, as well as sealing gaps and cracks to enhance thermal performance.

Poor plumbing and drainage

Plumbing and drainage defects can cause water leaks, blockages, and damage to the building's structure or finishes. Common issues include leaking pipes, clogged drains, faulty fixtures, or inadequate water pressure - these defects can result in water damage, mould growth, or even structural deterioration. Working with a professional plumber to conduct regular inspections, repair leaks, clear blockages, and ensure proper drainage can help prevent plumbing-related issues and maintain the integrity of the building's water supply and waste disposal systems. Simon Levy Associates - the reliable building surveyors for you - are experienced in diagnosing building defects (including subsidence damage) and are engaged to design, specify and administer/monitor/inspect repair projects from inception to completion. For dilapidation services and expert property advice, get in touch today.

The Advantages of Carrying Out a Structural Survey

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:39:42 GMT

By conducting a thorough inspection, a structural survey provides valuable insights into the condition of a building's structure. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of carrying out a structural survey and explain how it can help ensure safety and identify potential issues.

Identifying structural deficiencies

Structural surveys can identify potential structural deficiencies. A qualified structural engineer will conduct a comprehensive inspection, examining the foundation, walls, floors, roof, and other structural elements - this can reveal hidden issues such as cracks, settlement, inadequate reinforcement, or signs of structural instability. The early detection of these deficiencies allows for swift action, preventing further damage and potentially expensive repairs in the future.

Ensuring safety and peace of mind

A structurally sound building is important for the safety and well-being of its occupants, and carrying out a structural survey provides assurance that the property meets safety standards and regulations. By identifying potential hazards, such as weak foundations or compromised load-bearing structures, a structural survey helps reduce the risk of accidents or structural failures. This knowledge provides peace of mind for homeowners or potential buyers, knowing that they are investing in a safe and secure property.

Assessing property value

When purchasing a property, knowing its structural condition allows for a more accurate assessment of its value. If significant structural issues are identified, negotiations can be made to account for the cost of necessary repairs or renovations - on the other hand, a positive structural survey report can improve the property's value, as it assures potential buyers of its quality and condition. Therefore, a structural survey serves as a valuable tool in making informed decisions regarding property investments.

Planning renovations and improvements

For those planning renovations or improvements, a structural survey is essential. It provides a basic understanding of the existing structure, allowing architects, engineers, and contractors to design and execute renovations effectively. The survey will identify any potential challenges, which helps avoid costly mistakes or design changes during the construction phase.

Compliance with building regulations

A structural survey ensures compliance with local building regulations, which often require structural assessments for certain types of properties or renovations. By conducting a structural survey, property owners can ensure that their building meets certain legal requirements - this not only avoids potential legal issues but also ensures the safety and quality of the construction work. Here at Simon Levy Associates, we want to help you avoid costly repairs right after you have bought your property. With our team of structural surveyors, you don't need to risk buying a property that could turn into a nightmare to fix. For more information on property inspections and commercial surveying, please get in touch with us today.

The Many Benefits of Hiring a Construction Expert Witness

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:37:42 GMT

Construction projects can sometimes produce disputes, conflicts, and legal challenges. In these cases, hiring a construction expert witness can be a sensible decision. In this blog, we will explore the benefits of hiring a construction expert witness and explain how they can contribute to the resolution of construction-related disputes.

Expertise and experience

Construction expert witnesses possess in-depth knowledge and expertise in various areas of the construction industry. Their background may include experience in architecture, engineering, project management, or construction law. With this specialised knowledge, they can analyse complex technical issues, evaluate construction practices, and provide informed opinions on matters such as building defects, design errors, construction delays, or adherence to industry standards.

Objective analysis

Another significant benefit of hiring a construction expert witness is their impartiality. These professionals will provide an unbiased analysis of the facts, evidence, and technical aspects of a case. As independent professionals, they do not have any personal stake in the outcome of the dispute, ensuring that their opinions are objective and based on their professional expertise. This impartial analysis can help parties involved in the dispute gain a clearer understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of their respective positions, facilitating fairer resolutions.

Strengthening legal arguments

The expert opinions of construction expert witnesses carry significant weight in courtrooms or arbitration proceedings. By providing detailed reports, conducting thorough investigations, and presenting credible evidence, they can improve the credibility and persuasiveness of a party's legal arguments. Their testimony can help clarify complex technical issues, challenge opposing expert opinions, and provide a solid foundation for legal claims or defences.

Time and money saving

Hiring a construction expert witness can also contribute to cost and time efficiency in resolving construction disputes. With specialised knowledge and experience, they can accelerate the fact-finding process, identify key issues, and provide expert opinions promptly. Their involvement can help streamline the legal proceedings, potentially leading to quicker resolutions and reducing legal costs people may have to pay. Additionally, their expertise can assist in identifying potential areas of settlement or alternative dispute resolution - this saves parties both time and money that would otherwise be spent on lengthy court proceedings.

Preventing future disputes

Beyond resolving existing disputes, construction expert witnesses can also play a proactive role in minimising future risks. By identifying construction defects, design flaws, or a lack of compliance with industry standards, they can provide recommendations for improvements and preventative measures.

Frequently appointed as a construction expert witness, Simon Levy can provide impartial expert opinion on various property disputes. We have extensive knowledge of diagnosing building defects through our 30 years of experience and we’re able to provide the Courts with our construction expert witness services. For more information, get in touch today.

Buying a Home: The Importance of a Property Survey

Wed, 06 Dec 2023 09:18:37 GMT

So, you’re planning on buying a property? Congratulations! This is one of the biggest investments you’re likely to make in life, one that offers security, a sense of achievement and a place to call home. Of course, in making such a large transaction, you’ll want to ensure that everything is in order before going ahead and exchanging contracts.

This is why it’s in your best interest to arrange a property survey before signing the dotted line and having the deeds of the house transferred to your name. Doing so ensures that you’re investing your money in the right property and avoids you facing additional costs further down the line that could otherwise be predicted.

In this guide, we’ll explore all you need to know regarding property surveys and their importance in the process of buying a property, including what they are, why they’re recommended and what they include.

What is a Property Survey?

A property survey is a type of building inspection whereby the condition of the property you’re planning on buying is examined. This type of survey must always be carried out by a professional chartered surveyor, who will predominantly look at different aspects of the building’s condition in relation to its structural integrity, reporting back on whether there are any areas for concern or improvement.

Whilst a survey is not a legal requirement when buying a property, it is advised, since it offers you further advice and information regarding the property you’re planning to invest in. There are also different levels of surveys that you can choose to have, with these ranging in price based on how comprehensive they are.

Different Types of Surveys

Condition Report

A condition report is the most basic form of property survey that you can get. This report will highlight any risks or defects in the property that are serious or require urgent attention and will need to be fixed before you consider moving into it.

These reports don’t go into a great amount of detail other than this, offering more of a brief overview of the property’s condition. This lack of detail makes condition reports ideal for newly built homes, since these are unlikely to have any major defects, however a more comprehensive survey is advised for previously owned homes.

Homebuyer Report

Homebuyer reports are more in-depth reports that highlight issues that could affect the property’s value, along with any ongoing maintenance that needs to be addressed (e.g. subsidence or damp).

Whilst more detailed than a condition report, it’s important to note that these reports will only cover matters that are reasonably accessible to the surveyor. For example, they won’t drill into walls or look under floorboards to inspect the hidden aspects of the property.

In some cases, it’s also possible to receive a valuation as part of a homebuyer report. This will estimate the property’s market value, which can be used to negotiate the price if quoted lower than your initially accepted offer.

Full House Survey

The most comprehensive of all these reports is a full house survey . This will provide you with a detailed report on all aspects of the property’s condition. The surveyor will inspect and assess both visible defects and potential hidden problems within the property, including inside walls, under floors, chimneys, lofts and basements, as well as check the performance of services such as heating and drainage.

They will list any defects that are found and advise any repairs and maintenance that should be carried out.

These surveys are especially recommended for older properties, listed properties or those where extensive renovation is planned/required. In having extensive knowledge of the property’s condition, then you will be able to consider the scope of work that may be required to maintain or repair the property and the costs involved, which can then be factored into your financial situation.

Why Have a Survey Carried Out?

Many people see arranging a building survey as an additional step in the home-buying process that can be avoided - after all, they’re only optional. In fact, research shows that only 25% of all homeowners purchase a property survey for their new home.

However, despite this mindset, there are a number of benefits to getting a home survey that make this additional cost and step in the process highly worth it; why wouldn’t you want to take preventative measures to avoid remedial ones?

We’ve listed the key reasons why it’s in your best interest to arrange a survey for the property you’re looking to buy.

Avoid Potential Costs Later Down the Line

One of the key reasons why many new (and established) homeowners choose not to arrange a survey is because they don’t want to pay this additional cost. Depending on the value of your chosen property, a condition report could cost you anywhere between £300-£900, while a homebuyer report could cost between £400-£1,000 and a full house survey even more at £600-£1,500.

Whilst it’s understandable to want to avoid this additional expense, especially considering that surveys are optional, it may actually work out as financially beneficial to have a survey carried out.

By arranging a survey, you will be able to determine what and how many repairs or maintenance work will be required from a property, the costs of which you can then work out if they aren’t already listed (depending on the level of survey you opt for). This information allows you to determine how feasible it would be for you to pay these costs later on down the road, which may even impact your buying decision.

It’s helpful to consider the following: if you can’t justify/afford the cost of a survey, would you be able to afford any surprise repairs?

Negotiate the Property Price

Leading on from the previous point, surveys can also save you money as they put you in a better position to negotiate on the price of the property. If repairs are required, you have the option to either ask the seller to address these issues and carry out repairs before you move in, or reduce the property price to reflect the amount these repairs will cost.

Either solution works out as being more cost-effective for you, saving you from having to pay the initial offer price for the property and cover repairs costs on top of that.

Surveyors Take an Impartial, Objective Look at a Property

By instructing your own surveyor, you can rest assured that you will receive an objective report that doesn’t skimp on any details. They won’t downplay any issues and will ensure that they look at all aspects of the property relative to the survey level you pay for.

This helps you to make an informed decision that hasn’t been impacted by bias, for example persuasion from the estate agent selling the property on behalf of the current owner. Buying a home is a huge investment to make, and whilst it may feel like you lose money if you pay for a survey only to not go through with buying the property, in hindsight this is far better than spending such a large expense then losing more money on top of said expense due to repairs.

What Does a Full House Survey Include?

If you opt for an extensive building inspection, also known as a Level 3 survey, then you can expect your surveyor to do the following:

● Record details of construction materials used throughout the building

● Assess the ceilings, walls, floors, fireplaces, staircases, woodwork and bathroom fittings

● Assess the roof, chimney, guttering, exterior walls, windows and doors

● Identify and advise on any defects or repairs that need to be addressed

● Estimate costs of any repairs and maintenance

● Test for damp and wood damage

● Recommend follow up inspections

● Check services, including water, heating, electricity, gas, drainage

● Check the energy efficiency rating of the property

● Make a valuation (this may be included as an additional service)

All of this information will be written up in a report, which will feature room-by-room descriptions and a detailed analysis of the building’s condition, along with any photographs as supportive evidence to document this information.

Arrange Your Property Inspection Today

Here at Simon Levy Associates, we want to help you avoid costly repairs right after you’ve bought your property. Our team of expert structural surveyors are here to help carry out a full survey before you commit to anything.

Operating in Borehamwood, Barnet and Watford, we are here to fully appraise your situation and help inform you to the best of our ability before your purchase. With over 30 years of experience, you can count on our services.

For more information regarding our professional services or to request a quote, then don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.

Navigating Building Insurance Claims: Tips for Success

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 15:26:57 GMT

Making a building insurance claim can be a challenging process, especially when you're dealing with damage or loss to your property. For Simon Levy, understanding the ins and outs of the insurance claim process is essential. In this article, we'll provide valuable insights and tips on how to make a successful building insurance claim, with a focus on working with insurance adjusters and building surveyors.

Understanding Building Insurance Claims

Before delving into the specifics, it's crucial to understand the basics. Building insurance claims are filed when your property sustains damage due to unforeseen circumstances, such as natural disasters, accidents, or theft. These claims are intended to help property owners recover financially from the incurred losses.

The Role of Insurance Adjusters

Insurance adjusters are professionals hired by insurance companies to assess the validity of your claim and determine the amount of compensation you're entitled to. They play a crucial role in the claims process.

Tips for a Successful Building Insurance Claim

Documenting the Damage

One of the first steps when making an insurance claim is thoroughly documenting the damage. This includes taking photos, videos, and written descriptions of the affected areas. This evidence will be essential when working with insurance adjusters.

Timely Reporting

Notify your insurance company promptly after the damage occurs. Timely reporting is crucial to ensure that the claim process begins as soon as possible, allowing you to start the necessary repairs or replacements without delay.

Review Your Policy

Carefully review your insurance policy to understand what is covered and what isn't. It's essential to have a clear understanding of your coverage before filing a claim to avoid potential disputes with the insurance company.

Working with Building Surveyors

Building surveyors can be invaluable allies during the insurance claim process. They have expertise in assessing property damage and can provide professional insights and documentation that can support your claim. Building surveyors can work with you to ensure that the repairs or replacements meet local building codes and regulations. Their expertise can help you navigate the restoration process smoothly and in compliance with legal requirements.

Working with Insurance Adjusters

When working with insurance adjusters, maintain open and honest communication. Be transparent about the damage and provide them with all the documentation they need to assess your claim accurately. Insurance adjusters may initially offer a settlement that doesn't fully cover your losses. Don't hesitate to negotiate and advocate for fair compensation. Building surveyors' reports can be instrumental in supporting your case during negotiations.

Help With Building Insurance Claims From Simon Levy

In conclusion, successfully making a building insurance claim requires a thorough understanding of the process, effective communication with insurance adjusters, and the support of building surveyors. By documenting damage, reporting promptly, and collaborating with professionals, Simon Levy can navigate the complexities of insurance claims with confidence and increase the likelihood of a positive outcome.

Get in touch with us today to find out more about how we can help.

The Power of Planning Permission

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 15:03:47 GMT

Navigating the complex world of planning permission requires meticulous planning and adherence to regulations. For chartered building surveyors like Simon Levy, understanding the importance of obtaining planning permission is crucial.

In this article, we'll delve into the significance of planning permission

Understanding Planning Permission

Planning permission is essentially official consent from your local authority to carry out certain building and development projects. It ensures that your proposed changes or construction aligns with local zoning laws and regulations. Obtaining planning permission is a legal requirement in many jurisdictions, and violating it can lead to costly consequences. One of the primary reasons for obtaining planning permission is to ensure your project complies with local regulations. Each area may have specific rules regarding the use, size, and design of properties. Consulting with a building surveyor can provide you with valuable guidance on how to meet these requirements.

Property Advice for Success

Simon Levy is interested in maximising the value and success of projects. Obtaining planning permission can significantly impact the value of your property. Ignoring planning permission can result in legal troubles, delays, and costly penalties. Working with a building surveyor can help you ensure that your project complies with all local regulations, reducing the risk of legal complications.

Planning Application Advice

The planning application process can be intricate and time-consuming. It involves filling out forms, submitting detailed plans, and potentially facing objections from surrounding businesses and residents. Seeking planning application advice from professionals can make this process smoother and increase your chances of approval.

Building surveyors have the expertise to create comprehensive planning applications. They can help you present your project in the best possible light, addressing potential concerns and demonstrating that your proposal aligns with local zoning laws.

Insights from Building Surveyors

Building surveyors, like the team here at Simon Levy, play a pivotal role in the planning permission process. We are knowledgeable about local regulations and can provide valuable insights on how to navigate the system. Building surveyors can conduct thorough site assessments to evaluate the feasibility of your project. We can identify potential challenges and offer solutions, ensuring that your project has the best chance of success.

Planning Application Advice From Simon Levy

Planning permission is not just a bureaucratic hurdle; it is an essential aspect of property. It offers numerous benefits, including legal compliance, increased property value, and a streamlined approval process. To achieve these advantages, seek property advice, planning application advice, and insights from building surveyors who can guide you through the intricate process such as the team here at Simon Levy.

By obtaining planning permission and working with professionals, you can unlock the full potential of your projects. Get in touch today to find out more.

An Introductory Guide To Construction Dispute Resolution

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 15:01:47 GMT

The relationship between a builder or company, and their clients is often a tricky one, and this is complicated further by the commonality of minor issues and inadequacies when it comes to their work. Whether stemming from a badly done job, triggered by a minor issue blown out of proportion, or even relating to serious misconduct, there are many reasons an argument may have occurred, and in an ideal world, all roads should lead back to resolving matters in a civil manner. Though hardly ever that simple, Simon Levy are on-hand to provide specialist consultancy assistance, conscious of your needs, whether you’re on the receiving end of a badly botched job, or you’re defending the legitimacy and quality of your building work. Read ahead for an informative and exhaustive guide.

In Simple Terms

In the most basic of terms, construction disputes usually occur because of a disagreement between two parties - often with a contract concerned. The issue may stem from individual behaviour, an unwillingness to follow contractually significant terms, or all manner of niche problems that can’t be clarified in a civil manner. It’s not difficult to determine how issues can arise, as not every construction project runs to plan, finishes on time or sticks to the originally assigned budget. Standards of workmanship or the costs of works may be disputed, and when this happens, one party may place blame on the other. Our experienced and legally competent construction dispute consultants at Simon Levy Associates can assist you with any dispute resolution, as we’ve dealt with assorted inter-party issues in the past, and continue to do so.

Preparing And Preventing

Disputes may be an accepted part of working in construction for some, but it certainly doesn’t have to be that way, especially if you put preventative measures in place to stop them occurring. Preparing for any eventuality, there are at least some precautions to establish. Using clear language in contracts and leaving little room for misunderstanding is perhaps one of the most significant ways to prevent complications at a later date. This sets out expectations and means that the window for potential confusion is significantly narrower. Guarantee there is a risk management strategy in place, hone communication and remain receptive to any queries - whether you’re the driving force behind a large project, or you’re responsible for sourcing a builder.

Common Grievances

When disputes do occur, they can often be fit into one of a few categories, from contractors neglecting responsibilities, to builders completing poor quality work. Other frequent talking points include delayed payments, stalled or poor communication and even false charges in some instances. Whatever the issue may be, there’s more than one way to resolve it, and often this can be done without going down the legal route. Only sometimes will a disagreement escalate to the point of multiple parties settling on a legal resolution, and before this becomes necessary, seeking professional help may save time and expense. Rest assured that we’ll do all we can to help your case and get things back on track. For more information, get in touch and speak to one of our helpful construction consultants.

Resolving A Dispute

Simon Levy’s dispute resolution service is most effective at the early stages of a disagreement, at which point matters haven’t escalated so much that the matter can no longer be breached without legal assistance. Essentially, seeking expert advice from a construction dispute consultant in the early stages of your conflict makes it more likely a fair resolution will be reached without going to court. We recognise the importance of client and contractor relationships, and endeavour to provide a steadfast construction dispute service to assist you in terms of risk management and dispute avoidance. We’re always keen to explore all methods of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), and do so with the backing of experienced professionals. With decades in the construction industry, we’re able to see both sides of any story.

Specialist Assistance

Specialists in our field, there are plenty of perks to seeking out our construction dispute consultants as a matter of urgency. Construction consultants at Simon Levy Associates are proud members of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors and the Academy of Experts, so we’re specialists in the truest sense of the word. Among the palpable benefits of working with us are:

Prevent Lengthy Legal Processes

Involvement in a dispute that has escalated (and resulted in legal matters) isn’t ideal for anyone, and this doesn’t only act as an inconvenience to your personal life - it can delay a project too, or even result in the altogether cancellation or collapse of ongoing works. Our construction claims consultants work to prevent matters from escalating unnecessarily, meaning no lengthy legal back-and-forths, and no disruptions from your schedule. We look to get to the very core of issues as quickly as possible - for your peace of mind.

Save On Expenses

Quite often, legal expenses can cost an arm and a leg, and alongside the costs of the contractors you hired originally, the combined fee may increase by thousands. Ideally, we can find a resolution to dispute all who are involved, and finalise matters without the need for either party to take a financial hit. Of course, this is situational, and we’ll strive for an outcome that suits you primarily. Because we can potentially resolve issues quickly, protect you against false claims and reach an amicable agreement between all parties efficiently, we could certainly help you save.

Honesty And Clarity

We'll always be up front about the nature of your dispute and your chances of benefiting from either making a claim or disputing one. Furthermore, we’ll never press ahead with anything that would result in you losing out, with complete transparency in regards to your issue. Aside from our years of experience, credentials and commitment to securing the best outcomes for our clients, you can trust our construction resolution consultants.

What We Do

With many strings to our bow, at Simon Levy Associates we can assist with assorted property construction and planning matters . As well as defect diagnosis, we excel when it comes to:

● Party Wall Matters

● Full Building And Structural Surveys

● Expert Witnesses

● Insurance Claims

● Dilapidations

● Domestic Building Work

● Projects

Simon Levy: Construction Claim Consultants And Property Damage Experts

At Simon Levy Associates, not only can we assist with construction disputes and routine disagreements, but we offer a wide range of services for both domestic and commercial projects, regardless of scale, cost and size. Our knowledge and experience concerning the highly-complex matter of building surveying has allowed us to build up a diverse set of skills. Able to identify and offer advice on a variety of problems, our construction surveyors can carry out a broad range of work including but not limited to: Valuations for individuals, architectural surveys, defect identification and party wall awards.

Whatever the building project is, there’s always a risk that you could end up being part of a disagreement, and we can give expert construction dispute advice - on the best way to deal with your situation. Whether you require a construction dispute consultant in Watford, Borehamwood or Barnet, rest assured that we’re on-hand to assist in whichever way you require. Contact today for further assistance, obtain a quote, or simply have your questions answered.

Common Planning Permission Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 14:04:08 GMT

Are you embarking on a construction project? Whether it's a residential renovation, a commercial development, or a new construction endeavour, securing planning permission is a crucial step in the process. However, navigating the complexities of planning permission can be challenging. In this blog post, we'll explore some common planning permission pitfalls and offer valuable advice on how to avoid them. Not only that but Simon Levy Associates is here to provide expert project management and property advice throughout your journey.

Insufficient Research and Preparation

One of the most frequent mistakes made by property developers is rushing into a project without conducting thorough research and preparation. Before you even think about submitting a planning application, it's vital to understand the local planning policies, zoning regulations, and any specific requirements for your area. Failure to do so can result in a rejected application or costly delays.

Advice: Seek professional planning permission advice from experts like Simon Levy Associates. We can help you navigate the intricacies of local regulations and ensure your project aligns with the planning policies, increasing your chances of success.

Incomplete or Incorrect Documentation

Submitting incomplete or inaccurate documentation is a surefire way to encounter hurdles during the planning permission process. Missing documents, such as site plans, architectural drawings, or environmental impact assessments, can lead to delays and even rejections.

Advice: Invest in a comprehensive project management team like ours. We will assist you in preparing all necessary documents and ensure they are accurate and meet the requirements set by local authorities.

Ignoring Neighbours and Community Feedback

Ignoring the concerns and feedback of neighbours and the local community can lead to opposition and objections during the planning process. Failing to engage with stakeholders and address their concerns can hinder your project's progress.

Advice: Build positive relationships with your neighbours and the community. Consider their feedback and make reasonable adjustments to your plans to address their concerns. Demonstrating your willingness to cooperate can help smooth the path to planning permission.

Unrealistic Timelines and Budgets

Setting unrealistic timelines and budgets for your project can lead to disappointment and frustration. Delays due to planning permission issues can have a significant impact on your overall project schedule and costs. Advice: Work closely with experienced project management professionals who can provide accurate timelines and budget estimates. Simon Levy Associates can help you create a realistic project plan, accounting for potential planning permission delays.

Lack of Professional Guidance

Perhaps the most critical pitfall to avoid is attempting to navigate the planning permission process alone. Without expert guidance, you risk making costly mistakes and encountering unnecessary obstacles.

Advice: Don't go it alone. Partner with Simon Levy Associates for expert property advice and project management. We have a deep understanding of the local regulations and can guide you through every step of the planning permission process.

Securing planning permission is a critical step in your construction project, and avoiding these common pitfalls is essential for success. At Simon Levy Associates, we specialise in providing expert planning permission advice to a vast array of clients. Don't let planning permission challenges derail your project; contact us today to ensure a smooth and successful construction journey.

How Do Dilapidation Surveyors Assess Property Decay?

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:50:53 GMT

When it comes to commercial property management, ensuring that the terms of a lease are upheld is crucial. Landlords need to protect their investments, and tenants must return the property in the agreed-upon condition at the end of the lease term. This is where dilapidation surveyors play a vital role. In this blog post, we will explore how dilapidation surveyors assess property decay, the importance of a dilapidation report, and what you can expect during a dilapidation inspection.

The Importance of Dilapidation Inspections

Dilapidation inspections are a vital aspect of commercial property management, serving to protect investments, ensure legal compliance, and provide clear documentation of a property's condition. These inspections help both landlords and tenants budget for necessary repairs, preventing financial surprises, and maintaining positive relationships. In essence, they are a crucial tool for responsible property management and dispute prevention.

Assessing Property Decay

Dilapidation surveyors are highly trained professionals who specialise in evaluating the condition of a property. Their primary focus is on assessing any deterioration or damage that may have occurred during the lease period. Here's how they go about it:

Initial Inspection: The process begins with an initial inspection of the property. Surveyors will thoroughly examine the building's interior and exterior, taking note of any visible signs of wear and tear. This includes issues like cracked walls, damaged flooring, broken fixtures, and more.

Review of Lease Agreement: Dilapidation surveyors then review the lease agreement to understand the specific obligations of both the landlord and the tenant regarding property maintenance. This step is crucial to determine which party is responsible for addressing various issues.

Photographic Evidence: To support their findings, surveyors take detailed photographs of the property's condition. These photographs serve as essential documentation for the dilapidation report.

In-Depth Assessment: Surveyors may also conduct more in-depth assessments, such as structural surveys or testing for asbestos or other hazardous materials if necessary. This ensures that no hidden issues are overlooked.

Comparative Analysis: After collecting all the necessary data, dilapidation surveyors compare the current condition of the property to its condition at the start of the lease. Any discrepancies are noted and included in the report.

The Dilapidation Report

The next critical step in the process is the creation of the dilapidation report. This document serves as a comprehensive record of the property's condition and outlines any necessary remedial work. Key components of the report include:

Description of Defects: The report provides a detailed list of all defects and damage found during the inspection, along with photographic evidence.

Repair Cost Estimates: Dilapidation surveyors calculate the estimated cost of repairing or rectifying each identified issue. These cost estimates are based on industry standards and local market rates.

Responsibility Allocation: The report clearly states which party, the landlord or the tenant, is responsible for addressing each defect based on the lease agreement.

Recommendations: Surveyors may offer recommendations for addressing the issues, including suggested repair methods or alternatives.

Dilapidation surveyors play a crucial role in assessing property decay and ensuring that lease obligations are met. If you require a dilapidation survey or other building surveying services , don't hesitate to contact Simon Levy Associates. Our team of chartered building surveyors is here to assist you in protecting your property investments and ensuring compliance with lease agreements. Get in touch today for expert assistance with your dilapidation needs.

How Party Wall Surveyors Manage Disputes: A Step-By-Step Guide

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:38:07 GMT

If you're planning any construction work that involves party walls, it's crucial to understand the role of a party wall surveyor and how they manage disputes. In this step-by-step guide, we'll walk you through the process of resolving party wall issues, ensuring a smooth construction experience.

Understanding Party Wall Advice

Before diving into the dispute resolution process, it's essential to seek party wall advice from a qualified surveyor. They will help you navigate the complexities of the Party Wall Act 1996 and ensure that your proposed work complies with the legal requirements. Here's what you can expect during this phase:

Initial Assessment: Your chosen party wall surveyor will conduct an initial assessment of your project, reviewing the plans and identifying any potential party wall implications.

Notice Serving: If your project falls under the Party Wall Act, your surveyor will help you serve the necessary party wall notices to your neighbours, outlining the details of your construction plans. This step is crucial for transparency and legal compliance.

Neighbouring Owners' Response: Your neighbours have the option to consent, dissent, or remain silent within 14 days of receiving the notice. If they dissent, it triggers the dispute resolution process.

The Role of Party Wall Surveyors in Dispute Management

When a dispute arises, a party wall surveyor plays a crucial role in mediating and ensuring a fair outcome for all parties involved. Here's how they manage disputes:

Appointment of Surveyors: Each party (the building owner and the adjoining owner) can appoint their own surveyor. In some cases, a single surveyor - known as an 'agreed surveyor' - may be appointed to act impartially for both parties.

Initial Assessment and Inspection: The appointed surveyors will conduct an initial inspection of the affected properties to assess the condition and record any existing damage. This baseline information is essential for resolving disputes later.

Dispute Resolution: The surveyors work together to resolve the dispute by drafting a Party Wall Agreement. This legally binding document outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties, including the proposed construction work, working hours, access arrangements, and compensation for any potential damage.

Ensuring a Smooth Resolution

Communication: Throughout the process, open and clear communication is key. Your party wall surveyor will act as a mediator, ensuring that both parties' concerns are addressed.

Site Inspections: Regular site inspections help ensure that the work is being carried out in accordance with the Party Wall Award. Any issues that arise can be addressed promptly.

Final Resolution: Once the construction work is completed, a final inspection is conducted to assess any damage caused by the work. Compensation, if necessary, will be determined based on the findings.

The Importance of a Party Wall Surveyor

Engaging a party wall surveyor early in the process can help prevent disputes from escalating and ensure a smoother construction experience. Their expertise in party wall matters, legal compliance, and dispute resolution is invaluable in protecting your interests and maintaining neighbourly relations. Managing party wall disputes requires a well-defined process, starting with seeking professional party wall advice. If you need assistance with party wall matters, Simon Levy Associates is here to help. Our team of chartered building surveyors specialises in party wall issues and can guide you through the entire process, from initial assessment to dispute resolution. Don't let party wall disputes disrupt your construction project or strain neighbourly relations - contact us today.

How to Deal with Property Disputes

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:04:44 GMT

Whether it's a boundary disagreement with a neighbour, a rental dispute with a tenant, or an inheritance conflict among family members, property disputes can cause a lot of stress and frustration. This comprehensive guide outlines everything you need to know about dealing with property disputes and the routes to pursue to solve them.

What is a property dispute?

A property dispute refers to a disagreement or conflict between two or more parties regarding the ownership, use, or rights associated with a particular property. These disputes can arise in various contexts, such as residential or commercial real estate, land, or even intellectual property. Property disputes can involve issues such as boundary disputes, easements, encroachments, zoning conflicts, lease disagreements, or disagreements over the title or possession of a property. When it comes to resolving property disputes, matters often require legal intervention - this could involve negotiations, mediation, arbitration, or even litigation in a court of law.

What are the different types of property disputes?

From issues with construction to a breakdown in landlord-tenant relations, property disputes can arise from many different problems. Here are some common types of property disputes you may encounter:

Commercial property disputes

Disputes between landlord and business tenants can occur for many reasons, such as a late payment of rent, damage to property, inadequate maintenance, disputes over service charges. When dealing with a commercial property dispute, it is advised to keep a log of any incidents that may have occurred with respect to the dispute before embarking on alternative dispute resolution.

Family property disputes

Family disagreements are one of the most common reasons for UK property disputes and can occur due to a breakdown in relationships, inheritance disputes or issues surrounding a joint property dispute. For example, joint property disputes often occur when one person wants to sell their share of the property, and the other does not. Other causes of disputes are when one person feels they have contributed more financially to a property, leading to a disagreement over property shares. An unclear will or disagreement over the shares of property inheritance can also lead to a property dispute. Before taking further steps, it is useful to find any written formal agreements to support your dispute and help to gain settlement.

Property construction disputes

Construction projects are often cash and time-sensitive, with multiple sub-contractor businesses involved in bringing the building to completion. When a construction project isn’t properly managed, it can lead to delays, dissatisfaction and disputes during the various stages - this can be incredibly frustrating for everyone involved. Construction disputes often occur due to issues such as outstanding payments, extensions of time, damage to property or poor-quality work and penalty clauses. To prevent this, it can help to ensure both parties are clear on the expectations of the project beforehand to prevent construction disputes from occurring. Depending on whether alternative dispute resolution is successful, you may need a construction lawyer to advise when disputes arise and represent you in any legal action.

Boundary disputes

This type of dispute commonly arises between owners or occupiers of neighbouring properties. This is typically, but not always, a boundary dispute where one party erect a fence, wall or a building in a position where neighbours have different views as to where the boundary lies.

Party Wall Act claims

Under the Party Wall Act, a party wishing to carry out works on, or adjacent to, a party wall must serve

a notice in accordance with the Act. Where a party carrying out the works does not comply with the provisions of the Act this can give rise to claims in trespass and/or breach of statutory duty which in turn can lead to orders for injunctive relief and damages. If you are trying to make alterations to a shared wall, it is important to know that you might need to seek out legal advice. Certain excavations, builds, extensions or take-out will require you to hire an expert party wall surveyor . Their role is to provide impartial advice on your party wall, especially if a dispute has arisen, you are changing the dimensions of the property, or the alterations are going to decrease the value of your building.

Landlord-tenant disputes

Landlord-tenant property disputes are very common. Conflicts between landlords and tenants can arise from issues related to lease agreements, rent payments, property maintenance responsibilities, and eviction procedures. From tenants paying rent late or landlords failing to address property repairs, it’s easy for the landlord-tenant relationship to sour.

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR)

Alternative dispute resolution (ADR) is a method of obtaining a binding decision other than litigation in court to solve your property dispute and is a common option when a dispute cannot be resolved through communication. It can be a more straightforward experience than going to court, and it can also be more cost-effective. ADR also allows you to have more input in the overall decision that is made. ADR involves meeting on neutral ground with an impartial third party who oversees the discussions and helps facilitate a resolution. This method helps prevent the dispute from escalating to a court setting and offers various approaches to finding a solution. Some common methods of ADR include:

Mediation

During mediation, you will usually be in the same room as the other party, with an impartial mediator overseeing the discussion and illuminating the points of each party to help you gain a greater understanding. The mediator will help you to reach a decision together through a process of discussion - however, they will not make the decision for you, and it will not be legally binding.

Arbitration

Another form of dispute resolution is arbitration. This is a more formally structured type of dispute resolution for higher conflict situations, where you may not wish to be in the same room as the other party. A qualified person will arbitrate your discussion, and you will have a chance to plead your own case. This is different from mediation, as an arbitrator looks into the legal rights and wrongs of a dispute and makes a decision. The ultimate decision will rest with the arbitrator, and the court will make the decision legally binding.

Litigation

Property litigation involves resolving disputes between property owners and their tenants, but can also cover a wide range of matters involving the ownership of residential, commercial, industrial and agricultural property.

When do you need it?

Litigation becomes necessary when you have tried all alternatives and found them to be unsuccessful. When seeking legal representation during property litigation, you will usually be asked if you have attempted ADR first.

When you have attempted to resolve a property dispute by other means, obtaining the right lawyer is necessary. They can help to guide you through your legal position of your argument and provide an opinion as to whether your argument is likely to be accepted in your particular case. A lawyer will lay out the benefits and pitfalls of going to court. If litigation does become necessary, your lawyer will help you obtain the best possible outcome.

Who can benefit?

Retailers, investors, developers, property managers, leaseholders, educational institutions, financial institutions, and commercial and residential landlords would all benefit from property litigation help. Essentially, everybody who owns, rents, or leases a property of any kind may require the services of a property law solicitor or litigator at some point.

Expert property advice at Simon Levy

Simon Levy is an expert, independent firm of building surveyors and has a wide range of experience as a chartered surveyor, providing measurement surveys and other project management services. Whether a residential or commercial property, Simon Levy Associates can help identify any problems and have carried out surveying in Borehamwood, Watford, Barnet, Greater London, Home Counties and the South East of England. We can help you deal with an array of property disputes, including issues surrounding:

● Party Wall Administration

● Boundary Disputes and Neighbourly matters

● Expert Witness Services

● Dilapidations

● Construction Consultants

● Construction and Home Improvement Disputes

● Landlord and Tenant Disputes

For more information on how we can assist you, please contact us today.

Navigating Party Wall Disputes: Expert Advice and Guidance

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:52:27 GMT

Party wall disputes can be a challenging and often stressful aspect of property ownership. Whether you're planning to undertake construction work or you find yourself on the receiving end of your neighbour's construction plans, understanding party wall matters and knowing when to seek party wall advice is crucial. In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of party wall disputes and the vital role of a party wall surveyor.

Understanding Party Wall Matters

What is a Party Wall?

A party wall, as defined by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, is a wall that separates two properties and is shared by the owners of both properties. It can also include garden walls, floors, or other structures that stand on the boundary line.

Why Do Party Wall Matters Arise?

Party wall matters typically arise when one property owner plans to carry out construction or renovation work that affects the shared wall. These works could include building an extension, conducting structural repairs, or even excavating near the party wall. The adjoining property owner's rights and concerns need to be addressed in such cases.

Seeking Party Wall Advice

When Should You Seek Advice?

If you're planning any construction work that could affect a party wall, it's advisable to seek party wall advice early in the process. Likewise, if you receive notice from your neighbour about their intended works, you should consider consulting with a party wall surveyor to understand your rights and responsibilities.

Why Hire a Party Wall Surveyor?

A party wall surveyor is a qualified professional with expertise in party wall matters. Their role is to mediate between property owners and ensure that the Party Wall Act is followed correctly. They will assess the impact of the proposed works, prepare a party wall agreement (also known as a 'party wall notice'), and help resolve any disputes that may arise.

Resolving Party Wall Disputes

The Role of the Party Wall Surveyor

Party wall surveyors play a critical role in resolving disputes. They act impartially, representing both property owners' interests. Their primary goal is to find an amicable solution that protects the rights of both parties. This can involve:

● Conducting inspections to assess the condition of the party wall.

● Determining the necessary precautions to protect adjacent properties during construction.

● Mediating negotiations between property owners.

● Preparing party wall agreements outlining the scope of work and responsibilities.

● Adhering to Legal Requirements

It's important to remember that failing to follow the Party Wall Act can result in legal complications and delays in your construction project. Seeking party wall advice and working with a party wall surveyor can help you navigate these legal requirements smoothly.

Trust Simon Levy For Party Wall Dispute Help

Party wall disputes are a common occurrence in property ownership, but they can be managed effectively with the right party wall advice and the expertise of a party wall surveyor. By understanding your rights and responsibilities and adhering to legal requirements, you can ensure a smoother construction process and maintain amicable relations with your neighbours.

Don't hesitate to seek professional guidance when dealing with party wall matters to protect your interests and avoid unnecessary conflicts. Get in touch with Simon Levy today if you need help.

Beware the Dangers of Damp: Protect Your Property & Finances

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:48:58 GMT

Damp might seem like a minor inconvenience, but the dangers it poses to your property and finances can be significant. Left unchecked, dampness can lead to structural damage, health issues, and property disputes. In this article, we'll explore the hidden dangers of damp and how building surveyors can play a crucial role in preventing building insurance claims and property disputes.

Understanding the Dangers of Damp

Damp's Impact on Health

Damp environments are breeding grounds for mould and mildew, which can trigger respiratory problems and allergies. Prolonged exposure to these conditions can be harmful, especially for vulnerable individuals.

Structural Damage

Dampness can infiltrate walls, ceilings, and floors, weakening the structural integrity of your property. It can lead to rot, decay, and even compromise the stability of your home.

Decreased Property Value

Properties affected by damp often have lower market values. It's a red flag for potential buyers, making it harder to sell your property at the desired price.

The Role of Building Surveyors

Early Detection and Prevention

Building surveyors are trained to identify the early signs of damp during property inspections. Their expertise can help you catch damp issues before they escalate, saving you from costly repairs down the road.

Assessing Damage for Insurance Claims

If you already have damp-related damage, a building surveyor can assess the extent of the damage, which is crucial when filing a building insurance claim. Their thorough reports provide evidence that can speed up the claims process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

Avoiding Property Disputes

Property disputes often arise when one party believes the other is responsible for damp-related issues. Building surveyors can provide an impartial assessment, determining the root cause and responsible party, preventing costly and time-consuming disputes.

Building Insurance Claims

Understanding Building Insurance Coverage

Building insurance policies vary, so it's essential to understand what your policy covers regarding damp-related issues. Some policies may cover the cost of repairs due to sudden and accidental damage, while others may exclude damp issues caused by poor maintenance.

Working with Building Surveyors for Claims

When making a building insurance claim related to damp, involving a building surveyor is beneficial. Their professional assessments and reports can provide the necessary documentation to support your claim, increasing the chances of a successful outcome.

Preventing Damp and Its Dangers

Regular Property Maintenance

Prevention is the best defence against dampness. Regular property maintenance, including checking for leaks, improving ventilation, and addressing drainage issues, can help keep damp at bay.

Consulting Building Surveyors Proactively

Even if you don't currently have damp issues, consulting a building surveyor for periodic property inspections is a proactive step to prevent future problems. Their expertise can help you identify potential damp risks early.

Structural Surveys From Simon Levy

The dangers of damp in your property are not to be underestimated. From health concerns to structural damage and property disputes, the consequences can be severe. Building surveyors are your allies in this battle, helping you detect damp issues early, assess damage for insurance claims, and avoid disputes. By taking a proactive approach to damp prevention and involving building surveyors when needed, you can protect both your property and your finances from the lurking dangers of damp.

For full house surveys and property inspections, get in touch with Simon Levy today to find out more.

Navigating Property Damage Claims: Your Comprehensive Guide

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:28:44 GMT

Property damage can be a distressing experience for homeowners. When disaster strikes, whether due to natural disasters or accidents, knowing how to navigate the process of filing a building insurance claim is crucial. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the key steps involved in property damage claims, the role of property damage experts, and how insurance adjusters come into play.

Understanding Property Damage Claims

Property damage can encompass various scenarios, including fire, water damage, storms, vandalism, or structural issues. Each type of damage may require a different approach to the claims process.

Having a comprehensive building insurance policy is essential for protecting your property investment. It provides financial support in the event of unexpected damage.

Step 1: Assess the Damage

Begin by thoroughly documenting the damage. Take photographs and videos of affected areas, and make a detailed list of damaged items. This evidence will be crucial when filing your claim.

Notify your insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies require prompt reporting of damage, and delaying can affect your claim's outcome.

Step 2: Consult Property Damage Experts

Property damage experts are professionals with specialised knowledge in assessing and estimating property damage. They play a critical role in the claims process by providing accurate evaluations.

Consider hiring a property damage expert to assess the extent of the damage, estimate repair costs, and ensure that all damages are properly accounted for in your claim.

Step 3: The Insurance Adjuster's Role

Insurance companies assign a claims adjuster to your case. The adjuster's job is to investigate the damage, assess the claim's validity, and determine the amount of compensation you are entitled to.

Cooperate fully with the insurance adjuster. Provide them with all necessary documentation, including the assessment from your property damage expert. This collaboration will help expedite the claims process.

Step 4: Reviewing and Settling the Claim

The insurance company will review your claim, including the assessments from the property damage expert and the adjuster's investigation. They will then determine the amount they are willing to pay.

If you believe the insurance company's offer is insufficient, you have the right to negotiate. Property damage experts can provide additional support during negotiations to ensure you receive a fair settlement.

Step 5: Repair and Restoration

Once your claim is settled, you can proceed with repairing and restoring your property. Use the insurance payout to hire contractors and purchase materials to bring your property back to its pre-damage condition.

Building Insurance Claims With Simon Levy

Property damage claims can be complex, but with the right knowledge and support from property damage experts, you can navigate the process effectively. Understanding the role of insurance adjusters and following the necessary steps, from assessment to settlement, is essential for a successful outcome. Remember that timely reporting, thorough documentation, and collaboration with experts can make a significant difference in the resolution of your building insurance claim.

If you need assistance with insurance building claims in Borehamwood, Barnet, Watford or Greater London, get in touch with us today.

The Role of a Construction Expert Witness in Resolving Property Disputes

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 08:15:04 GMT

According to the 2021 Census, 37% of UK residents rent their homes, where this endures as a common way to afford a property in today’s housing market. This means that millions of people are maintaining relationships with their landlords, where a property owner rents out their space to their tenant for a fixed monthly price.

This relationship can be a relaxed one, whilst other tenants and landlords will come to disagreements related to various issues. Common conflicts relate to deposit and rental payments as well as upkeep of the property, where both the tenant and the landlord may raise concerns.

One area that can cause conflict is dilapidations, where this refers to the condition of a leasehold property throughout the rental period and in particular when the tenant vacates the property. The dilapidations process is a way of documenting any damages and securing the appropriate settlements to repair them.

Read on to learn more about dilapidations, including how a dilapidations survey works and the various benefits to be gained from a thorough property inspection.

Dilapidations Explained

Dilapidations refers to the repairs that can be required at the end of a tenancy or lease agreement. In legal terms, it refers to the cause of action necessary to force a tenant to pay for these repairs. In other words, if a tenant leaves a property in disrepair at the end of their contract then they can be liable to pay the landlord however much it costs to carry out the necessary repairs and maintenance work. A tenant could also have to pay the landlord lost earnings in terms of rent whilst these repairs are being carried out.

This agreement is detailed in UK law through the 1927 Landlord and Tenant Act which describes the various responsibilities and rights of landlords and tenants relating to the maintenance and upkeep of a property.

Dilapidation Settlements

A dilapidation settlement is an agreement that is reached between a landlord and their tenant about how much needs to be paid to carry out necessary repair work at the end of a lease. This settlement amount can be deducted from the tenant’s deposit or the tenant can be invoiced separately for an agreed upon amount.

If the tenant refuses to pay the settlement, then the landlord can begin legal proceedings to secure the required amount. In general, the landlord has six years from the end date of the tenant’s lease to make a dilapidation claim and secure a settlement, where this is referred to as the limitation period.

Dilapidation Surveys & Inspections

A dilapidation survey allows the landlord to find out what kind of repairs need to be undertaken and how much it may cost. This allows them to draw up an estimate to present to the tenant. Employing a professional surveyor as a third party helps to legitimise the landlord’s claims regarding the dilapidation settlement, which can be useful if legal proceedings are required further down the line.

The dilapidation survey should generally be undertaken before the tenant’s lease ends, so that any repair work can be carried out punctually. This means that the landlord won’t be losing earnings if lengthy repair works are required that could delay a new tenant moving in. In addition to this, if a dilapidation survey is carried out before the tenant leaves the property then this can prevent unnecessary and drawn out disputes with the landlord. It also means that the tenant can be aware of how and when the landlord is implementing the various repairs. Sometimes the tenant will request a dilapidations survey in order to understand what repair works will be required when the lease ends. The tenant may also wish to carry out a survey to ensure that the property is being maintained to an acceptable standard by the landlord throughout the lease period.

Dilapidations Schedule

The schedule of dilapidations is the outline of when various repairs will be carried out. This can help to accurately estimate material and labour costs in order to provide the tenant with an accurate settlement amount. The schedule is generally prepared by the landlord, where advice may be taken from the property surveyor as well as building contractors.

It is also possible for a tenant to present the landlord with a counter-schedule if there are any disputed points that they want to highlight to the landlord. This could include alternate pricing suggestions as well as considerations about what repair work is strictly necessary.

How The Dilapidations Process Benefits Both Landlords & Tenants

The dilapidations process encourages landlords to make regular inspections and surveys of their property to ensure it remains in good condition. This helps to prevent absenteeism amongst landlords, where it can encourage a better standard of maintenance that can benefit both parties in the long run. Tenants should also be on the lookout for signs of damage, where notifying the landlord of this early on can prevent more costly repairs in the future.

Making a note of required repairs throughout the tenancy can help to make sure that the building is in good condition for future tenants, where it can also prevent degradation of the property over time. If there is no record of necessary repairs or recurring damages, then the house can soon lose value and become a financial burden to both tenants and landlords.

Tenants and landlords should both be aware of their respective responsibilities for the property when they come to a lease agreement. This can help to prevent misunderstandings and lengthy negotiations in the future if an issue does arise.

A further benefit of a dilapidation survey is that it can provide both tenants and landlords with an unbiased, professional opinion on the property. This kind of third party intervention is a great way to resolve disputes and come to a fair agreement concerning costs and the work that needs to be done. It can also prevent landlords from making an unfair assessment of how much repairs will cost, which can protect the tenant from making an excessive payment.

As such the dilapidation process can also be beneficial for tenants, as it allows them to formally challenge any suggestions from the landlord that damage has been caused. If a record of the property’s condition has been kept throughout the tenancy then this can help to evidence various claims from both parties.

Ultimately the tenant should not have to pay to repair pre-existing damage in the property, or issues beyond their control such as mould or pest infestations. General wear and tear is also not a valid reason for a landlord to charge their tenants, as this is simply a natural result of living in a given space.

Simon Levy: A Leading Dilapidations Company Working With Both Tenants & Landlords

At Simon Levy, we can work on the behalf of both tenants and landlords to help you to come to a fair settlement agreement. Our experienced dilapidation surveyors can offer their impartial opinion on properties of all sizes, where we can then produce a report of our findings in order to help you to negotiate the best possible outcome. Contacting a dilapidation surveyor early on in your negotiations can help to simplify the whole process and result in the fairest solution for all parties.

In addition to dilapidation inspections, we can also offer a wide range of further services, where our team of building dispute and property damage experts are on hand to resolve your conflicts. We’re adept at handling party wall and boundary disputes, as well as planning issues that require the intervention of a surveyor. We can also offer comprehensive building surveys to assess both interior and exterior damage. This can be essential if you’re looking to buy a property or if you’re undertaking major renovation work.

Further to this, our team can provide assistance with building insurance claims, whatever kind of damage you’re dealing with. Our experienced surveyors can also act as expert witnesses for a range of property disputes, to help you to achieve your desired outcome. Get in touch with our team today to find out more about our comprehensive range of services.

Dilapidation Surveyors: A Complete Guide To Dilapidations

Tue, 12 Sep 2023 07:11:21 GMT

Read on to learn more about dilapidations, including how a dilapidations survey works and the various benefits to be gained from a thorough property inspection.

Dilapidations Explained

Dilapidations refers to the repairs that can be required at the end of a tenancy or lease agreement. In legal terms, it refers to the cause of action necessary to force a tenant to pay for these repairs.In other words, if a tenant leaves a property in disrepair at the end of their contract then they can be liable to pay the landlord however much it costs to carry out the necessary repairs and maintenance work. A tenant could also have to pay the landlord lost earnings in terms of rent whilst these repairs are being carried out.

Dilapidation Settlements

Dilapidation Surveys & Inspections

The dilapidation survey should generally be undertaken before the tenant’s lease ends, so that any repair work can be carried out punctually. This means that the landlord won’t be losing earnings if lengthy repair works are required that could delay a new tenant moving in. In addition to this, if a dilapidation survey is carried out before the tenant leaves the property then this can prevent unnecessary and drawn out disputes with the landlord. It also means that the tenant can be aware of how and when the landlord is implementing the various repairs.Sometimes the tenant will request a dilapidations survey in order to understand what repair works will be required when the lease ends. The tenant may also wish to carry out a survey to ensure that the property is being maintained to an acceptable standard by the landlord throughout the lease period.

Dilapidations Schedule

How The Dilapidations Process Benefits Both Landlords & Tenants

Simon Levy: A Leading Dilapidations Company Working With Both Tenants & Landlords

The Role of an Expert Witness in Construction Claims

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 09:45:41 GMT

In the complex landscape of the construction industry, disputes and claims are not uncommon. When disagreements arise between parties involved in construction projects, such as contractors, developers, or property owners, the resolution process can become challenging. This is where a construction expert witness becomes invaluable. In this blog post, we will delve into the vital role played by construction expert witnesses and how they contribute to a fair and informed resolution of construction disputes.

What is a Construction Expert Witness?

A construction expert witness is a highly experienced and knowledgeable professional who provides impartial and expert opinions on construction disputes . These experts possess specialised expertise and have a deep understanding of construction processes, regulations, and industry standards. Their primary responsibility is to provide an independent assessment of the issues in question, backed by their professional expertise and factual evidence.

Key Responsibilities of a Construction Expert Witness

The specific responsibilities of a construction expert witness can vary depending on the details of the claim or dispute in question. However, there are a few key responsibilities that often arise:

Navigating Complex Construction Claims

Construction claims can encompass a wide range of issues, including construction defects, delays, cost overruns, design errors, and contract disputes. The involvement of a construction expert witness can be pivotal in resolving such complex claims efficiently. These experts conduct thorough investigations, review relevant documentation, and inspect the site, if necessary, to gain a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

Unbiased Assessment and Expert Opinions

One of the key strengths of a construction expert witness is their unbiased assessment of the dispute. Their duty is to the court or the appointed tribunal, ensuring that their opinions are based solely on factual evidence and their professional knowledge. This impartiality lends credibility to their findings and recommendations, ultimately strengthening the case for a fair resolution.

Expert Witness Reports and Testimonies

In construction claims, the role of a construction expert witness extends to the preparation of expert reports and testimonies. Expert reports serve as comprehensive documents that outline their findings, opinions, and the methodologies used to arrive at their conclusions. These reports are essential in presenting complex technical information in a clear and understandable manner to the parties involved, the court, or the tribunal. Testimonies given by construction expert witnesses are equally crucial, as they provide an opportunity for experts to present their findings orally, answer questions, and defend their conclusions. Their confident and authoritative demeanour enhances the credibility of the report and their testimony, which can significantly influence the final decision.

The Advantages of Expert Witness Services

Here at Simon Levy Associates, we recognise the immense benefits of construction expert witness services in construction claims. These advantages include:

Expertise and Credibility: Construction expert witnesses possess specialised knowledge that strengthens the case and lends credibility to the argument presented.

Mediation and Settlement Facilitation: Their presence often encourages parties to explore alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation, leading to faster and more cost-effective settlements.

Informed Decision-making: Their unbiased and well-informed opinions help judges, arbitrators, or tribunals make fair and just decisions.

If you are facing a construction claim or dispute, our construction expert witness services are here to help. Our experts can strengthen your case and increase the chances of a favourable outcome. Get in touch today to learn more about how we can assist you in resolving construction claims efficiently and fairly.

Understanding the Key Factors in Planning Permission Outcomes

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 09:42:20 GMT

If you’re due to undertake a construction project, it’s vital you understand the factors that will affect the outcome of your planning application. By familiarising yourself with these factors before submitting a planning application, you will be able to ensure that your plans tick all the necessary boxes from the get-go, therefore reducing the likelihood of downtime and/or major changes further down the line. To ensure you’re fully informed, let’s delve into the essential factors that can make or break your planning application.

Thorough Site Analysis and Design

The foundation of a successful planning application lies in a thorough site analysis and a well-designed proposal. Before submitting the application, it is crucial to assess the site's constraints and opportunities. The team here at Simon Levy Associates conducts detailed site assessments, taking into account local planning policies, environmental impact and the surrounding context. By developing a well-designed proposal that aligns with these factors, the chances of a positive planning permission outcome significantly increase.

Compliance with Local Planning Policies

Local planning policies play a pivotal role in shaping planning decisions. Our in-depth knowledge of local planning regulations ensures that your project complies with all relevant guidelines, reducing the risk of rejection due to policy violations. By carefully navigating through the intricate web of local policies, we maximise your chances of obtaining planning permission.

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

Engaging with the local community and relevant stakeholders can greatly influence the planning permission outcome, particularly with large-scale projects. Addressing their concerns and incorporating their feedback into the proposal shows a willingness to work collaboratively. Our team can assist you in conducting consultations, gathering feedback and making necessary adjustments in order to foster a positive relationship with the community and stakeholders.

Expert Documentation and Presentation

Accurate and well-presented documentation is essential in making a compelling case for your planning application. At Simon Levy Associates, we leverage our extensive experience to prepare comprehensive and convincing documentation that clearly communicates the benefits of your project to decision-makers. Our attention to detail and commitment to presenting your proposal in the best light possible significantly enhance the likelihood of a successful outcome.

Timing and Coordination

The timing of your planning application can influence its success. Certain periods may be more favourable for submitting proposals, aligning with local planning priorities and political considerations. Our team understands the dynamics of the planning process and ensures that your application is strategically timed to optimise its chances of approval. Embarking on a construction project and navigating the planning process can be a daunting task. However, with the right project management services and expert planning application advice, the journey becomes smoother and more rewarding. At Simon Levy Associates, we are committed to guiding you every step of the way, from initial consultations to obtaining planning permission.

Whether you’re a homeowner, developer or business owner, our team is ready to assist you in turning your vision into reality. With a focus on professionalism, efficiency and client satisfaction, we are confident in our ability to deliver a successful planning permission outcome for your project. Contact us today to discuss your project and get planning permission advice from trusted professionals.

A Complete Guide To A Career As A Construction Consultant

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 09:37:42 GMT

We all rely on the construction industry to provide us with shelter, erect our public buildings and maintain our transportation networks. Every day, new building projects and renovations are undertaken for the ends of improving domestic residencies or expanding sites of commerce across the country. Amidst all this action, there are a range of professions dedicated to ensuring this work runs smoothly and safely. Surveyors, architects, consultants and designers all work behind the scenes to ensure our brick and mortar structures are foolproof and long lasting. But what exactly is a construction consultant? And how do you become one? Read on to find out the answers to these questions in our comprehensive guide to the construction consultant profession.

What Is A Construction Consultant?

A construction consultant is a professional enlisted to oversee and advise on a construction project. They may be employed from the inception of the project to help streamline initial planning and design efforts, where their end goal is to ensure that construction takes place within budget and is completed in a timely manner. This role can cover a number of different facets of a construction project depending on what the client needs help with, where a consultant may consider both the technical aspects of the work at hand as well as more administrative and financial concerns.

Key Responsibilities

Although this role can vary widely from project to project, there are some common duties that tend to arise, where these include:

● Assessing if a project is feasible - this involves visiting the building site and researching the suggested construction plans to determine whether the project is both financially and structurally sound.

● Considering costs - a construction consultant may also decipher how much labour will cost to complete the project, alongside additional expenses for insurance.

● Liaising with vendors - this role will encompass discussions with vendors about the costs of building materials, where this can allow a budget to be drawn up, in addition to creating contacts for securing all the necessary resources to start the project.

● Managing regulations - another key responsibility may include determining and assessing safety risk factors on the site, in addition to advising on mandatory permits needed to carry out the project.

● Overseeing the project - construction consultants may also take on a more managerial role, acting as a project manager to oversee timelines and ensure all components of the build are running smoothly.

● Reporting to clients - this role also involves reporting back key findings to clients to keep them informed about project progress and developments, where this can include advice on spending and resource management.

Specialist Construction Consultants

These responsibilities listed above are very generalised where some construction consultants will take on a more particular role, where the focus may be on health and safety assessment or financial management.

Construction Claim Consultants

Another consultancy branch would be the construction dispute or claims consultant, where these professionals deal with various problems that may arise during a build. A claims consultant will handle a request for financial compensation or timeline alterations, whilst a dispute professional takes on such a case where a disagreement between two parties has arisen. Usually this will be between a builder or contractor and their client, where the consultant can step in to assert your claim, collect evidence and advise on the legal process.

A construction dispute consultant will be able to offer assistance with alternative dispute resolution (ADR), where these methods attempt to resolve a conflict without going to court. Popular methods include mediation, in-person meetings, arbitration and early neutral evaluation.

Cost Consultants

A further area of specialism when it comes to construction management is the role of cost consultant, where these professionals focus on the financial aspects of a project. Their role would generally consist of outlining and defining the project budget and assessing how cost effective the current build plans may be. This can also cover procurement strategy, the preparation of cash flow projections and the undertaking of risk management. Ultimately a cost consultant may also be responsible for completing the final account of the project once the build is completed.

Planning Consultants

This type of specialist consultant will focus on the preparation phase of the project, typically before any construction work or even any design work has taken place. The role typically involves working to obtain planning permission for a specific project, where they can advise on local policy and environmental regulations to ensure plans are successful. They can also provide reports to be submitted alongside your planning application which can help to get your project approved, where the consultant may also be able to participate in meetings with council members to further discuss plans.

Key Qualifications & Experience

In order to pursue a career in construction consultancy, you will need to achieve a number of key qualifications, which can then be developed through on-hand experience working in the industry. Some important steps to take may include:

Academic Qualifications

This begins with a Bachelor's degree, where this will typically be completed in architecture or civil engineering. These qualifications can provide you with a baseline knowledge of how projects are run, key design principles and an understanding of the modern construction industry.

You may also wish to undertake some advanced study such as a master’s degree in civil engineering or architecture to further your understanding of the field. This can help you to access higher paying jobs in the future in addition to expanding your knowledge about the construction industry.

Construction Experience

It is also important to gain workable experience in the construction field to boost your chances of landing a consultancy career. Any hands-on work in the construction industry can help so that your advice can come from a place of genuine understanding and interest. Working with machinery and tools or on a construction site in an administrative capacity can provide you with good experience.

Beyond this, to attain a senior position at the head of a construction project you would be required to have several years of experience working within the construction industry. In particular you will be expected to have already spent time negotiating contracts, managing projects and advising clients. Longer periods of experience would also be necessary if you wished to step out on your own as an independent consultant, where your know-how and expertise would have to be provable.

Further Certifications

In addition to this, you can also gain further certification specialist to the industry, such as becoming a Certified Professional Constructor. This is not essential but it can help employers to quickly understand your skills and experience level. Additional certifications surrounding health and safety knowledge can also be a useful way to highlight your expertise.

It is also important to note that various professionals can consult on a construction project, including site or structural engineers as well as architects and designers. This provides ample opportunities and pathways for accessing a career as a construction consultant.

Characteristics & Strengths

On top of your qualifications and experience, you will also need to demonstrate that you have the transferable skills to apply yourself to the position of construction consultant. These can be developed as you pursue the above steps, where some commonly expected personal strengths may include:

● Exceptional managerial skills with the ability to handle a busy team

● Impressive communication skills even when under pressure

● Proficient knowledge of relevant software and digital applications

● Ability to handle complex budgets and manage resources effectively

● Ability to analyse and interpret data in order to offer informed advice

● Experience at handling complex negotiations and resolving conflicts

Simon Levy: Building Surveyors & Construction Dispute Consultants

At Simon Levy, our team of expert consultants can offer unbeatable construction dispute advice to help get your project back on track. Whether you're dealing with delays, neglect or a breach of contract, we aim to address your difficulties using a range of effective approaches to dispute resolution.

In addition to this, our professionals are equipped to deliver comprehensive building surveys, where we can also assist in insurance claims, party wall disputes and dilapidation cases. Get in touch directly today to find out more about how we can help.

A Guide To Indoor Mould Varieties & Their Harmful Effects

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 08:06:45 GMT

There’s nothing worse than moving aside a living room curtain, opening a bathroom cupboard, or cleaning beneath a sink and discovering an established mould infestation. These can flourish under damp and cold conditions, causing long term damage both to your property and to your health.

It is likely that a serious mould problem will be picked up on by a professional building surveyor, which could impact the value of your house and your ability to sell. As such, it is important to be able to identify which type of mould you’re dealing with, so that you understand the risks and can proceed with the clean-up operation.

Read on for a look at the most common mould types, with an overview of the problems they can cause.

Green Mould

This common mould type usually grows on damp surfaces and fabrics, where it comes in numerous strains. Common types include the penicillium and aspergillus families, where this mould is recognisable due to its characteristic green hue and fluffy quality. Left untreated, this mould can cause structural damage, as well as releasing harmful spores into the air. Over time, this can result in sinus infections and various lung conditions.

Black Mould

Recognised as the most harmful mould variety, black mould is another common problem that can develop from the same strains as the green version. However, toxic varieties of black mould can be especially harmful. Known as stachybotrys chartarum, this strain produces mycotoxins that are invisible to the human eye and can cause serious health problems with the respiratory system as well as causing damage to vision and skin health.

White Mould

White mould is another indoor threat that likes to grow in cool and damp environments, often found on moist walls and in basement spaces. Like the above mould types, white mould can cause a range of health problems, particularly of a respiratory nature. It can be confused with salt deposits, or efflorescence, which tends to grow on concrete or brick surfaces.

Blue Mould

Your indoor mould may also be blue in colour, where this type tends to flourish in damp or water damage areas. This means it is typically found on bathroom walls and ceilings or in the shower. It can also release harmful spores into the air which can cause a range of serious health problems if left untreated.

Simon Levy: Building Surveyors You Can Depend On

At Simon Levy, we offer a comprehensive building defect diagnosis service for both new and older properties. Our experienced team can provide you with a full house survey, where our property inspection reports will also include the exact cause of the problem and a suitable solution. We specialise in spotting mould propagation, as well as damp and structural issues. Contact us directly today to find out more about how we can help.

What External Areas Do Building Surveyors Inspect?

Tue, 11 Jul 2023 08:02:03 GMT

Property inspections are necessarily complex, where both internal and external areas need to be thoroughly checked for potential problems. Building surveyors assess the repair and maintenance work that needs to be carried out on a structure, where this can be used to advise prospective buyers or homeowners looking to make upgrades to their property.

Surveyors will consider the interior of a house, where issues such as mould, damp and structural damage should all be detailed in an inspection report. But the outside of the property is just as important, and should also be checked thoroughly for concealed issues.

Read on to learn more about the different areas a building surveyor will consider outside of the property.

Garden & Surrounding Landscape

The building survey will include an in-depth look at the garden area, where problems such as invasive weeds or unstable trees will be noted. The surrounding landscape will also be checked for potential issues that could affect the property, where this could include overgrown areas or potential damage from tree roots.

Boundaries & Driveways

Further from the house, driveways and property boundaries could potentially cause problems if these areas aren’t distinctly marked. A surveyor will also note if the driveway and parking area is in good condition, and whether there are any lingering boundary disputes.

External Gutters & Drains

Outdoor plumbing systems also need to be checked for potential blockages or faults, where this includes gutters, drains and downpipes. A surveyor will note if these are working properly, or if there is a notable issue that needs attention.

Roofs & Chimneys

The roof is one of the most important parts of the property exterior, where it needs to be thoroughly checked to ensure the structure is secure and weatherproof. Chimneys will also be considered, where these need to remain free of blockages or interference from animal nests or infestations.

Windows & Doors

These vital entrance points to the property need to be properly secured in order to keep the building safe and to allow it to be fully insured. Panes will be checked for resilience and glazing strength, whilst the lock quality on the doors and windows will also be noted.

Simon Levy: Building Surveyors You Can Trust

At Simon Levy, our experienced team can deliver a full house survey, which will include both the interior and exterior of your property. We not only look into the potential causes of structural issues and other findings, but we also offer workable solutions to help you repair the issue. Contact us directly today to find out more about how we can help.

Planning Permission Appeals: A Complete Guide

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 09:14:55 GMT

Building your own home is, unquestionably, one of the most rewarding things you can do in life. After all, for the first time, you will have complete creative control over the look and design of your home. Whether you’re starting a new family or creating a new home for yourself and your partner, building a home from the ground up is a brilliant experience. There’s no question that sitting down with your team of architects and drawing out the first sketches of your ideal home is a thrilling experience but there are a few more steps down the line before you can make this dream a reality.

Planning is one of the most important stages when it comes to building your new home as this will decide how you can go about constructing the building. We understand that when it comes to creating your dream home planning permission can feel more like an obstacle than an opportunity but there are some genuine reasons for this system in the UK. Planning authorities oversee construction in our country to ensure that buildings are safe and in keeping with the local area. So, there is a genuine reason for this system no matter how frustrating it can feel at times.

Innovation Vs protection

Design, for thousands of years, has battled itself. There will always be those to stand for the protection of history and our traditional methods and those who strive for modern perspectives and new ideas. The challenge with architecture in the modern era is to balance these two ideals to create homes that both push the boundaries and safeguard our local environments. In a nutshell, this is what the planning committees are here to do. Naturally, much like any system that relies on human cooperation, they don’t always succeed in this but they certainly endeavour to.

It must be said that despite their expertise and knowledge of the sector planning committees don’t always get things right. In fact, many modern architects would argue that they have a reputation for getting it very wrong. Though this may be a slightly biassed opinion it is important to note that human era is always possible and you have a right to challenge decisions that are made. This is what planning permission appeals are all about and you should be aware that they are more than common so don’t hesitate about taking this step if you and your team think it is necessary.

When should you appeal?

Much like any form of government in the UK and most countries for that matter there are a few deciding circumstances which will determine whether or not you can appeal to the planning committee. Don’t worry though, this usually follows a fairly strict set of rules. The first reason that many self-builders or architects cite as an appealable situation is if your planning application is not decided within a particular time period. Naturally, this will have many genuine consequences for your project which all have financial implications so you are perfectly within your right to appeal.

There is one other common circumstance which leads to appeals to the committee. As you might expect this refers to when a planning authority rejects your application for some reason. You and your team should read through the committee's decision and plan your appeal accordingly to ensure that you receive the right result next time around. The fact is that appeals are more than common in the planning process and you should be prepared for some form of retaliation. So, the best thing that you can do is understand the appeal process to the best of your ability so you are ready for such circumstances.

The appeal process

As you might expect the actual appeal process in the UK is a rather complex and sometimes confusing ordeal. Like many other local bodies, planning committees are famous for their long meetings and prolonged debates. While this is naturally a touch frustrating at times there are a series of things which you can do to avoid such instances and ensure that your appeal is read and approved as soon as possible. Of course, one of the main tricks is to try and keep the committee on your side and informed of any decisions you are making. So, what does this appeal process look like and how can you go about starting it?

There are a few strict rules when it comes to appealing which you will need to adhere to otherwise your application will not be considered and you will have to settle for the previous decision. First of all, only the applicant for consent or the person on the enforcement notice is legally allowed to make an official appeal. This is extremely important and you will certainly not have your appeal considered if you deviate from this rule. You must be aware that there is no right to appeal for interested people or parties in the UK. One final point is while you can submit an appeal in writing committees usually prefer them online.

When should you submit an appeal?

This is one of the most significant questions in this blog and a point that you should pay

particular attention to if you suspect your application to fail the first stage. Don’t worry though, this does not mean that you have to give up on your dream. All you have to do is plan your appeal correctly and submit it in all of the right forms. So, when should you submit your appeal and why is the timing of this so important? Essentially there are some strict time constraints that you should ensure you meet otherwise the planning authority will not accept your appeal.

Most of the time you will have six months from when the local planning authority rejected your plans to submit an appeal. During this time you should consult a series of professionals on the matter so that you can write a well-considered document with evidence to prove that the grounds for rejection were unfounded. You could also submit some edits to your design in an attempt to meet some sort of compromise with the committee. You should usually also provide a minimum of 28 days from the enforcement notice before you take any kind of action. As long as you stay within these time parameters you should be able to submit an appeal fairly easily.

Forms of appeals

As you might expect there are many different forms of planning appeals that you should certainly be aware of if you are planning a new building project. Some of these will probably not relate to your project but it would still be useful to see what the planning committee covers. The first is, of course, the planning appeal. Now, as the name suggests, this appeal refers only to the appeal of a decision made by the committee against your application for planning permission. This could refer to a total rejection of your plans or perhaps an amendment which the committee has suggested.

Enforcement appeals happen when you have started building work before you have been granted planning permission or perhaps even before you applied. Sometimes the planning committee may issue an enforcement order either directing you to stop work until you have submitted a retrospective planning application or asking you to completely demolish the structure. Of course, just like the standard planning appeal, you can challenge this. The last most common form of appeal revolves around the Lawful Development certificate which you can apply for. If this application is refused you have 8 weeks to appeal this decision. So, what else should you know about the planning permission process?

How local government works

To get a true understanding of the planning process you should also research the nuances of local government. Of course, like most bureaucratic organisations local democracy and government can often feel like a maze of legislation and committees with meetings left right and centre about how small issues should be addressed. Though, when you remove the facade of political jargon the world of local government is fairly easy to grapple with. The trick is to know who is who and what they do in the system. This way you are always going to the right people and not wasting time.

If you would like any more information or advice about planning permission appeals then make sure you contact us today. We have many years of experience in the industry and would love to talk you through the process.

Here’s What You Need to Know About Party Wall Disputes

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 08:52:21 GMT

Disputes over party walls frequently occur between neighbours when properties are renovated, or when a change to a building is later found to have caused an issue with a party wall. Read on to find out everything you need to know about dealing with party wall disputes.

The Party Wall Act 1996

In 1996, the Party Wall Act was introduced to regulate any alterations to a property or to land with fences or walls. In general, this tends to apply mainly to semi-detached properties, such as terraced housing, but it can also affect flats, including the ceilings and floors in a flat.

Changes to a property which might fall under the regulation of the Party Wall Act include:

● Changes to a party fence

● Changing a support beam

● Cutting into a party wall

● Damp proof installation

● Demolition of a party wall or a section of it

● Digging or excavating beneath the foundations of a party wall to within 3m to 6m of a neighbouring property

● Digging or excavating beneath a garden party wall

● Hanging a suspended ceiling beneath the floor of another property.

This essentially means that renovation affecting party walls must be carried out in accordance with the Party Wall Act to prevent damage to an adjoining property.

Objections under the Party Wall Act

Whether you’re a homeowner or developer, if you’re carrying out renovations involving party walls you must give adjacent property owners two months’ notice in writing of your plans.

Your neighbours can make an objection to renovations involving a party wall within 14 days of receiving notification. Additionally, they can also agree in writing to the plans within 14 days if, for example, provision has been made for protecting the property of any neighbours affected by the works – and compensating any homeowners affected by the renovations.

If an agreement cannot be reached, then you will have to arrange for a joint surveyor to draw up what is known as a party wall award. This will set out details of:

● The existing condition of the party wall

● Works to be carried out

● Protective measures need for adjacent properties

● Timescales and time limits for the works

● The Schedule for the surveyors’ building inspections.

Party wall matters can often be complex and diverse. Due to there being statutory, it can also often be a daunting experience, especially if you are being put under pressure from your neighbour. A quick phone call to Simon Levy Associates will put you at ease and one of our devoted team of surveyors will be able to provide legal party wall advice and assert your legal rights as a property owner with instructions as to your next steps. Contact us today to find out more about what we can do for you.

What To Do If You Suspect You Have Asbestos In Your Home

Wed, 14 Jun 2023 08:50:00 GMT

Asbestos is a dangerous construction material that was used throughout the UK. Keep reading to find out why it is so dangerous and what you should do if you suspect you have asbestos in your home.

What Is Asbestos And Why Is It Dangerous?

Asbestos is a fibrous material that was used across many properties from approximately 1930 to 1980 for fire-proofing and strengthening. Since 1993, the use of asbestos has been banned in most products, but many refurbished properties from this time may still have asbestos materials.

Health Concerns

Asbestos was classified as a health risk to people, as the material caused an array of health problems in people across the UK. Today, over 5000 people die each year due to asbestos exposure. It has now been classified as a carcinogenic material, and the fibres are so strong that they cannot be broken down by the human body. This is why inhaling asbestos fibres and being exposed to this material can be so dangerous.

Symptoms To Look Out For

Some of the symptoms from asbestos exposure can be:

● Chest pains

● Wheezing & A persistent cough

● Fatigue

● Shortness of breath

Asbestos exposure can lead to more complicated health problems such as long-term long conditions, Mesothelioma and Asbestosis.

What Should I Do If I Suspect Asbestos In My Home?

If you suspect that you have asbestos in your home, it’s important that you take the right steps to ensure your safety.

Firsty, you should stop working and clear the area immediately, notifying your employer (if you are working) or your landlord/building owner if the property is your home. Get in touch with anybody who may be affected by the asbestos and let them know about the hazard. Do not disturb the asbestos. This is vital to ensuring it doesn’t spread any further or become a more prominent risk.

You should call your local council for advice, or a professional service to help you deal with the asbestos. Structural surveyors may be able to assess your property and identify the source of the asbestos. They will also be able to advise you on what to do next, or find a safe way to dispose of the asbestos. Your council should also be able to give you some advice on what to do in this case.

Simon Levy Associates

Here at Simon Levy Associates, we provide a range of project management services and have a reliable team of building surveyors who are ready to help you with any property issues. For further enquiries about our services and what we do, feel free to contact us , or check out our website for more information.

Importance of Building Defect Diagnosis | Simon Levy

Thu, 11 May 2023 14:28:58 GMT

As a property surveyor, Simon Levy, it is important to understand the significance of building defect diagnosis in property surveys. Building defects can arise due to various reasons such as poor workmanship, inadequate design, or even natural disasters. These defects can lead to significant property damage, reduced property value, and even pose a safety hazard to occupants.

Therefore, it is crucial to detect and diagnose building defects early to prevent costly construction claims and ensure the safety of the property.

Building Surveyors: The Importance of Their Role

Building surveyors are qualified professionals who are specialised in identifying building defects and diagnosing the underlying causes. Their role in the property survey process is crucial to ensure that the property is safe and complies with the relevant building codes and standards.

Building surveyors conduct a thorough inspection of the property, which involves identifying any visible signs of damage, reviewing the building plans, and assessing the quality of the construction. They also use specialised equipment such as thermal imaging cameras, moisture metres, and sound detectors to identify any hidden defects that may not be visible to the naked eye. Once the building surveyor has identified the defects, they will diagnose the underlying cause and provide recommendations on how to address them. This may involve repairs or even rebuilding certain parts of the property to ensure that it is safe and complies with the relevant building codes and standards.

Construction Claims Expert: The Importance of Their Role

Construction claims experts are also an essential part of the building defect diagnosis process. They provide expert advice on construction claims and disputes that may arise due to building defects. Their role is to help clients navigate through the complex legal process and ensure that their rights are protected. Construction claims experts work closely with building surveyors to gather evidence and assess the extent of the damage caused by the building defect. They also provide expert testimony in court, which can be crucial in determining liability and the amount of compensation that may be awarded.

The Importance of Property Survey

Property surveys are a crucial process that every property owner should undertake regularly. It helps to identify any building defects and diagnose the underlying causes before they become more significant problems. Property surveys can also help to ensure that the property is compliant with relevant building codes and standards, which can help to prevent costly construction claims and protect the occupants' safety.

Building Defect Diagnosis From Simon Levy

In conclusion, building defect diagnosis is a crucial process that every property owner should undertake regularly. Building surveyors play an essential role in identifying building defects and diagnosing the underlying causes, while construction claims experts provide expert advice on construction claims and disputes. Property survey helps to ensure that the property is safe and compliant with relevant building codes and standards, and can prevent costly construction claims.

It is vital to understand the importance of building defect diagnosis and work with qualified professionals to ensure the safety of your property. Work with Simon Levy today for thorough building defect diagnostics.

Pain-Free Payouts: How to Make a Building Insurance Claim

Thu, 11 May 2023 14:17:08 GMT

The home is where the heart is - that’s a given. And so when something goes wrong, you want to ensure that you can access the insurance payment you deserve to rebuild properly. Experiencing a domestic fire, flood or leak can be very distressing, where the insurance claim process can only add to the misery of the whole experience. When you begin the claims process, it may feel overwhelming, especially with the knowledge that not all building insurance claims are successful. But it is a process like any other that can be navigated with the right information and support, so you can get back to normal as quickly as possible.

Read on for an insight into how to make a building insurance claim, with a look at what might be covered by your provider and the key steps you will need to take.

Building Insurance: What Might Be Included

Every building insurance policy differs, and often a claim will fail because the customer has misunderstood what their provider can cover. As such it is important to think about your individual needs and circumstances before taking out a policy. Usually building insurance won’t cover personal belongings, where separate contents insurance is needed for this.

The two main types of building insurance are:

Sum Insured - where the maximum payout you could secure is based on the estimated cost of rebuilding your property if it is completely destroyed

Bedroom Rated - where the maximum payout is determined based on the number of bedrooms in the property

In general, buildings insurance provides cover for damage to the internal and external structure of your home, which usually extends to permanent fixtures and fittings. Although taking out such a policy isn’t compulsory, it is highly recommended, and can be a condition of your mortgage contract.

Areas which are likely to be covered by your building insurance can include:

● Fire and smoke damage

● Vandalism and burglaries

● Motor collisions

● Water and oil leaks

● Flooding and storm damage

● Damage to garages and driveways

If these problems result in minimal damage to your property, then you may not need to make a claim, which in turn can preserve your no-claims discount. But if repairs will be costly or technically complex, then it may be time to contact your insurance provider. If your premiums do increase in price as a result, then you can always shop around for a better deal. Price comparison websites can help you to find the best cover at a low cost, where automatic premium increases can be avoided by negotiating with or changing your provider.

How To Make A Claim

The claims process may seem like a long and arduous one, but if you communicate clearly and promptly with your policy provider, then you should have your claim resolved swiftly. Read on for a look at some of the key steps in the claims process:

Contact Your Insurance Provider

It is always recommended to contact your insurance provider as soon as possible, before the damage escalates or before you begin any repair work. This can be done online or over the phone, where you will need your policy number to hand to begin your claim.

Provide Evidence

Any claim will need evidence to support it, where thoroughness and accuracy is advisable. It is likely that you will have to fill out a claims form detailing the damage, where additional evidence may then be requested. This could include receipts or bank statements for repair or replacement purchases, as well as photo and video evidence. Photos can include before and after documentation, where you can also demonstrate that you have tried to prevent further damage.

Consult The Experts

It may also be worth enlisting professional help to assess your property damage. A leak tracer, plumber or building surveyor can produce a report which can also be sent to your insurance provider as evidence. If the damage is criminal in nature, such as in the case of a burglary, then the police should be contacted before you notify your insurance provider, so that they can provide you with a crime reference number.

Loss Adjusters

If you’re making a particularly large or expensive claim, then your insurance provider may arrange for a loss adjuster to visit your property to assess the damage and potential repair costs. Your insurance company may then have their own contractors who will be enlisted to carry out the agreed upon reinstatements.

Excess Payments

Although your insurance provider will contribute to your repair costs, you will also have to put forward an agreed upon excess payment. You may have chosen a high voluntary excess, which means that you pay a lower monthly premium. Equally, if your excess is lower, then your monthly payments are higher.

Unsuccessful Claims

Your insurance provider can only decline your claim if they have good reason to do so, in accordance with their policies and your contract. If you wish, you can appeal an unfavourable decision, or file a complaint against your insurance provider.

Prevention

It is advised to take reasonable precautions in your home to prevent accidental or criminal damage, where taking these steps can help to ensure you are successful if you do have to make a claim. If your home is left vulnerable or unprotected, then it can harm your case if you are hoping to secure a payout.

Some simple precautionary steps may include:

● Preparing your home for forecasted bad weather

● Investing in fire, smoke and burglar alarms

● Locking doors and windows when you leave the property

● Keeping valuables out of site

● Regularly servicing your electrical appliances

In terms of your insurance, it is always advisable to read the small print before signing a new contract, where exclusions can cause you a headache if you do need to claim. Asking your insurance broker for tailored advice can help to prevent any future mishaps. It is also necessary to keep your insurance policy up to date to make sure you are covered properly. If you have made significant changes to your property, such as adding an extension, then your insurance provider should be notified.

Although a comprehensive policy is likely to be expensive, it is recommended that you choose insurance that leaves you properly protected. Under-insuring can cost you more in the long run, and can result in financial difficulty if your property is extensively damaged.

Choosing A Building Insurance Policy

It can be difficult to navigate the wide range of policies available, where key points to consider are what you want to be covered as standard, and how much you are willing to pay per month. Other aspects to think about may include:

Alternative accommodation : will your insurance provider find you somewhere to live if your property is uninhabitable?

Excess payments: how much are you willing to pay if you do have to make a claim - would you prefer to pay more per month to cut down on excess costs?

Flooding: are you living in a high flood risk area, and if so how does this affect your policy and premiums?

Index-linked policies: will your insurance payouts rise alongside increasing building repair and construction costs?

No-claims discount: will you benefit if you don’t claim for an extended period, and will this discount be lost if you make a small claim?

Optional extras: are you covered for escape of water, accidental damage and home emergency serving as standard, or do these cost extra to include?

Simon Levy: Assisting You With Your Property Damage Claim

At Simon Levy, we can provide you with expert advice for reporting damage to your insurer , where we can produce a comprehensive report as supporting evidence for your claim. We can also offer detailed information on the repair work you will need, including what it may cost and how long it is likely to take.

Project Management Services, Construction Dispute Consultants & Much More

In addition to this, we offer a range of building surveyance and project management services across Barnet, Watford and the Home Counties. If you need assistance with a construction dispute, planning matters or party wall negotiations then we can help. Contact our administration services today to find out more.

How to Object to a Neighbour’s Planning Application

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 10:46:09 GMT

If your neighbour’s proposed building plans are likely to have a negative impact on your lifestyle or affect the value of your property, you need to act now and do something about it. Read on to find out everything you need to know about objecting to a neighbour’s planning application.

Why might you want to object to a planning application?

There are several reasons why you may wish to object to a nearby planning application.

● Loss of privacy - if your neighbour intends to carry out renovations or extend their home in a way that would have an adverse effect on your privacy, there’s a good chance that you have strong grounds for an appeal.

● Accessibility issues - if planning permission of proposed building plans would cause accessibility issues for you or other people in the community, such as those who are disabled, then this could justify a dispute.

● Environmental threat - if you have reason to believe that your neighbour’s planning permission could affect the natural landscape or damage nearby trees, you may be able to raise a convincing dispute. You may also have grounds for an objection if the proposed building plans will affect a nearby heritage site.

● Design issues - the council will usually take into consideration the visual impact of the planning permission. This means that you may be able to dispute the plans if your neighbour intends on building something that is notably out of character for the neighbourhood, ignores local design guidelines or uses building materials that are aesthetically displeasing.

How can I object?

To object, you will need to write to the Planning Department of your local authority and quote the planning application number. There will often be a comments section on the local authority's website where you can do this, otherwise post or email is fine. The local authority will request comments within a time limit, usually twenty one days, however in practice it is often possible to object to a planning application after this time limit has expired but before planning permission has been issued. It is generally best to make your objections known as soon as possible.

If you’d like to object to a neighbour’s planning application, Simon Levy can offer planning permission help. By critiquing, analysing and scrutinising planning applications, Simon Levy Associates can support you in organising an extensive planning permission appeal letter on your behalf, which will then go into the related implications for the proposals on your property. We will survey the area, organising management, conservation guidance as well as any design or construction policy imposed by the local authority with the aim to strengthen your case. Contact us today for expert planning permission advice.

What Are Some Common Causes of Construction Disputes?

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 10:42:26 GMT

It’s common for disputes to arise from construction projects. From contract issues to a lack of risk management, read on to discover some of the most common causes of construction disputes.

Contract issues

Contract issues are a common cause of disputes between contractors and subcontractors, or clients and project teams. Sources of conflict can include disagreement on terms and conditions within the contract, or poor management of variations to the contract.

Different site conditions

Lack of clarity of changing conditions can cause problems. When the construction starts, the site condition can be different due to soil condition, subsurface conditions, unexpected structures and obstructions. Examples of differing site conditions include:

● Soil that cannot bear the weight of the project

● Solid rock underground instead of soil

● Conditions within a building, such as the discovery of asbestos

● Groundwater

● Hazardous materials, gases, or biohazards

● Underground rock formations or caves

● Quicksand

● Man-made objects of archaeological interest

● Environmental impact roadblocks

These conditions can cause disagreements and disputes.

Conflict over construction delay

Most construction projects end up with more delays than planned. If the main contractor or any subcontractor doesn’t perform their duties by the deadlines or according to the project program, it can cause delays in the whole construction project. This can lead to disputes and even liquidated damages imposed on the contractor when applicable.

Poor construction quality

If the construction process is not according to the contract drawings and specifications, then it is a cause of disputes. Contractor must follow standards and specifications stated in the construction contract before handing over. Defects and poor quality results in conflicts among the parties.

Lack of proper risk management

All construction projects should have stringent risk assessments and guidelines designed to keep everyone safe. The more complex a project is, the more extensive the risk management assessment should be - when a company skips proper risk management, employees and the project itself are in danger. Therefore, a lack of proper risk management can cause construction disputes if employees feel they are being put in an unsafe position.

Unrealistic expectations

If a customer is likely to make unrealistic demands that cannot be accommodated within the price and time constraints quoted for that project, then disputes are likely to arise.

Conflict over payment claims

Disputes over payment claims in construction can take any number of forms - in major projects involving multiple parties, payment disputes can drag on in courts, holding up projects and draining resources. If you’re experiencing a construction project dispute, you needn’t panic; our quality construction dispute consultants at Simon Levy Associates can assist you with construction dispute resolution. Get in touch today for professional construction dispute advice.

When May Structural Surveyors Be Of Use For Your Property?

Thu, 06 Apr 2023 10:34:53 GMT

Building surveyors or structural surveyors are tasked with the responsibility of assessing the condition of buildings and potential ways to improve them. This can include both domestic and commercial properties. Some key tasks of a structural surveyor can be to carry out inspections, renovations or to be expert witnesses. Keep reading to find out more about the role of a structural surveyor, what they do, and whether they may be of use to you and your property.

What Is A Structural Survey?

A structural survey is an inspection carried out by a building surveyor or an engineer, and is typically done simultaneously with a visual inspection of a property. It will be a written document that lists and describes any defects within the property. It can include suggestions for repair work, improvements and advice on potentially dangerous risks that are found within the building. The goal of a structural survey is to identify any problems with the structure of a building. This means anything that could impact the stability, safety or value of a property.

Structural surveys provide valuable information about the quality and condition of a building and it can be a useful tool for homeowners, when it comes to renovations or making changes to their property. The survey will help to outline any potential structural issues or issues that should be addressed before any construction begins.

Residential & Commercial

Structural surveys can come under different categories, depending on the type of property being surveyed. Residential surveys are carried out on domestic properties and commercial property surveys are carried out on commercial buildings. The only difference is the type of building being inspected, and both types of survey include a thorough inspection of the properties systems and structure.

Home Survey

This is a Level 1 survey, that uses a traffic light system to identify the risks and significant issues within a property. It is not a detailed report and is usually suitable when you are buying a standard, modern property that is in visibly good condition. A level 1 survey is a good way to confirm that everything with the property is generally okay.

Home Condition Survey

A home condition survey is a Level 2 survey that is commonly used for properties that appear to be in reasonable condition. This survey is designed to highlight problems that would impact the value of a property. Usually it will include advice on repairs and maintenance, and highlight anything that doesn’t meet the building’s current regulations. This is a more thorough survey than a Level 1, however, it is still considered a surface level inspection.

Full Structural Survey

A full structural survey, also known as a Level 3 Building Survey is an in-depth inspection of the condition of your property. This survey is the most detailed type of survey and is of an extremely high standard. For listed buildings or large properties, this is the recommended survey, as it is the best option for getting a complete understanding of a property.

This survey will give you a full report that details any defects, visible or hidden. It will also outline the cost of repairs that might need to be made before you go ahead with a renovation, buying or selling.

When Would I Need A Structural Survey?

Usually, structural surveys can be useful for listed buildings and properties that are over 50 years old, however, there are several other situations where using a structural survey is a good idea and could be useful to you:

Renovations

Renovations are a solid reason to look into getting a structural survey carried out. These surveys can help you to identify any structural issues within your property before you go ahead with any plans. By taking the time to plan your renovation carefully and thoroughly, you can be more effective and avoid any costly damage repairs later on down the line.

General Condition

You may be concerned about the general condition of your property, or have been noticing things that indicate there may be a problem. Typically, a visual inspection is followed by a structural survey to help you identify these issues and give you advice on repairing the problem or looking into better maintenance. This process can help you to keep the value of your home and keep the property safe.

Buying Property

When you are purchasing a property, you want to be assured that you are buying a building that is structurally sound. A structural survey can help you to understand the condition of the building you are buying, so you can make an informed decision and have all the necessary information made available to you. It will help to outline any costs of repairs or work that may need to be carried out when you purchase the property. It is more common to have only a visual inspection carried out, however, having a structural survey carried out is still a beneficial idea.

Selling Property

If you are selling a property, a structural survey should be used to demonstrate that the building is structurally sound. Proving that your building is in a good condition can allow you to work out a fair price for the property you are selling. If there are problems with the structure of your home, buyers need to be aware of this, and you should not give them false information regarding the property.

Expert Witnesses

If you find yourself having a disagreement with a neighbour over a structural issue, a structural surveyor will be able to mediate as an external third party and provide an informed, unbiased opinion on how to resolve the dispute.

What Will The Survey Include?

Typically, the survey will involve a trained professional coming to inspect the structure of the property. This could include things like cracks in the walls or any signs of water damage. They will also assess the electric and plumbing work within the property, and they will take a close look at these areas.

Property Advice

If you are having a survey carried out because you are thinking of renovating, your structural surveyor will most likely take measurements so that they can provide you with accurate drawings and plans for your proposed building work. These detailed drawings can then be passed onto your building contractor and you can be assured that any work that goes ahead has been safety approved.

Project Management Services

Project management services can be useful when it comes to your survey. If you are considering a renovation project on your property, a qualified and experienced project manager can help you develop detailed briefs and establish specific client requirements, in line with the details of your structural survey.

This can help you ensure that optimal design decisions are being made and that progress with your renovation runs as smoothly as possible.

How Long Is It Valid For?

The structure of your property will change over time, so ensuring that your survey is valid is important, especially before you buy, sell or decide to have a renovation. Structural parts of your survey may be valid for many years, however, as things change over time, your survey will only be valid for a specific period of time.

As market prices change within short periods of time however, your survey will only be valid for approximately three months. However, keep a copy of all the surveys that have been carried out, as they may still be useful as time goes on.

Simon Levy

If surveying is what you are looking for, then our expert team is here to guide you through the process. Here at Simon Levy, we are proud to offer a wide range of professional services that cater to your domestic or commercial needs. We have been surveying and valuing properties across Boreham and Hertfordshire since 1986 and over the past 30 years, our team has developed a brilliant understanding of the market and of regional construction methods.

For any enquiries about our services or how we can help you, please feel free to contact us and our property damage experts will be happy to help you with any questions or concerns you may have.

Awash With Risk: Is Your Property In Danger Of Flooding?

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 08:02:42 GMT

The threat of flooding can really dampen the buzz of moving into a property. As new housing sites can end up on floodplains, it is always recommended to be aware of the risks before you buy. Flooding can be caused by proximity to rivers, reservoirs or the sea, as well as surface or groundwater levels becoming higher than usual. These kinds of flooding can be caused by unseasonably wet weather, high tides and poor drainage, all of which can put your property at risk.

It is important to know if your home is likely to be in danger, not only for peace of mind, but also because a flood risk can affect your home’s resale value as well as your insurance. Read on to understand how to assess your risk levels.

Flood Risk Maps

The best and most reliable way to understand the likelihood of your property being flooded is to look up an official or government authenticated flood map, such as from the Environmental Agency. This will tell you the degree of risk for your specific area, and give you further advice on how to protect your home.

Speak To Those In The Know

If you’re not an expert on environmental hazards, or if you’re new to the area, then consider asking your local acquaintances or neighbours about the history of flooding near your property. Those with first hand experience in your locale will be able to give you the most accurate information. Your estate agent should also have the most recent flooding information to hand if you are looking to buy a property. Similarly your insurance provider will be able to provide you with helpful statistics on your current risk level.

Look Out For Signs Of Previous Floods

If you’re looking for an unofficial and immediate assessment of flooding in your area, then look no further than the interior of your property. A previous resident may have professionally redecorated following previous floods, but some tell-tale signs may persist, such as water lines, damp and warped flooring.

Discuss Flooding With Your Surveyor

It is a building surveyor’s job to assess the quality and condition of a property, whether domestic or commercial, and to advise you on ways to improve on discernible issues. Enquire about flood risk directly, or simply double check that flooding is included in their standard evaluation of the building.

Surveying From Simon Levy Associates

At Simon Levy Associates, we have an excellent team of chartered building surveyors that can help you to understand the flood risk of your property. We offer a broad range of surveying services, including management of party wall matters and insurance claim advice.

For more information about how we can help, contact your local property expert now.

The Ultimate Guide to Party Wall Matters: What You Need to Know

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 07:59:43 GMT

If you're planning to undertake any construction or renovation work that involves a shared wall between two properties, you may need to deal with party wall matters. These legal requirements are in place to protect both you and your neighbours from any potential property damage claims and disputes that may arise during the construction process. This guide will provide you with all the necessary party wall advice and services you need to ensure a smooth and successful project.

What is a ‘party wall’?

Although it sounds fun, a ‘party wall’ is actually a legal term. A party wall is a wall that stands between the boundaries of land belonging to two or more owners and can form part of a building, separate two or more buildings or consists of a ‘party fence wall’.

A wall is defined as a ‘party fence wall’ if it is not part of a building and it stands astride the boundary between the land of different owners as a way of separating their land, for example a masonry garden wall. Wooden fences and hedges are not defined as party fence walls.

A wall is also a party wall if it stands wholly on one owner’s land, but is used by two or more owners to separate their buildings.

So what are ‘party wall matters’?

Party wall matters are the legal requirements that come into play when you intend to carry out construction work on a shared wall between two properties. They are regulated under the Party Wall Act 1996, which outlines the necessary procedures to be followed before, during, and after construction work.

What is the Party Wall Act 1996?

The Party Wall Act 1996 requires that you serve notice to your neighbours before any work begins. This notice will detail the proposed work, the expected start date, and the proposed duration of the project. Your neighbours then have the right to object to the proposed work or ask for additional measures to be taken to protect their property. If they do not object within the specified timeframe, the work can commence as planned.

Party Wall Services

If you're looking for a professional to assist with party wall matters , there are several party wall services available to help you. Party wall surveyors can provide you with advice, guidance, and assistance with the following:

Serving Notice to Your Neighbours

Before any construction work can begin, you must serve notice to your neighbours. This notice informs them of your intention to carry out the work and provides details of the proposed work, including the expected start date and duration. Your neighbours then have the right to object to the proposed work or request additional measures to protect their property.

A Party Wall Notice is the document you serve on your neighbours. It details the works that will be carried out and it is accompanied by the building plans. There are up to three notices that need to be served, dependant on the type of building work you intend to carry out:

Section 1 – Line of Junction (one month’s notice)

Section 2 – Party Structure Notice (two months’ notice)

Section 6 – Adjacent Excavation (one month’s notice)

In some cases, all three notices will need to be served.

A party wall surveyor can help you draft and serve the notice, ensuring that it complies with the necessary legal requirements.

Preparing Party Wall Awards

If your neighbours agree to the proposed work, you must prepare a party wall award. This legal document outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties and sets out the measures to be taken to protect your neighbour's property.

A party wall surveyor can assist you in preparing the party wall award, ensuring that it is legally binding and protects you from property damage claims..

Conducting Surveys and Inspections

Before any work can begin, it's essential to conduct a survey to assess the current condition of the shared wall. This survey will help to identify any existing damage, which will then be taken into account when preparing the party wall award.

A party wall surveyor can conduct the necessary surveys and inspections, providing you with a comprehensive report on the current condition of the wall.

Handling Disputes

Disputes may arise during the construction process, particularly if your neighbours object to the proposed work. A party wall surveyor can help you to resolve any disputes that arise, ensuring that the project can continue as planned. We recommend that you, as the Building Owner who intends to do the work, first discuss the planned work with the owner of the other property affected, the ‘Adjoining Owner’. This should hopefully provide an opportunity for relevant details to be settled at the outset and allow the party wall agreement to take shape. This will help relationships with your neighbour and demonstrate that you intend to take the right steps in protecting yourself and them.

There is no need for a party wall award if your neighbour originally dissented but subsequently consented to the work The Party Wall Act 1996 is an enabling Act designed to facilitate works, not create conflict. As such, your neighbour, the Adjoining Owner, is free to change their mind at any time, if they are happy with your proposals. You should note, however, that you will still be liable for the cost of time spent by your appointed surveyor to date, as this will be covered by a separate contractual agreement.

Assessing and Resolving Property Damage Claims

If any damage occurs to your neighbour's property during the construction process, you may need to make a property damage claim. This can be a complex and time-consuming process, but a party wall surveyor can assist you in preparing and filing your claim. A party wall surveyor can assess the damage and assist you in making your property damage claim. They can also help you negotiate with your neighbour's insurance company to ensure that you receive fair compensation.

The Building Owner will be responsible for covering the costs of any repairs or property damage claims that need to be carried out on the Adjoining Owner’s property as a result of their works. They will also have to cover the surveyor’s fees for dealing with this dispute and any other party wall advice.

After the building work is completed, the Adjoining Owner or their party wall surveyor should inspect the condition of their building, comparing it to the PSoC carried out before the building work started. If any damage caused in connection with the party wall works is identified, it will become the Building Owner’s responsibility to fix it to the Adjoining Owner’s satisfaction. Alternatively, property damage claims could be paid by the Building Owner to the Adjoining Owner, and should be enough to allow the Adjoining Owner to cover the cost of ‘making good’ work themselves. It is possible that damage may become noticeable later on, as new installations settle or bed in. As there is no formal sign-off procedure, if damage can be shown to be linked to the party wall services, there can be redress from the Building Owner months after works are completed.

You should keep all party wall documentation with your property’s title deeds, so they can be referred to in the future if required. This can also help to reduce any complications during a property sale later on.

Planning Permission Help

Party wall matters are separate from planning permission requirements. While you may not need planning permission for your project, it's essential to ensure that you've obtained all necessary permits and approvals before you begin construction. A party wall surveyor can also help you navigate planning permission requirements and ensure that your project is compliant with local regulations.

Simon Levy Associates - Expert Party Wall Advice

If you're unsure whether your construction project requires party wall matters, or if you need advice on how to serve notice to your neighbours, you should seek professional party wall advice . Party wall surveyors are experts in this field and can provide you with all the necessary information and guidance you need.

Party wall services are essential for anyone planning on carrying out construction work that involves shared walls between properties. By engaging a party wall surveyor, you can ensure that all legal requirements are met, and any disputes or property damage claims are handled efficiently and professionally. If you're planning a construction project, contact a party wall surveyor to help you with the necessary legal requirements and procedures.

Simon Levy Associates are members of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors as well as of the Academy of Experts. We’re highly experienced party wall consultants who have provided administration and expert witness services in a range of highly complex party wall disputes and property damage claims where a certain skill set and knowledge is required. We pride ourselves on giving clients consistently excellent service wherever and whenever they need it. If you need professional help for party wall matters in Barnet, Watford or Borehamwood and the Home Counties as quickly as possible, we'll gladly arrange a consultation at a time that works for you. Contact us today.

Considerations to Make When Getting Planning Permission

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 12:16:22 GMT

When undergoing new building works, be it an entirely new property or a simple kitchen extension, planning permissions may be necessary. Before you begin construction or change existing ones, it is a good idea to find out whether you will need planning permission.

Undergoing construction that is not legally permitted by the proper authorities could result in an enforcement notice ordering you to revert the work done. Needless to say, this could be a major headache and a big financial loss. If you do not comply with the council, you could be prosecuted. But worse, constructions that do not receive approval may also be unsafe. It is therefore essential to apply for planning permission on projects that need it, and to meet the construction criteria, adhering to rules and regulations set out by the council and other official bodies.

Following are some key considerations to bear in mind when undergoing new construction work, regarding planning permissions.

Do You Need Planning Permission?

Some constructions fall under the ‘permitted development’ bracket, which means they will not require planning permission. Smaller scale developments, such as standard ground floor extensions, outbuildings, porches, or roof conversions (dormer windows etc) are often permitted development. However, it is always worth checking the exact permitted dimensions and specifications of these projects for your particular location and circumstances. Permissions for maisonettes, flats, listed buildings, or construction in conservation areas will be different, perhaps even non-existent.

What Factors Determine Planning Permission?

A great many factors determine the outcome of planning permission. These include things such as:

Affect on road safety and traffic

Does your construction affect and change the use of surrounding roads?

Loss of light and overshadowing

Buildings that are too tall can obstruct light for neighbouring properties, and this will likely affect whether or not you can get planning permission.

Overlooking and privacy

Similar to overshadowing, if your construction infringes upon the privacy of neighbouring properties/lands, again it will likely affect your planning permission.

Design and appearance/Character of the local area

The way your property appears and whether it is deemed acceptable by local inhabitants or authorities, perhaps even whether it is simply in keeping with the look of the local area.

Pedestrian safety

If a building is unsafe for anyone, permission will be denied. Safety will need to be demonstrable and professionally approved.

Noise and odour

Disturbing the local area with noise or odours

Loss of trees and landscaping

Chopping down trees and other landscaping projects that change the appearance of the local area is an issue that concerns councils and inhabitants, therefore affecting planning permission. There are many more parameters affecting your planning permission than these alone, so it’s always worth checking and even hiring experts for advice and assessments.

Expert Advice and Application Services

The surest way to receive planning permission and avoid having to undo or alter complex construction work is to receive advice and guidance from professionals . Consult building surveyors, project management services, or planning application experts to have everything go off without a hitch.

Contact Simon Levy today for any of these services and more.

The Benefits of Hiring a Construction Expert Witness

Tue, 14 Feb 2023 12:13:42 GMT

Buildings and construction processes are complicated and multifaceted. There are many rules and laws governing how things should or should not be built. It may be an issue of general safety or issues concerning boundaries or planning permissions.

With every step of the building process needing to adhere to rigorous rules and regulations, there are unfortunately many ways in which disputes can arise over a construction project. These disputes can depend on very technical, specialist construction knowledge, both practically and legally. This is where a construction expert witness can help to resolve such a dispute as smoothly as possible. If you have some concerns with a construction or a construction dispute, it might be worth hiring an expert to help and advise you.

In this article, we explain what exactly a construction expert witness is, what they can help you with, and all the resultant benefits of using one.

What is a Construction Expert Witness?

An expert witness is simply someone with specialist knowledge in a given area, that is therefore able to give the most relevant, impartial, and expert assessment of a situation. They are often used to settle disputes either in or out of court, but may serve other purposes too. For example, a construction expert witness could evaluate properties and information before you invest in them, or save you from entering into an inadvisable dispute in the first place. With the information they provide, you can make the best decisions either way when it comes to property and construction.

The construction expert must be just that, an expert. Somebody highly trained, qualified, and established in the relevant field. Anyone not meeting these criteria, even if they have some experience, will not serve appropriately to perform expert witness duties.

What Can a Construction Expert Witness Help With?

A construction expert witness can help with a variety of issues. As mentioned above, construction can be a complicated topic with many layers and legal ins and outs.

Some common affairs a construction expert witness can help you with include:

Insurance Claims

Whether to check what insurance you are due or what you are liable for with a construction project, this is a classic area in which having a construction expert witness can help.

Boundary Disputes

Boundary disputes including party walls are some of the most common construction disputes. An expert construction witness will be able to tell you exactly what is and isn’t within your rights, and the details of why - as well as state your case to official bodies, such as the courts.

Planning Permission Conflicts

Planning permission legalities and rights can become very complicated. A construction expert witness will know all the relevant details regarding your planning permission case and assist you in reaching the desired outcome effectively, if possible.

Design Evaluation

When designing a construction or determining the information of an existing one, a construction expert can help you wade through the evaluations to clarify what should and shouldn’t be, and who may be liable for what.

Health and Safety Concerns

It is imperative constructions adhere to health and safety regulations, to be sure whether they do or do not, expert assessment and advice are key.

Construction Expert Witnesses Save You Time

One major benefit you gain from using an expert construction witness is time. Less time spent on disputes, more time on what matters - like moving into your new property, or living in a home with no dangerous issues. Without expert assessments and advice, muddling your way through a construction-related dispute could take a long time, as you will have to find things out as you go. This can result in a lot of surprises as each stone is overturned and a new issue arises that sends you back to the drawing board.

With a construction expert guiding you from the start, the whole process will be streamlined as effectively as possible.

Provide Peace of Mind

It goes without saying that a drawn-out construction dispute doesn’t just drain your time but causes stress. The longer it goes on, the longer you have to endure generally stressful circumstances. Furthermore, each time you have to determine a new piece of information without specialist knowledge it can be daunting, and leave a lot of room for uncertainty as to whether you’re making the right decision.

Using a construction expert witness gives you peace of mind, as they will concern themselves with all of the nitty-gritty, and make it as plain as possible for you what’s happening and what you should do. You therefore can rest assured that circumstances are being attended to as well as possible, without having to take full responsibility and learn all the mechanics and proceedings from scratch.

Prevent Much Bigger Expenses

Without an expert on hand, it goes without saying that it’s easier to make mistakes on matters in a specialised field. Without a very in-depth knowledge yourself, you can be caught out of the blue by technicalities and legalities that backfire on you. When it comes to property and construction, a lot of investment is being made. Whether you’re buying a property, having work done on one, or entering into a legal dispute, big money is at stake.

Any mistake made in these situations, any legal dispute lost or construction project prohibited, can wind up costing you big time. By comparison, it could be a small expense to hire an expert witness, who’s highly professional and specialised and therefore unlikely to make any mistakes in the matter. To avoid entering an ill-advised dispute and losing out, or from failing where you shouldn’t with similar financial results, it’s advisable to hire a construction expert witness.

Give Clarity

Dealing with construction legalities and processes can sometimes feel like entering a labyrinth of complicated jargon. Being unsure of the terminology or the practices governing the details and larger concepts of a dispute makes it much harder to make decisions and take appropriate action. With an expert, you will be told as clearly as possible all the ins and outs concerning your particular case. Without having to learn all the background knowledge, the construction expert witness can relay to you everything you need to know in simple, clear layman’s terms. This will enable you to make sure decisions every step of the way.

Inform

The information you learn through your expert witness could go on to guide you in future endeavours as well. Whereas without them, you might still miss certain key pieces of information throughout proceedings that could have helped. Information that could continue to help you in the future, should you encounter similar circumstances again.

Inspire Confidence

It’s not just emotional and practical components a construction expert witness helps you with. It’s entering into a case or dispute in the first place. Without a specialist backing you, and all the information and support they can provide, or guidance throughout the process, it can be easy to be put off entirely. Thinking about contending with such high-stakes scenarios without personal expertise may cause individuals to pull out of disputes they should have won. To know one way or another, and have confidence in your side of things, you may need the support and insight provided by the professional. Avoid losing out unnecessarily or feeling insecure throughout a dispute by hiring an appropriate construction expert witness .

Keep Things Professional

Either party in a dispute can hire an expert witness. This is not to say the expert witness will take their side only. In fact, it is a construction expert witness’s role to remain impartial and simply supply the hard facts and information. Because of this impartiality and expertise, hiring a witness makes any dispute much more professional and organised. With the appropriate external assistance beside either one party or both parties, disputes are much less likely to become messy or emotionally fraught.

It provides some distance between the disputing parties, which can be helpful for a number of reasons, from diffusing tensions to streamlining the whole experience for everyone involved.

Construction Dispute Advice from Simon Levy’s Construction Dispute Consultants

If you’re looking for any help with a construction dispute, be it simple advice or an expert witness, get in touch with Simon Levy. Contact our administration services today for help with boundary disputes, construction planning matters, project management services and more. We’re always happy to help.

How to Choose the Right Building Surveyor

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 14:31:13 GMT

When you need a property survey, it’s important to choose the right building surveyors for the job. There are many types of surveys, so it’s a good idea to check on what is available and determine your particular needs. Are you looking at a property survey? A dilapidation inspection? Do you need measurement surveys?

It’s usually easiest to reach out to a survey company that provides multiple building surveyors, so you can have some backup if one of them cannot do the job. This also gives you additional help in case the original surveyor is ill or unable to work.

What Do Building Surveyors Do?

Property surveys involve a surveyor going through the property and following a checklist to determine whether or not the building or property has any issues and to what extent these will affect the buyer.

Some of the more common problems that surveyors look for during their inspection include:

● Damp

● Rot

● Mould

● Cracking

● Hazardous materials

● Insect infestations

● Structural defects

While they cannot check inside walls or pipes, the surveyor will carefully check all areas that are accessible. They also know what signs to look for in order to spot potential water damage and leaks. For example, while termites may be inside the walls, the surveyor knows the signs of this type of insect infestation and can let you know if this is something you should be looking for when doing a more thorough inspection.

In some cases, the building surveyors will recommend having further investigations done, such as drainage surveys or dry rot inspections. If they’ve noticed something that requires a closer look, additional inspections are a good idea. This could save you a lot of time and money if there is something seriously wrong with a property or building.

What to Look for in a Building Surveyor

At first glance, you may think that all building surveyors are the same, but there are certainly differences. There are a few things you should consider before hiring someone.

What Qualifications Do They Have?

Before you hire anyone to handle your survey needs, it’s important to find out if they’re qualified. You should look for building surveyors who are members of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RIS), as they have many regulations for those who join. Every RICS surveyor will have professional indemnity insurance, which will help protect you against any errors they may make. They also have a very strict code of conduct, so if there are any problems with the surveyor, you can report them to RICS.

Are They Local?

Ideally, the building surveyors you are considering will be near your project. This is a good idea for several reasons.

First, you will have less in fees to pay if the surveyor isn’t travelling as far. Travel fees and time can really add up, so you should always ask about this before you schedule a visit.

Second, you want the ability to talk with the surveyor. While the pandemic has made it more common to talk online, you will likely feel more comfortable if you can meet face to face with the person and get a feel for who they are. This also allows you to form a bond, which is easier to do when you are face to face with the person.

In addition, it’s helpful to have a surveyor who is already familiar with the area and knows the local issues. They will be familiar with how homes were built throughout the area and may also have the connections needed for further investigation if you need it.

What Surveys Do They Offer?

Since there are a variety of surveys on offer, find out which ones are provided by the surveyor company. Ask about the depth of the surveys as well, since some are based on mortgage valuation and are less intense than an in-depth investigation.

You should also ask about the format of the feedback and property advice. Will you receive a report that is easy to read and can be shown to your bank or others in order to prove the value of the property? It’s essential that the report is designed to be clear and concise about the surveyor’s findings.

What Do They Charge?

The cost of the survey is going to affect who you choose. It’s a good idea to ask for quotes from a few different companies before you settle on one. There may be extra fees involved for certain types of surveys and while this is a necessary investment for the property, you should feel confident that you know what is being charged. It’s also important that the surveyor is not overcharging.

It's not important to go for the cheapest surveyor on the market. In fact, this is rarely a good idea. Instead, you want to look for a surveyor who is worth the price and has the experience to make it worth paying them. If you opt for the cheapest person, you’ll likely get what you pay for and end up with a less than helpful survey report. However, you do need to ensure you are within the budget for the project.

Are They Familiar with Your Property Type?

Each property type requires a certain kind of walkthrough and investigation. If the surveyor you’re working with is not familiar with your property type, they may find it difficult to properly assess. You need someone who has the necessary skills to assess your property and provide property advice based on their findings. Look for someone with that experience.

Can They Meet Your Deadlines?

Chances are, you have a set timeline for your project. This means you’ll need to know more about the property by the deadline, in order to apply for a mortgage application or submit a purchase request. It’s a good idea to discuss deadlines with the building surveyors and find out how far ahead they’re booked.

While it can be a good sign if the surveyor is busy, it may also cause issues with your timeline if they are too busy. Be sure to ask what their turnaround is, as this is the most important factor of all.

Remember that there are two parts to the survey. First, they need to actually inspect the property and check everything out. Second, they’ll need to provide the property advice and written report. While the actual survey doesn’t need to take all day (though sometimes it can), you will need to wait some time for the actual report. Be sure to ask about the turnaround on both sections of the survey.

Ideally, you’ll hire a surveyor for a property survey early on. They’ll need time to get all the information to you and if you’re working on last minute deadlines, you may not get everything done in time.

Do They Have Backup?

In the case of companies that have multiple surveyors , you will find it easier to find someone to handle the project if one cannot do it. Having backup is always useful and you’ll find that working with a company is often best.

In addition to always having a surveyor available to you, it’s helpful to have a company full of building surveyors as they can brainstorm together. There is plenty of collaboration, which can be quite useful for producing high quality property reports. If you need additional service, there is usually someone who can manage the type of report you need. Since everyone has different experience levels, you can work with the same company for years and have multiple options for properties, yet always get an expert in that area to help with the survey.

Do Others Recommend Them?

It’s always a good idea to do some research before hiring someone. Whether you are working with a company or prefer to hire an individual contractor, learning more about them is a good idea. You may ask for recommendations first from other people who have had similar surveys done, or you could just look for online reviews.

People tend to go online if they have had a wonderful experience with someone and also if their experience was terrible. This works to your benefit, since you can easily check online to see if there are any reviews of the surveyor or company. They may provide some insight as to why one surveyor is better than another.

Finding Your Property Surveyor

Now that you know what you’re looking for in a property surveyor, it’s a good idea to start interviewing. You can get some quotes and start talking to the various surveyors to determine where you want to begin. It shouldn’t be difficult to find the right fit when you know what to ask.

Are you searching for the best building surveyors? At Simon Levy, we offer a range of experts in all areas of property surveys, including dilapidation inspect, measurement surveys, and regular property surveys. Contact us now to learn more.

Why You Need Building Surveyors

Wed, 18 Jan 2023 14:29:16 GMT

Building surveyors are an important part of the real estate and construction industry. A proper assessment of the property is essential if you are planning to purchase land or build a new project.

Why should you consider hiring chartered surveyors to examine the land you intend to purchase or build on? There are many reasons this is a good idea.

Determine the Condition of Existing Structures

Before you purchase a building, you need to know what to expect from it. What condition is the building in? Will it work for your purposes? If there are structural abnormalities or anything you need to know about before purchasing, the surveyor can advise you. The additional information may help you decide whether or not you should complete the purchase.

Prevent Harm to the Surrounding Environment

Even if you have no intention of building an eco-friendly smart house, it’s a good idea to ensure you don’t do any extra damage to the property. Preventing additional environmental harm is the best way build and building surveyors can help with this. They will let you know what you should avoid and where to leave the natural flora in place.

Note Any Problems or Concerns with the Property

Measurement surveys will help you determine where the property lines are and can also help you figure out the best place to build. However, surveyors are also there to ensure any issues with the property are spotted early. This will help you decide how to sort the issues before they interfere with the building you are planning. For example, if you intend to build a tall building, but the ground is too soft, you will need to make adjustments. This may require deeper foundations and more structural additions to keep the building secure.

It's all determined by the original surveys, which will indicate what you need to do.

Stay Abreast of Local Regulations

Chartered surveyors are fully aware of the local regulations and rules around property development. You may even consider project management services to ensure your construction is always done to fit the regulations. They can help you, along with contract administration services, to make the construction project run smoother.

There are plenty of things to consider before you purchase and develop a piece of land. When you have a property that you feel is a good fit, you’ll find it is best to hire the building surveyors to ensure everything goes according to plan. There’s nothing worse than discovering halfway through building that the ground is not as stable as expected, or that there is more of a slope than anticipated.

If you’re looking for quality building surveyors or project management services, you can find them with Simon Levy. We offer experienced surveyors for your land or building projects. Contact us to learn more.

How Can an Expert Witness Help With My Construction Project?

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 15:13:30 GMT

In the event of a construction accident case, the claimant may benefit significantly from a construction expert witness testifying on their behalf. This is especially true if the case involves complex liability issues, medical complications and industry laws that are difficult to understand. As a property buyer, you may not be particularly versed on all of the ins and outs of construction rules and regulations. A construction expert witness, on the other hand, is a highly experienced individual whose duty it is to examine all aspects of property building. They will be able to identify any potential shortcomings or problems and compare them to the contract’s original provisions. Having this expertise on your side could in turn save you vast amounts of time and money. Below are three of the key benefits of hiring a construction expert witness from a reputable surveyor practice .

1. Provision of Accurate and Trustworthy Guidance

It goes without saying that when you hire a construction expert witness, you are hiring someone who is considered to be an authority figure in their industry. As a result, you can rest assured that any guidance or feedback they offer is reliable and trustworthy thanks to their wealth of experience. They’ll also be able to break down complex concepts into terms that you can understand, ensuring that you’re on the same page every step of the way. If court action is required, involving a specialist of this kind is invaluable to the case you’re making.

2. Experience with Similar Cases

There may have been several instances previously where construction expert witnesses have worked on cases similar to your own. As a result, they will be able to utilise those past experiences to guide you appropriately in the present.

3. Simplifying Legal Concepts

A construction expert witness is trained in the art of communicating complex industry-specific terms or concepts clearly and concisely. As a property owner, though you may believe that you are well-versed in all of the necessary information to succeed in a case - knowing how to negotiate the contract conditions and so on - but you cannot underestimate the assistance of a construction expert witness. You will be provided with an effective resource to defend your case that is based on real facts. This is especially beneficial if you have a landlord or tenant that is attempting to bend the truth in a bid to undermine your statement’s legitimacy.

Seek Assistance from Simon Levy Associates

Simon Levy is frequently appointed as an expert witness thanks to our ability to provide impartial expert opinion on property matters. With over 30 years of experience, we have extensive knowledge of building defects and diagnoses. From boundary and construction disputes to defect and dilapidation diagnosis, we have built up a reputation as a team of trusted and reliable construction expert witnesses in Borehamwood, Greater London and the surrounding areas. For more information regarding our specialist construction expert witness service, please get in touch .

Listed Building Renovations: What You Need to Know

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 14:54:20 GMT

Restoring, refurbishing or making adjustments to a period building poses a series of challenges that modern buildings don’t. Whether the property in question is Grade I, II* or II listed, you will need Listed Building Consent before any interior or exterior work can commence.

What is a Listed Building?

A listed building is one that is deemed to be of national importance, and has thus been placed on the List of Buildings of Special Architectural or Historic Interest by Historic England. Listed buildings and structures are legally protected from being drastically altered, extended or demolished, unless Listed Building Consent has been obtained from the local planning authority.

There are three main classifications of listed buildings:

● Grade I: Buildings of extraordinary interest. These include landmarks such as Buckingham Palace, the Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge.

● Grade II*: Important buildings of more than special interest - usually with additional merit, such as immaculate interiors. Examples include the London Coliseum and Leadenhall Market.

● Grade II: Other buildings of special architectural or historical importance.

What is a Grade II Listed Building?

Over 90% of listed buildings in the UK are Grade II listed, including many private homes, so it’s highly likely that your property falls into this category. Whilst the rules are much less stringent than they would be for a higher list grade, there are nonetheless additional regulations in place to protect these buildings.

Listed Building Consent must be obtained in addition to all of the standard planning-application . Local authorities in the UK receive upwards of 30,000 applications for Listed Building Consent per year, the majority of which are granted. Conservation officers will consider each application individually, ensuring that the historical or architectural character of the building is being preserved. It is a criminal offence to start work on a listed building without the necessary permissions.

What Can Be Done to a Grade II Building?

Modernising a Grade II listed building is perfectly possible, so long as it falls within the law. If in doubt, erring on the side of caution is always best. Historic England’s Guide for Owners of Listed Buildings is a handy resource that any period building owner should be familiar with. In most cases, maintenance in a Grade II property without permission is acceptable if ‘like-for-like’ materials are used. This can be discussed with your Conservation Officer and a reliable surveyor .

What Can’t I Do to a Grade II Building?

Below are the key considerations to keep in mind when renovating your listed property:

● Don’t remove any original features such as windows, doors, fireplaces or stonework without consent. Any unauthorised violations will violate the listed status.

● Don’t replace old with new. Any repairs to traditional construction must be conducted with the right materials and methods so as to not damage the building.

● Don’t rush to renovate the garden without first checking if any exterior elements are included in the listing. You might not be able to remove an original garden wall or gate, for example.

Need More Help?

With over 30 years of experience in performing structural surveys , Simon Levy Associates are qualified to undertake a thorough examination of the building structure using specialist surveying equipment. You can count on us to uncover the reality of your property’s condition and how you can work within any perimeters. Get in touch with us today to discuss your requirements with a structural surveyor in our Borehamwood offices.

Loft Conversions and Party Walls: Understanding the Rules

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 14:22:33 GMT

If you’re in the planning phase of a loft conversion in a semi-detached or terraced house, it is highly likely that your plans will impact a party wall. Any structural work that affects this shared wall (or walls) will require specific permissions from your neighbour, on top of the standard planning permissions and regulations.

Why Do I Need Consent From My Neighbours?

Even if your proposed loft conversion falls within the boundaries of a ‘permitted development’, the Party Wall Act 1996 will come into play if you need to cut into a shared wall to install support beams for the conversion. Additionally, if the work involves any demolition of part of the wall - even if you plan to rebuild it - this will need to be agreed to. It is recommended that you discuss the proposed project with your neighbour as early in advance as possible, as you will need to agree to the terms of a Party Wall Award before any work can commence. Despite the fact that your neighbour cannot technically prevent you from going ahead with the project, getting them on board will nonetheless help the process to run more smoothly.

Giving Notice

Even if you have had a productive discussion with your neighbour about your prospective works and they have given you their verbal consent, you are still required to serve a formal Party Wall Notice, as stated under Section 3 of the Act. This notice must:

● Be served to the legal owners of the affected adjoined property.

● Be served at least two months before the intended start date (the notice is valid for up to a year).

● Include information pertaining to the relevant parts of the Act, along with information regarding the proposed work.

● Outline the adjoining owner’s right to raise objections to the terms of the work, appoint their own surveyor and take measures to protect their home whilst work is being carried out.

Party Wall Awards

If your neighbours fail to respond to the Party Wall Notice, or if they choose to dissent, you will need to come to an agreement about the proposed work in the form of a Party Wall Award. This will be drawn up by a jointly-appointed party wall surveyor or through the negotiation of separate surveyors that will represent either party.

The purpose of the Party Wall Award is to resolve any contentious disputes in a practical and fair way. It may cover the proposed plans for the work, acceptable working hours, access allowance and what steps can be taken to protect both buildings. The Party Wall Award will typically contain a Schedule of Condition, meaning that any damage that occurs during the works can be properly attributed.

How to Find a Party Wall Surveyor

If you’re seeking a reliable and experienced party wall surveyor who can take on a jointly-appointed case or work as a separate surveyor, look no further than Simon Levy Associates. Our team specialise in party wall matters and will be happy to assist you with any queries you may have about work being carried out on a shared wall. For more information, please get in touch .

Party Wall Agreements: Advice for Adjoining Owners

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 14:14:45 GMT

According to the Party Wall Act 1996 , should a property owner wish to perform any modifications to their property that affects a shared wall, they must follow a precise procedure to protect both their interests and those of the affected adjoining owner. In an ideal scenario, the building owner has taken the time to discuss the proposed plans with their neighbours well in advance. However, it’s not uncommon for adjoining owners to only be made aware of the project when they receive a Party Wall Notice. Regardless, it’s crucial that the adjoining owners understand their rights and how their response will affect the process.

What Rights Do Adjoining Owners Have?

In return for the building owner to be able to carry out the proposed work, they must comply with the Party Wall Act, including notifying all adjoining owners in advance of the work starting. They also have a legal duty to rectify any damage caused by the work. Although adjoining owners don’t have the power to stop the work from happening completely, they can do the following:

● Influence how and what times the work is performed.

● Appoint a surveyor to facilitate dispute resolution.

● Ask for security to protect the adjoining property from any potential damage.

● Not tolerate any unnecessary inconvenience.

● Receive compensation for any damage or loss to property.

How Can Adjoining Owners Object?

When adjoining owners receive a Party Wall Notice, they can opt to consent or dissent it. If no response is made after 14 days, the parties are deemed to be in dispute and must then hire a surveyor to agree to a Party Wall Award. The Party Wall Award is a legally binding document for all parties, which lays out the details of the proposed works, as well as all safeguards agreed to ensure that the work poses minimal disruption or damage to the adjoining owners.

Receiving a Party Wall Notice

The first option you have as an adjoining owner who has received a Party Wall Notice is to consent to the proposed work. This option is not often recommended as it leaves your property vulnerable to associated risks that the building owner may not be considered responsible for. Even if you don’t have concerns about the work, dissenting in order to have a Party Wall Award drafted is a sensible course of action as the current condition of your property will be documented.

Opting for a Shared or Separate Surveyor

It’s up to you to decide whether you’re comfortable with sharing the same surveyor as your neighbour. This is a common practice, and the surveyor is obligated to act impartially. However, it’s crucial that the chosen surveyor is versed in Party Wall matters , including Schedules of Condition and Party Wall Awards. If you’re unhappy with sharing, you can employ your own separate surveyor. The two surveyors will then negotiate the terms of the Party Wall Award and come to an agreement that is fair and reasonable for both parties.

Reliable & Experienced Party Wall Surveyors

At Simon Levy Associates, we are extensively versed in party wall matters and can act on behalf of either party (or as a joint-appointed surveyor) for renovations, construction and demolition work. Need assistance with making changes to a party wall, or are you an adjoining owner who needs help understanding how party wall alterations will affect your property? Get in touch today.

3 Types of Property Damage that Require an Insurance Claim

Wed, 09 Nov 2022 13:29:20 GMT

Although no one wishes to be in a situation where they need to make an insurance claim , the small price to pay for a home insurance policy is nothing in comparison to the expenses you’d be faced with should you not be covered and experience property damage. No one thinks it will happen to them, but events that result in severe property damage occur a lot more often than you might think. In the unfortunate situation that this does happen to you, making an insurance claim can be a long and burdensome process. This is why it is a good idea to enlist the help of a chartered surveyor in making a building insurance claim.

Listed below are 3 serious causes of property damage that people face.

Subsidence

What is Subsidence?

Subsidence is the term used to describe the process of the ground sinking, typically when it occurs underneath a building. This movement usually results in a building’s foundations shifting or sinking, which can cause unbalance to the rest of the building’s structure and result in cracks and/or movement in the walls and floors.

There are multiple factors that may cause subsidence to happen. These can be:

Man-made

- Leaking drains: If there is a leak in nearby drains or water mains, then the excess water has the potential to soften or even wash away the soil, particularly sandy or gravelly soil types.

- Mining activity: If a building is located above a former mine or quarry, then the fill-in material that replaces these sometimes has the potential to collapse if it is not of adequate stability.

Natural

- Soil conditions: Certain weather conditions may cause certain soil types (such as clay soils) to shrink, crack or shift in periods of dryness and heat if their water-content is low.

- Tree and shrub roots: Clay soils may also lose water if certain trees or shrubs are nearby, as their roots will seek out and absorb more water from the soil, causing it to dry out and shift.

The Damage

Property damage as a result of subsidence can range from mild to severe depending on the degree of subsidence and how early it is detected. If you notice cracks starting to form in your walls, don’t assume that it is subsidence straight away, since cracks are commonly the result of damp, humidity changes, settlement, or general ageing.

Instead, look out for these characteristics in any cracks:

● Located near doors and/or windows

● Visible from both inside and outside

● Wider at the top, slimmer at the bottom and diagonally positioned

● More than 3mm wide (a 10p coin)

Other indicators include windows or doors sticking (due to warping in the frames), cracks and creases in wallpaper where the wall joins the ceiling, sloping floors and cracks where an extension meets a house.

It is important to seek someone out straight away to inspect your house for subsidence should you notice any of these signs. If left untreated, subsidence can lead to serious structural damage and, in some cases, even collapse. A property’s value can decrease by up to 20% if there is a subsidence issue, which is even more of an incentive to get it looked into by a building surveyor.

Fire

Fire Outbreaks

Unlike hotter climates where naturally occurring fires are a larger threat (such as Australia), housefires in the UK are often more accidental. Most home insurance policies will cover accidental fire damage, though this can make things slightly ambiguous when determining whether the cause counts as accidental or not.

Here are some common causes that typically do tend to be considered as accidental fires:

Natural

- Sun rays: Sun rays shining through windows are highly capable of starting fires, especially if they are magnified or hitting something flammable. For example, sun rays reflecting off a mirror or magnifying through a glass can direct the heat onto flammable bedding and start a fire, or if they are focused on an aerosol can then the heat may cause it to explode.

- Lightning: With the increase of global warming, thunderstorms are much more prevalent in the UK. During an electrical thunderstorm, lighting may strike your house and cause a fire - especially if your house construction is made with natural materials such as wood or a thatched roof, which alight easily.

Human Error

- Cooking: The kitchen tends to be the main room in which you’d expect to see a fire, mainly the result of two things: oil and heat. Oil and fat splatters can quickly start a fire, especially if they come into contact with something flammable, such as kitchen roll or a towel. Likewise, pans (poor quality or old ones especially) can overheat and burn the contents if cooking is left unattended, also having the ability to start a fire.

- Electrical equipment: There are many instances where electrical equipment may start a fire. This could be leaving an appliance on by mistake (e.g. hair straighteners), overloading an extension socket, frayed wires, inadequate wiring and many more.

- Candles: Whether you enjoy making your house smell nice or you simply need a lightsource in a blackout, many people burn candles in their home. However, candles should not be left unattended or placed on an uneven surface, near flammable materials or in the reach of children/pets, since they can easily flicker and burn out of control or fall and set something alight.

- Christmas decorations: Christmas trees and decorations are key culprits of house fires during the festive season. Natural Christmas trees can easily catch fire if they are placed too close to a heat source or are insufficiently watered. As for decorations, traditional Christmas lights run the risk of overheating if even one bulb is blown, which is why LED lights are now favoured and recommended.

The Damage

The damage caused by a house fire often comes in three stages: flame damage, smoke damage and third party damage.

Damage caused by flames is the most obvious, this will burn your interior and belongings, often leaving them beyond repair and even having the ability to cause structural damage depending on the type of fire.

Smoke damage tends to have longer term effects, discolouring your walls and ceilings and even leaving a smell that will cling to the interior of your house and furniture that is extremely hard to get rid of.

Third party damage is any damage caused by the intervention of the fire. For example, water used by firefighters to extinguish the fire can absorb into your walls and lead to damp or mould, similarly certain chemicals may have been used to extinguish the fire that would need to be removed by a professional.

Flooding

Causes

Flooding is a high-risk issue for many homes across the UK. Being an island that experiences frequent rainfall, it’s no surprise that there is ample flood guidance available due to the vast amount of people who are likely to experience flooding, whether they live inland or in coastal areas.

Here are three common causes of flooding that could affect people residing in different areas:

Flash flooding: Flash flooding occurs following sudden heavy rainfall. This can be particularly severe in urban areas, where concrete ground is less sufficient in absorbing copious amounts of rainwater, leading to surface water flooding. Those who live in valleys or low lying areas may also experience flash flooding more intensely, since the water will run down from high ground to these areas and has nowhere to escape to.

Coastal flooding: As the name suggests, coastal flooding typically affects those living close to the sea. High tides and stormy weather (both increased by climate change) results in the sea overcoming sea defences and reaching further than the coastline, affecting any properties situated there.

River flooding: The UK is home to almost 1,500 rivers, which makes it no shock that river flooding is one of the most commonly occurring. This happens when rivers become too full and spill over the riverbank. The increase of urbanisation, resulting in more impermeable surfaces and less vegetation to intercept the water’s flow, increases the likelihood and severity of river flooding.

The Damage

As well as soaking and ruining many of your belongings, flooding can lead to extensive water damage in your property that results in stains, mould, mildew and damage to your electrics. In instances where the flow of flood water is particularly strong, it may even cause structural damage to your building.

Flood damage will often leave your home inhabitable whilst you are waiting for it to dry out and any damage to be fixed. Certain bacteria may be present in flood water that also poses a health threat that would need to be resolved before you move back in.

Making a Property Damage Claim in Watford

Simon Levy Associates understands the difficulty you may experience when trying to make a property damage insurance claim, especially when this is a difficult experience to process in and of itself.

Offering our services to Borehamwood, Barnet and Watford, our professional team will liaise with your insurance provider to ensure your claim is dealt with both adequately and quickly to get you the compensation you are entitled to. We are also able to assist in damage assessment, advising you on the scope and quality of the repair work your property requires and ensuring that such work is overseen.

If you have experienced property damage and require help in making and navigating an insurance claim, then contact us today and we will put you in touch with one of our chartered surveyors.

3 Factors To Consider When Hiring A Surveyor

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 13:52:27 GMT

Building surveyors are an essential part of any construction or renovation project you’ll undertake. Trained professionals, you should see them as a construction expert that makes sure everything is done to a high standard. They’ll ensure the renovation or construction is done the way it should be.

Not all local surveyors are the same, and some will be much more equipped for your needs than others. You’ll need to find the right one for your renovation or construction project. What should you look for when hiring building surveyors?

Three particular factors stand out. They’ll help with your decision more than you’d think.

Qualifications

Surveying isn’t an area that anybody can get into. It requires qualifications before anyone can even consider calling themselves a construction expert. Most will have some construction-related degree, such as property development or surveying.

Coupled with that is accreditation. In England, the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors oversees this. It certifies that a specific professional has the training, knowledge, and experience needed to perform the work you’re hiring them for.

If the local surveyors you’re considering lack these degrees or accreditation, they shouldn’t be worth considering. On the other hand, you’ll find options that have a wealth of education and certifications, which come highly recommended.

References

Every company claims the work they do is top quality and that you’ll have nothing to worry about that. Of course they’ll say that, as they’re not going to say anything negative about themselves. To make sure what they’re saying is actually accurate, you’ll need to get some references.

Previous clients can tell you exactly what their experience was with the local surveyors they used, giving you a much more accurate impression of their work. The better-recommended a particular construction expert is, the more confident you should feel in hiring them.

The same can be said if references are negative. Avoid these at all costs.

Experience

Surveying is a broad field, and there are multiple specialities in it. You’ll need to take this into account when considering building surveyors. Two options won’t be alike. Not only will they have different degrees of experience, but they could specialise in vastly different areas.

You’ll have to make sure they’re experienced enough in the area you’re having surveyed. Hiring a construction expert that has this - or even a company that employs multiple surveyors - makes sure everything is looked over the way it should be.

Taking this approach is also useful if you have multiple properties, as hiring the same local surveyors makes sure everything is consistent.

Here at Simon Levy associations, we are a team of experienced building surveyors, specialising in all aspects of the process. Our qualified local surveyors are more than happy to provide you with multiple references to help you make your decision.

As a qualified construction expert, we’ll make sure all work is carried out the way it should be. Your home will be as safe as possible after getting approved by us. What’s stopping you from properly taking care of your house?

Get in touch today , and we’ll be happy to help you.

8 Important Steps When Renovating An Old House

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 13:30:45 GMT

If you're thinking about renovating an old house, there are a few important steps you'll need to take first. Most people think it is easy to fix up a fixer-upper but fail to realise the potential difficulties involved. This is especially true if you're planning on living in the house during the renovations. Below are eight important steps you should take before starting any work on your old house.

1. Surveyors

The first step is to hire a surveyor or building surveying company. The surveyors will help you determine the condition of the property and identify any potential problems. Building surveying is an important step because it will help you avoid any costly surprises later on. Knowing what to expect is far better than finding out too late that something is wrong.

2. Project Plan

The second step is to create a project plan. This should be a detailed document that outlines the scope of work, timeline, budget, and other important information. Creating a project plan will help you stay organised and on track during the renovation process.

3. Financing

The third step is to secure financing for the project. This may include taking out a loan or using personal savings. It is important to have a solid financial plan in place before starting any work on the property.

4. Construction Permits

The fourth step is to obtain all necessary construction permits. Depending on the work you're planning to do, you may need multiple permits from different agencies. It is important to research the permit requirements before starting any work.

5. Hire Contractors

The fifth step is to hire contractors to do the work. This includes finding a general contractor, electrician, plumber, and other workers. It is important to get multiple bids from different contractors before making any decisions.

6. Schedule Inspections

The sixth step is to schedule inspections with the local building department. These inspections are typically required at various stages of construction. Failure to pass an inspection can result in delays or additional work being required.

7. Move In

The seventh and final step is to move into your newly renovated home! This is an exciting time but it is also important to be prepared for any unforeseen problems that may arise. Be sure to have a solid plan in place and you'll be sure to enjoy your new home for years to come.

8. Maintenance

An important step that is often overlooked is maintenance. Once you've completed all the renovations and moved into your home, it's important to keep up with the maintenance. This includes things like painting, repairing any damage that may occur, and cleaning the gutters. Neglecting the maintenance of your home can lead to problems down the road.

Simon Levy Associates: Chartered Surveyors

If you’re considering investing in a house for renovation, be sure to have the premises assessed beforehand. Here at Simon Levy Associates, our team specialise in surveying both commercial and residential properties, identifying potential issues and underlying problems.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today to discuss your needs.

Call us on 020 8207 6100 or send an email to info@simonlevy.net .

Planning Permission Advice You Need To Follow

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 13:19:04 GMT

Whether it’s building a new home or simply getting an addition to your existing property, you’ll need to get planning permission before any work’s carried out. If you don’t, it could lead to a dispute, with this even being with your neighbours. This planning permission helps with dispute resolution, as well as being legally mandatory.

Getting this can be a complicated process, and anyone inexperienced in it could need some planning permission advice. Even some construction dispute consultants could be needed. To avoid as many problems as possible, it’s worth keeping a few things in mind.

Of course, the best form of dispute resolution is to avoid any conflict of interest in the first place. By following these simple pieces of advice, you can be sure you’re taking the necessary steps to avoid disagreements.

Get Pre-Planning Tips

Speaking with your local authority could give you all the planning permission advice you need for your specific circumstances. They can give you accurate information about what you can and can’t do in your area.

By tailoring your design and other factors to this advice, you’ll be much more likely to have your planning permission approved. It lets you make sure you don’t make any mistakes during the process.

Think About The Design

It’s not uncommon for planning permission to be denied if the design doesn’t fit in with the local community’s aesthetics. You’ll need to keep this in mind when you’re coming up with the design. While you’ll be designing it for you, you’ll have to keep specific restrictions and other factors into account.

By focusing on these from the start, you’ll avoid any potential issues in the future. You’ll be more likely to have the planning permission approved from the start.

Chat To Neighbours

It’s always worth speaking with your neighbours before you get any work done, regardless of whether the extensions or work will affect them and their property. Talking to them about what you’re getting done and how you’ll limit the implications for them helps the process more than you’d think.

At a minimum, it should avoid any complaints and the need for dispute resolution. It also shows them you’re open and willing to talk about any issues if they arise. It’s best to get this done as early as possible in the process, preferably before the work starts.

Wrapping Up

Nobody wants to hire construction dispute consultants, because it means having some disputes in the first place. Since these can affect whether you’re able to build or extend your home - or get any other work done - it’s something you’d want to avoid.

With the right planning permission advice, you’ll avoid the need for any dispute resolution. At Simon Levy Associates, we’re here to prevent the stress and hassle involved in all of that. We’ll not only help address any issues, but make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.

Get in touch with us on 020 8207 6100 or info@simonlevy.net , and we’ll be more than happy to discuss your case.

What Do Party Wall Surveyors Do? A Quick Guide

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 12:35:37 GMT

Anyone whose home is physically connected to another property can often run into issues at some point or another. That usually focuses on the connected parts of the houses, known as the party wall. In these cases, you may require some party wall advice or the help of a party wall surveyor.

If you’re unfamiliar with the professionals, you may be wondering what it is they actually do. However, it is worth familiarising yourself with the services offered by building surveyors, as they can prove incredibly helpful.

Here’s our guide to party wall surveyors and the services they offer.

What Is A Party Wall Surveyor?

In short, a party wall surveyor is a qualified professional that helps resolve construction and similar disputes between neighbours who share a wall. As well as providing party wall services, they’ll provide advice about what can be done to resolve the dispute. Think of them as an independent third party that helps fix any disputes.

The key to this is making sure they’re a truly independent third party. They can’t be either of the persons having the work done or even a close friend or family member. They’ll also need to be experienced in giving party wall advice and carrying out any necessary services.

Certification from the Institute of Party Wall Surveyors is also essential for this, so make sure to look for it when choosing a qualified surveyor.

Awarding A Party Wall Surveyor

When there are any party wall disputes, you and your neighbour will need to decide on the right party wall surveyor for your needs. Take the time to compare options and decide on the most appropriate option. Once you’ve agreed on this, you’ll need to draw up the Award.

This is an agreement that helps resolve the dispute. You can also ask the surveyor you’re hiring to draw up this agreement for you to make it easier. Since it’s a legally binding agreement, it could be worth letting a professional look after it. It’ll include:

● Work that’ll be carried out

● The current condition of the wall

● How and when work will be done

● Access provisions for the surveyor

● Any additional work

It’s worth noting that, if your neighbour doesn’t agree with the Award, you can have it appealed within 14 days. It’ll still be possible to get the work carried out.

Party Wall Services For You

Whether you’re looking for some party wall advice or specialist party wall services, you’ll need to hire the right option for you. A qualified party wall surveyor is something you should put time and effort into finding.

You’ll not only get appropriate advice, but also the right services for your specific needs. At Simon Levy Associates, we’re certified and chartered building surveyors with a wealth of experience. No matter the issue or dispute, we know we can help you.

There shouldn’t be anything stopping you from resolving the problem quickly and easily.

Get in touch with us on 020 8207 6100 or send an email to info@simonlevy.net to discover the ways in which we can help you.

The Ultimate Guide to Party Wall Agreements

Tue, 18 Oct 2022 12:09:54 GMT

If you are planning to have building work done on your property that affects or is within a certain distance of a boundary line between your property and your neighbour’s, then you will most likely need a party wall agreement.

It is not always easy to know when you may need a party wall agreement, and some people may not even realise that it is a legal requirement which must be followed. This is especially forgotten or unknown when your building plans don’t directly impact a shared wall.

These documents, and the process of acquiring one, can be complex to wrap your head around, which is why we have put together this ultimate guide to teach you all you need to know about party wall agreements, answering any burning questions you may have.

What is a Party Wall Agreement?

A party wall agreement is a document that, legally, you must procure if you are planning on having construction work carried out on or within 3 metres of a party wall - the boundary between one or more properties. This is in keeping with the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 .

It is intended to inform your applicable neighbour(s) of how their property will or may be affected by such plans, making disputes over boundaries less likely.

How Do I Know That I Need One?

As previously stated, a party wall agreement is needed if you will be building on or near a boundary wall between your property and a neighbouring property (there are some other instances when you will also need one, which we will go on to explain).

A boundary wall is quite literally the wall that separates your house from your neighbours; so, if you live in a semi-detached or a terraced house, then you will have a boundary wall. Likewise, if you live in a flat, you will have boundary walls between your flat and your neighbouring flats, but also with those who live above and/or below you.

If you live in a detached property, this does not guarantee that you do not have a boundary wall either; property can also count as exterior structures, such as garden walls (however garden fences do not count).

Working on a Boundary

If you are carrying out minor interior work to a boundary wall, such as drilling, putting up shelves, or rewiring, then you will not need an agreement. It is if you affect or have the potential to affect your neighbour’s property, as a result of the work you have done to the boundary wall, in which you will need a party wall agreement.

This will include any structural work that changes the boundary wall in any way, such as increasing, decreasing, thickening, raising, repairing or damp proofing it.

Common house-build projects that tend to do this include:

● Extensions

● Loft Conversions

● Chimney Instalment or Removal

Working Near a Boundary

You may have noticed that we mentioned how a party wall agreement is necessary if you are completing work within 3 metres of a party wall. The reason for this is because it tends to refer to work you may have done that could possibly affect the foundations of your neighbours property.

For example, if you are having excavation work carried out (such as if you’re planning on installing a basement to your property) within 3 metres of any boundary structure and will be digging lower than the lowest point of any part of the foundations of the adjoining property, then you will need an agreement.

This doesn’t just refer to their main building, but any other structural property on their land, such as a garage or an annex - these counting as external party walls.

The reason a party wall agreement is needed here is because, although you may not directly be impacting a boundary structure, there is a possibility that such work poses a risk to the neighbouring property’s foundations.

There are some other, lesser known instances where a party wall agreement is also needed. One of these is if you plan to build a boundary wall or structure where there was not one before. The other is when you are planning to have work done and the adjoining owner of a property has sold their house; a party wall agreement must be given to the new adjoining owner, even if they have yet to move in.

So, What Do I Do Next?

Once you’ve concluded that you need a party wall agreement, it’s time to draw one up and pass it on to your neighbour.

We advise that you discuss with your neighbour in person first any construction work you plan to carry out that will affect the boundary wall. This way, you will know where they stand before an agreement is procured, making the process of having a party wall agreement signed easier, as well as making it less likely that you will be blindsided if they do not consent to your proposed agreement.

Even if you do speak with them beforehand and they offer their verbal consent, a party wall agreement is still needed to ensure legal, written consent has been given to avoid any disputes later down the line.

After you have a party wall agreement drawn up, you are known as the building owner and the neighbour on the opposite side of the boundary line in question is known as the adjoining owner. You must list all the work you plan to carry out and if and how this may affect the adjoining owner’s property, then hand them the notice within 2 months of when you plan to begin construction.

The adjoining owner will have 14 days to respond, either consenting, refusing or proposing a counter offer to the agreement. In case of the latter, you will then have 14 days to respond to their counter offer, and so on and so forth until an agreement is consented or dissented.

What if My Neighbour Refuses to Sign?

It can happen that the adjoining owner does not consent to the intended work and therefore does not sign the party wall agreement. This does not mean that you will have to forego your building plans all together, instead you will enter the dispute resolution process.

The dispute resolution process requires a party wall surveyor to assess the proposed building work, the boundary wall in question and the extent to which the adjoining owner’s property will or may be affected (you and your neighbour may appoint a surveyor together, or you may each appoint your own, in which the two will work together). From this, they will provide you with a party wall award.

A party wall award is a legal document which will state the following:

● What work needs to be carried out

● How and when this work will be done

● How much the work will cost and who will pay for what (including surveyor’s fees)

It is worth noting that if you are the building owner, it is likely that you will have to pay the majority if not all of the costs, since you are the one proposing the work. Unless reparation is required, in which case the costs will likely fall to both parties.

As soon as a party wall award has been provided, construction can go ahead (as long as it adheres to the work stated in the award).

Party Wall Advice

It is a good idea to enlist the help of a party wall surveyor if you plan to build or amend a party wall, even before you give a party wall notice.

You must acknowledge the impact your proposed changes could have on the adjoining owner’s property, since it could negatively affect their property value, quality or dimensions. A qualified party wall surveyor will provide you with expert advice on whether your building work is feasible and how best to alter it should it not be.

By being correctly informed from the start, you are less likely to face issues, such as a refused party wall agreement or disputes, later on, making the process as smooth as possible for you.

They can also offer assistance in other party wall matters , such as determining boundaries between disputing parties.

Party Wall Services Borehamwood

Do you live in the South-East and need a reliable party wall surveyor? Simon Levy Associates are the chartered building surveyors you need.

Our surveyors are capable of helping you with your party wall related matters, representing you whether you are the building owner or the adjoining owner. We will offer efficient service and impartial advice on your legal rights as a property owner, updating you on the progress of your issue every step of the way.

If you require the services of a surveyor, contact us today. We provide both residential and commercial surveying services in Borehamwood and throughout other areas in the South-East.

How Can You Find Out If There Is Asbestos In Your Home?

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 09:43:59 GMT

We’re sure that you have heard of asbestos before. It is a substance that was used in building houses in the 1900’s, but has since been banned as it was proven that it could cause some kinds of cancer. As such, all buildings with this material had to cease, but the homes that already had this in them were left as they are. As such, there are still some homes today that will have this in them, and it’s important to have this knowledge as you may want to have it removed.

In this article, we’re going to be taking a look at how you can find out if there is asbestos in your home, so keep reading if you would like to find out more.

Your Home Is Older

First, if your home is older and was built before around 2000, then there is a chance that there is asbestos used somewhere in the home. The use of asbestos was actually banned in 1985, but there are still homes from a few years later where it was still used. As such, if your home was built a long time ago then you should consider getting it checked for asbestos. Undisturbed asbestos is not usually dangerous, but that doesn’t mean that it can’t be.

Cement Water Tanks And Sheets

Older cement water tanks often contain asbestos. If you have one of these in your home, you need to get your water tank tested as soon as you can. As well as this, cement sheets are likely to contain asbestos if they were put in before 1986. The surrounding areas likely have asbestos in them if the cement sheets do, so it’s worth taking a look at. The last thing that you want is to get ill because of the material that was used to build your home.

Call a Professional

If you think that there might be asbestos in your home, or you are concerned that this could be the case, then we recommend you call in a professional. This is the only way that you are going to know for sure whether or not asbestos is present in the property. If it is, then there are services that are able to remove that for you, something you should never do on your own. Asbestos can be dangerous, especially when it is disturbed, so make sure you are leaving this job to the people who are trained to do so.

When you purchase a house, asbestos should come up on the survey if it is present, but if you didn’t get one, then you would never know. We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the ways that you can find out if there is asbestos in your home. If there is, then you might go down the path of choosing to remove it to avoid the potential that it can harm you. Never try to remove asbestos yourself if you are not correctly trained in how to do this safely. Hire one of our professional surveyors at Simon Levy who can assess a home’s true condition and offer expert advice that could save you lots of money.

Is Property Surveying the Right Career For You?

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 09:32:05 GMT

Have you been thinking about taking up a career in property surveying? If the answer is yes, then you need to know what to expect, and what kind of person the industry needs. It’s difficult to explain exactly what makes a good surveyor, but in this article we’re going to look at some of the key things you need in order to succeed here. We’re also going to look at why it can be a fantastic career choice, so keep reading if you would like to find out more.

Valued On The Market

The first thing that you need to know about being a surveyor is that it is a valued profession. People are always going to be buying property, so you are always going to be needed in one capacity or another. As such, it is a very valued profession, and can rake in quite a lot of money the higher you climb up the corporate ladder.

Surveying is never short in demand. There is always going to be someone who needs your services whether this is for their business or for purchasing a residential property. This is one of the few industries where your job is relatively secure.

You Have A Keen Eye For Detail

You are going to need to have a keen eye for detail if you are going to make it as a surveyor. Surveyors need to be able to notice the tiniest of things that other people would glance over and not think twice about. Sometimes, the truth about a property is hidden in the smaller details, which is why you need to be able to notice them. It’s important that when you are looking around the property, you are looking at everything. Make a note of the more obvious issues or potential issues, as well as the ones that others would easily miss. You have to see what others cannot see if you want to succeed here.

You Want To Help People

Property surveying might be the right career for you if you want to help people. We know that people typically think of doctors or nurses when it comes to helping people, but surveying is important too. Surveying is the difference between someone paying a lot of money for a home that is not worth it due to structural issues, and other things that need to be fixed, and not. As such, surveyors help people to make the right choices when it comes to purchasing property, saving people a fortune in some cases.

Hopefully, you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the things that you should be considering if you are hoping to pursue a career in property surveying. The last thing that you need is to spend your time training for something that it turns out isn’t for you, but if it is, then it’s a fantastic career choice. We wish you the very best of luck, and hope that you make the choice that suits you the best.

For expert chartered building surveyors in Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London, Simon Levy is your number one choice.

What Should You Consider When Hiring A Surveyor?

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 09:09:19 GMT

If you are going to be hiring a surveyor, then you need to take your time choosing the right one. The last thing that you need is to choose someone who doesn’t do the job to a satisfactory standard, or someone who shows up and doesn’t seem to care about what they are doing. Down below, we’re going to be taking a look at what you should be considering when hiring a surveyor, so keep reading if you would like to find out more.

Level Of Experience

The first thing that you should look at is their level of experience . You want a surveyor who knows what they are doing, and this means having experience in the industry. That is not to say that newer companies don’t know what they are doing, but it’s more assuring to have someone who has a proven track record, especially if you are worried about the property. Most companies will have how long they have been operating in the business posted on their website, and they will usually also post any accreditation that they have received so that potential clients can see. Look for this, because if it’s not there, then this is a red flag. Try to remember that surveying is a super broad field, and that two surveyors can have completely different levels of experience in two completely different areas. It’s not to say that either is better than the other, just different, specialising in a different area.

Attitude And Reviews

You should also be looking at reviews of the company and seeing what they say. A lot of companies offer fantastic things, but when it comes down to it, they do not deliver. You do not want to be stuck with a company like this, which means research into previous work has got to be completed. When looking at reviews, make sure that you are looking at things like customer service, communication, and the overall result. If anything doesn’t seem right, then you need to move on and look at another company.

Insurance

The final thing that we’re going to mention is that every reputable surveyor will have insurance. We recommend looking for a RICS accredited chartered surveyor because they are all required to have a high standard of Professional Indemnity Insurance . You should feel free to ask the firm about their policy, what it covers and what it doesn’t, as well as other questions to ensure that you have the information you need to trust these professionals.

We hope that you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the things that you should consider when hiring a surveyor. You need to ensure that you are choosing the right person or company for your specific needs and this means that you have got to do a fair amount of research. Don’t rush choosing your surveyor, because it’s an important decision that will have consequences that last beyond the time that they are providing their service to your property. For the best local chartered surveyor building surveyors in Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London, look no further than Simon Levy ! With a team of skilled surveyor experts, we can easily identify any problems with your residential or commercial property.

Get in touch with a member of our friendly team here today to find out more.

What Should You Look For When Purchasing A New Home?

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 09:01:40 GMT

When you are purchasing a new home, you need to make sure that you are looking at all of the different elements that make up a home. Of course, you’re going to have professionals in to ensure that you are getting the right home and that there is nothing wrong with it, but other than this the decision is yours. When you first look at a house you should be looking for multiple things that will set off alarm bells. In this article, we’re going to be taking a look at what some of these things are, so keep reading if you would like to find out more.

Visible Structural Issues

The first thing that you are going to need to do is look for any visible structure issues. If the walls seem as though they are bulging or leaning, this is one of the easiest ways to tell that there could be structural damage in the house. The most common sign of structural damage to the untrained eye though is going to be cracks. Cracks can sometimes be a bad sign , and you should always be wary if you see them around. Uneven floors, sticking windows, sticking doors and so much more. These are all signs that there might be some kind of structural damage with the house. Just make a note of this for now, and you will know more when a professional gets there.

Damp And Other Concerns

Damp is something that you should be looking for. Damp and mould are not pleasant to experience, and if you do see that there is any in the home, this could be a sign that the property is not well taken care of. There is obviously somewhere that the damp is coming from, and it’s likely something that hasn’t been fixed but should have been. Other concerns include things like damage to certain parts of the home. The roof is one of the most important parts of the property, so before you purchase a home this needs to be checked.

Let The Professionals Take A Look

The final thing that we’re going to recommend is calling in the professionals to take a look. A surveyor will be able to go through the property, let you know where any and all problems are, as well as what is good about the property. You will get all of the information that you need, helping you to make an informed decision about whether you’re going to purchase or not. Ensure that the surveyor you choose is reliable and has the correct level of experience because this is an important decision for you!

Hopefully, you have found this article helpful, and now see some of the things that you should look for when you are purchasing a new home. It’s about more than looking at the amount of space available and potential design choices, though this is important too. You need to be looking at the house as a whole, and that includes some of the more practical things. We wish you the very best of luck. For the leading chartered building surveyors in Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London, Simon Levy is your number one choice.

The Most Important Experts You Will Need When Building A New Home

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 08:36:57 GMT

It’s fair to say that building a new home can be a stressful experience. There is a huge amount of time and money at stake, and there are a lot of different things that can go wrong. Fortunately, there are ways of minimising the likelihood that you will encounter any bumps on the road when you are building your own home, and one of the most effective methods that you can explore involves hiring a range of the most trustworthy experts that know exactly what they are doing. You need to be able to rely on the tradesmen that you use for your new home build, as they are the ones who are working to turn your dreams into a reality, and it’s vital that they can succeed rather than fail miserably.

Thankfully, figuring out what experts you’re going to need on hand when you are building your own home doesn’t have to be as difficult as you might imagine, as this guide contains a list of some of the most important tradesmen that you need to seek out in order to create your dream home successfully. So, if you would like to learn more to start your build with total peace of mind, then simply read on to discover more.

An Amazing Architect

First off, one of the most essential tradesmen that you’re going to need if you want to stand any chance of achieving success when you are building your new home is an amazing architect. Architects are some of the most highly skilled and professionally trained tradesmen around, and they exist to turn your wildest home aspirations into a reality. An architect will guide you through every detail of your unique design, as well as keep you in the loop throughout the planning and construction process to make sure your new home will look as you had initially hoped it would. Architects also offer impartial creative thinking to your home build project, and can subsequently help you to add value and functionality to your build so that you can finish with a brilliant home that can offer the best return on your investment.

Without an expert architect's knowledge, you risk creating a weak and poorly designed home that is both dysfunctional and dangerous, so you need to make sure that you can seek out a reputable architect who boasts an excellent portfolio. Always ask for a portfolio of past works whenever you are assessing an architect for your home build, as you need to be able to witness examples of their design and planning skills in action. Any good architect should have a number of reviews or ratings online too, so this may also be something you consider looking out for so that you can have the greatest faith in the person or team that you choose.

A Team Of Builders

Next up, you’re going to need a team of expert builders to support your architect in turning their designs into a real home, and it’s vital that you can source certified, qualified and fully trained builders who know exactly what they are doing. Unfortunately, it’s all too common for under-skilled builders to access a large variety of projects due to their lower price tag, but all you’re going to be left with is an uninhabitable site and a huge dent in your budget. These bad tradesmen are so common that they actually have their own name, ‘cowboy builders’, so you need to take steps to ensure you can avoid these cowboy builders for the sake of your future home. The builders that you choose for your project will be the ones who create the main structure of your home, and this subsequently needs to be as strong and sturdy as can be. Internal walls need to be able to withstand the weight of the floors above, while quality insulation needs to be installed properly inside watertight walls so that you and your family can stay warm in the winter.

Any good builder will know that the tiniest of problems like a 1-centimetre gap between external bricks could lead to serious issues including permanent structural damage, so you need to be certain that your builders are getting things right the first time. You are totally within your rights to request to see proof of any relevant building qualifications before you hire a team to take on your project, as they should be more than happy to present you with their certificates and evidence of official training. Another key aspect of a good team of builders that you need to look out for is full coverage insurance, as they are responsible for sourcing sufficient insurance to protect themselves and their equipment when they are on your site. If they do not have the right insurance then you risk being involved in a construction dispute, in which case you would need a legal professional to aid you in avoiding extortionate fees and a total stalling in your home build. If ever you get involved in any kind of construction dispute, whether it’s with a team of cowboy builders or with builders who lack the right insurance, then always take the opportunity to seek out trusted construction dispute consultants that can take on your case and make sure you benefit from the best possible outcome.

Great Plumbers & Certified Electricians

Great plumbers and certified electricians are both vital for your home construction project, as you won’t be able to access any utilities without these experts on hand to help you achieve your goal. A plumber is essential when you need to complete the task of installing pipework, showers and baths, sinks and taps, boilers and heating systems and more, so it’s clear to see why you need to find a great plumber. It’s fair to say that it’s not always cheap to find a good plumber but you do get what you pay for, so don’t make the mistake of trying to save money by hiring a cheap plumber who lacks sufficient experience or talent to ensure your new home has the safest, highest quality plumbing. An electrician is also essential for your build, as you should never make the potentially life-threatening mistake of attempting to do your own electrical work.

A good electrician will have years of training under their belt, and will know exactly how to complete a long list of electrical tasks safely as a result, so you need to allow them to take over if you want to live to see another day! Again it’s always recommended that you can ask for proof of their qualifications before you hire them for your project, as the dangers of bodged electrical work are serious and could put you and your family in harm's way. It’s a good idea to involve your plumber and electrician right from the get-go so that they can figure out exactly when they need to step in and perform relevant works during construction, as they may need to get involved at different stages of the process rather than right at the end when your full structure has already been built.

An Insurance Professional

As mentioned previously, there are a number of things that could go wrong during the construction of your new home. Whether this is due to a mistake made by a tradesmen on site, or even something that was totally out of your control such as a flood or fire, you need to be able to have peace of mind that you aren’t going to lose out financially as a result of whatever has gone wrong. Having a trusted insurance professional on your side will certainly help you to rest easy when you’re building your own home, as they will be able to navigate any kind of claim in the most effective way should you ever need to seek compensation if something bad happens. You could fall victim to cowboy builders who take your cash but don’t complete the work you had agreed on, or you might even encounter a natural disaster such as an earthquake that causes severe damage to your new home's structure. As long as you have an expert on hand to aid you in making a successful insurance claim, then you can get back on track in the fastest possible time without having to deal with mountains of paperwork.

It’s clear to see that you’re going to need a variety of different experts on hand when you start the exciting and nerve-wracking process of building your own home. Thankfully reaching out to the experts described in this guide will help your project to run as smoothly as possible, so there’s no time like the present to find some reputable tradesmen and professional legal teams to turn your home dreams into a reality. If you need help with an insurance claim related to your build or have a construction dispute that needs solving, then get in touch with Simon Levy Associates on 020 8207 6100 so that you can benefit from the best results.

How To Spot False Charges Following Construction Work

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 12:29:09 GMT

When construction work is being carried out within your property, the chances are that you have hired a contractor or team who you believe to be trustworthy. Whether removing a wall from your garden space, helping with a household extension, or replacing brickwork, there are likely plenty of reputable tradespeople within your locality. Despite the reputation of your hired builders, there’s always a chance that they may be disingenuous - and this is where Simon Levy Associates can help out. Read on for some of the tell-tale signs that your contractors may be applying false charges to the bill for your work, and account for our useful tips if you do suspect this to be the case.

Inflated Rates And Unperformed Work

If you have outright hired a contractor to carry out specific tasks for you which they agreed upon, you will have appropriate grounds to raise an issue if they fail to fulfill those stipulations following payment. Often unperformed work will include minor details or features which are hardly noticeable, but even if your hired professional has attempted to cut corners, they still may be breaching a contract. On the other hand, if a builder or team of contractors have increased their rates for work you didn’t ask for, or additions you never requested, you may not be legally required to pay for it. If you are being charged a premium for a service you agreed a price on, and this is verified in writing, you will almost certainly not be legally required to pay extra.

Noticeable Issues

Not only will unwanted additions or inflated rates give you cause for concern, but work which has not been completed to a satisfactory standard may also require the help of an experienced building surveying company. Noticeable problems may include a poor finish to brickwork, or rushed and uneven tiling. Simon Levy Associates are qualified to undertake the necessary examination of a building structure, using specialist surveying equipment and a breadth of knowledge. As practicing members of the Academy of Experts since 1996, we can even be commissioned as expert witnesses for construction dispute resolution.

Equipment Or Materials

Another way in which contractors may attempt to exhibit false charges, is by charging for equipment or materials which aren’t used, despite being listed within their costs. It can be difficult to determine whether this has been the case if you aren’t at the site 24/7, but we can use our industry nause to help out. Our construction dispute consultants can potentially save you time and money, condensing the often-lengthy legal process, and sharing honest, transparent feedback. Searching for ‘surveyors Barnet’? Simon Levy Associates are a highly competent and experienced building surveying company, based in Borehamwood and serving the surrounding area. Over three decades of experience places us among the longest-serving professionals within the vicinity, and our impartial advice has helped hundreds of customers over the years. Contact us today for further information on our varied services, available in locations as varied as in Barnet, Watford and South East England.

Shoddy Building Work? Enlist Construction Dispute Consultants

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 12:00:21 GMT

Unsatisfactory building work can quickly turn your dream home into an absolute disaster, with uneven brickwork, decorative issues, and poorly installed insulation all common. If you’ve been anticipating your big move into a new build home, or a household renovation has been poorly executed by tradesmen, you may benefit from the assistance of a building surveying company. Experienced at assessing and diagnosing building problems, consultants at Simon Levy Associates can be trusted to act as expert witnesses, diagnose building defects, and generally assist with taking action against unreliable or unhelpful contractors. Consult our practical guide below, and discover how our specialist construction dispute consultants can benefit you.

Poor Workmanship

New build homes are rarely without fault, and with poor workmanship and unfulfilled expectations a common cause of dispute between customer and contractor, you may be considering action against an organisation you entrusted. Poor workmanship can sometimes be seen by the untrained eye from a distance, while other building defects may be noticeable to only you, though still as significant. Regardless of the context, we excel at identifying issues and detailing them, be it for an insurance claim pertaining to property damage, or as part of a structural survey. Covering Borehamwood, Hertfordshire and all of Greater London, browse our services for additional details

Defects Diagnosed

Recurring issues and prominent complications within the four walls of your home may be a circumstance of underlying defects, with mould propagation, bulged or distorted walls, and patches of damp not uncommon to see within poorly insulated or hastily built properties. Able to distribute a comprehensive appraised report to you, we can even further recommend contractors from our list of approved local companies, formulating a schedule, and overseeing the consequent repairs on your behalf.

Save Time And Money

By enlisting the help of a building surveying company while in the midst of conflict or legal action against contractors, you’re placing your situation in the hands of a highly-qualified and enthusiastic team. Instead of trawling through legal jargon and researching complicated loopholes by yourself, opt for us, and see why we’re recognised by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, and The Academy of Experts. Pursuing a legal claim is hardly cheap if you don’t end up with the outcome you were looking for, therefore the team at Simon Levy can save you money by assessing circumstances , advising you on your options and setting realistic expectations.

Accredited Building Dispute Advisors

With a range of surveying services, plenty of experience serving local clients, and a team made up of experienced professionals. Simon Levy Associates are the reliable expert to trust when you’re unhappy with a construction job. Active in Barnet, Watford and other prominent locations within South East England., we’re always happy to offer tailored advice, regardless of your situation. Nobody deserves to suffer with property damage or a poor job, so contact our construction dispute consultants today for further information

Why Do I Need A Dilapidation Survey?

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:58:34 GMT

A dilapidation survey is an essential service carried out by professional surveyors to assess the current condition of a property, building construction, development and more, in order to provide essential evidence in the event of a dispute. We provide a helpful guide, outlining key reasons why dilapidation surveys can prove vital in the future.

Why Do I Need A Dilapidation Survey?

There are several important reasons why employing a professional from Simon Levy Associates to conduct a dilapidation survey can prove vital in protecting you against unfair claims and expensive litigation cases. Below, we outline the key reasons how a dilapidation survey can help you:

Precaution

As a dilapidation survey is designed to outline the exact conditions of a property in its current form, including any existing structural damage such as cracks, wear and tear, water damage to flooring, ceilings, walls and much more, it can provide a vital means of evidence in the event of a dispute. Entirely independent, and holding no bias toward either party, (tenant or landlord), a dilapidation survey will simply provide the necessary information and evidence required to determine causation and fault. Should there be a dispute in future, you can simply refer to your pre-recorded, highly detailed, photographic, video and written evidence captured during the survey, to assist in your particular claim.

Knowledge

As suggested, carrying out a dilapidation survey will provide you with an exact, and highly detailed assessment of the property in its current condition, thus providing you with all the information and knowledge you require to understand the conditions of the structure prior to a potential construction. Through the conduction of a dilapidation survey, you can assess adjoining structures, minimise movement vibrations, water overflow and loose site debris, and help to ensure construction sites are restored to their original state in the aftermath of construction.

Protection

If you’re a professional contractor or developer, carrying out a dilapidation survey on an existing property will offer you protection in the event damage claims are made. It’s common for contractors and developers to face blame for damages sustained to a third party or adjoining property, often without fault, meaning a dilapidation survey is vital in protecting you from liability. Conduction of a dilapidation survey means you will have evidence of the condition of their property as evidence in the event of damages, helping you to defend your argument and avoid expensive litigation in the future. Had an issue with a dilapidation dispute in Borehamwood? At Simon Levy Associates , we can assist both landlords and tenants in such matters, offering dilapidation surveys to determine the cause and potential fault of a particular issue. If you believe your landlord has wronged you, from dented walls to broken taps contact our expert dilapidation surveys today.

6 Things to Consider Before You Buy Leasehold Property

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:45:09 GMT

Buying property is a big commitment and comes with a certain level of risk, particularly when buying a leasehold property. However, it is a popular form of ownership for homebuyers and investors. In England, leasehold property takes up a fifth of the housing market, which equates to 4.6 million homes, with London holding the highest number of leasehold homes at 32%. Leasehold ownership has received some bad press recently due to the ground rent scandal. However, due to government action, as of the 30th of June 2022, ground rent charges are banned on new residential leases in England and Wales. If you’re considering buying a leasehold property, you need to understand what this means and make sure you make an informed decision. At Simon Levy, we have a team of experts with a wealth of surveying experience to help you with your business ventures.

What is a leasehold property?

When you buy property, you are either buying it as a freehold or a leasehold. Freehold means that you own both the property and the land it sits on, whereas leasehold means you own the right to occupy the property for a certain amount of time, but the landlord still owns the land and the property. So a leasehold purchase means you are buying a lease from the freeholder for the right to live in the property. You’ll find this often with flats and apartments, where the property is part of a larger building. Houses are much more clear-cut as you typically always buy the house with the piece of land it sits on. There have been issues with new builds where this hasn’t been the case, and this has led to leaseholds being controversial.

Read on to learn about the 7 things you need to consider before buying a leasehold property.

How many years are left on the lease?

This is the first thing you will need to find out when researching a leasehold. The duration left on the leasehold will be directly proportional to the value of the property. Once the lease has run out, the ownership returns to the freeholder. This rarely happens, but it’s important to be aware of. Search for properties that have at least 90 years remaining on the lease. If there are less than 80 years left, it can impact your chances of getting a mortgage as well as make it harder to sell the property further down the line. You will have the chance to extend the lease, however, this will be very expensive if you have less than 80 years remaining. Make sure only to shortlist properties with more than 90 years or ensure there is an arrangement in place to extend if you want to.

How easy will it be to extend?

This leads us to our next point. How easy will it be to extend your lease? The law states that you have the right to extend your lease by up to 90 years. To do this, you have to have owned the property for at least 2 years, although your property may be exempt from these statutory obligations. Before you sign the contract, you will need to be 100% sure on what your contract entails and whether you are able to extend the lease at all. If you do choose to extend the lease it will be a long process. You may have to deal with difficult freeholders, delays and not agreeing on the premium to be paid. You do have the safety net of the set statutory process that needs to be followed which you can then take to a tribunal if needed. Overall, you need to be aware that this process can be lengthy and difficult.

Make sure to find an experienced lease extension surveyor to help you through the process.

Other costs to consider

When buying a leasehold property, you may be subject to other costs such as an annual service charge. This means that the day-to-day costs of running the building or keeping up the gardens or surrounding grounds are subsidised by the tenants of the leasehold properties. Each flat or apartment will be required to pay for general maintenance including stairwells, lobbies, hallways and roofs. There isn’t a limit on how much a service charge could be so it’s important to find out how much it is for the building you plan to buy a lease for. You should also compare this to others to see if it is in line with the average. It is generally good practice for a landlord to use annual payments towards a reserve or sinking fund. This helps protect you against sudden necessary payments for things like water damage or heating installations.

Check the condition of the property

Just as you would when you buy any property, it’s vital that you hire a professional to complete a property or building survey. This needs to be carried out by an independent surveyor so that you are able to receive an unbiased report on the condition of the leasehold property. It will let you know of any repairs that need to be completed and whether it is up to building standards. At Simon Levy, we offer full building and structural surveys so that you can have peace of mind. We specialise in property surveys in Barnet, Borehamwood and Watford. Our team of professionals will fully appraise the situation before you purchase - which is important as many mortgage companies do not carry out full building surveys. We have over 30 years of experience providing property surveys in Barnet and beyond.

Do you need freeholder permissions?

Some leases may refrain you from doing certain things to your property. It’s important to clarify what permissions you have and what this means you can and can’t do. For example, if you plan to buy a leasehold property with the intent of renovating it. You need to check your lease first to see what you can and can’t do. If you wish to make any alterations, you need to obtain a licence to Alter from the freeholder. You might also need planning permission from your local authority. You will have to pay a fee to the landlord and take on any legal and surveyors fees incurred by the freeholder, which may not be financially viable for most leaseholders. In this case, you’ll want to do plenty of research beforehand and check the numbers to see if it is possible before putting an offer down.

Do you plan to let the property?

Depending on your intentions with the property, you may need to check the contract to determine whether there are any restrictions on what you plan to do. For example, if you are making a buy-to-let investment, you should be particularly careful with any subletting clauses in the lease. It will tell you whether they are permitted and if there are any restrictions. For example, you may not be able to let it as a holiday home or pets may not be allowed. This could impact your market opportunities so should be taken into consideration. As well, gross leasehold yields should be discounted by 20% in comparison to freehold yields.

Simon Levy - Your Local Property Surveyors in Barton, Borehamwood and Watford

Are you in need of a quality building surveyor? Look no further than Simon Levy, we conduct full building and structural surveys for properties in Barton, Borehamwood and Watford. Get in touch with our friendly team today to see how we can help you. Whether buying a freehold or leasehold property, it’s vital you take the necessary precautions before making your investment. To learn more, visit our website .

Tips For A Successful Property Damage Claim

Thu, 18 Aug 2022 11:42:45 GMT

Home insurance is essential in protecting you against the financial risk of property damage, particularly in the event of flooding, fire damage or structural degradation, proving to be a highly important investment for homeowners and businesses across the country. It can, however, be a stressful time; here at Simon Levy , we understand how difficult it can be to handle insurance claims at such a difficult and emotional time.

Here, we provide helpful tips for making a successful property damage claim, as well as pointing you in the right direction of our own team, to assist you in any way we can.

Preparation

Unless you have access to a crystal ball, chances are, you don’t have the capacity to see into the future. This means that, no matter how hard you try, it’s going to be nigh on impossible to predict the exact moment in which you’ll need to make an insurance claim on your property. Fortunately, however, there are a number of important ways in which you can prepare yourself for an insurance claim, to provide the necessary evidence and information required to substantiate your claim in the future.

Preparation should include the gathering of evidence, to provide photographic proof of the current state of your existing property, but should also include maintenance, and documentation to prove it. This will help make clear to insurance companies that any damage sustained to your property was not a result of negligence or mistreatment. Insurance claims are often refused if this is seen to be the case, particularly in the event of fire or flood damage, where there is clear evidence of improper maintenance or care.

Communication

Although it may differ, insurance companies typically allow a timeframe of up to 180 days for you to make an insurance claim as a result of property damage, although it’s, of course, advised to inform them of any issues at the earliest opportunity.

Communicating with your home insurance provider quickly is highly important when handling your claim, especially in the event of a flood or fire, delaying an insurance claim here will likely lead to even worse damage. Insurance companies will help you get back on your feet, handle the claim and relocate you during maintenance works, if necessary, so be sure to liaise with them at the earliest convenience.

Evidence

As suggested, taking photographs of your property can be used as an important preparation tool, but it can also prove vital as a form of evidence. Taking photographs, or making a short video of your property damage, will be highly useful for insurance companies to determine what has happened, helping to outline the cause of the issue and potentially offer evidence to who may be liable.

Equally, we strongly advise you don’t throw away any damaged items you may now have as a result of property damage, as insurance companies often want to assess your losses and analyse your home contents.

Need to make a property damage insurance claim ? At Simon Levy Associates , we can assist in building insurance claims on properties in Borehamwood, Barnet or Watford. Our professional team assists you in liaising with the insurance company and helps to specify the appropriate scope and quality of repair work to be carried out, ensuring that any and all work is administered, overseen and certified. Contact us today.

5 Common Defects In Older Properties

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 10:01:41 GMT

The process of buying a new property is usually just as exciting as it is overwhelming. With what feels like a million things to consider, making a decision regarding the purchase of a new home is a big commitment.

What’s more, if you’ve got your eye on an older property, there may be a few extra considerations to take into account. Of course, it is a great idea to invest in older buildings with the hope of renovation and it is something that many people have great success with. However, it is worth bearing a few things in mind as you go about your property search to guarantee you find the best property for your needs.

Here’s our guide to common defects in older properties.

Insulation

One of the most important elements of an older property to assess is the quality of its insulation. Often, older buildings will have cavities in their walls or outdated methods of insulation that are defective by modern standards. Insulation is a crucial point to consider when purchasing a property as it determines how much work needs to be carried out. If insulation is ineffective, it will be financially inefficient, costing a lot of money to keep the house warm through colder months.

Damp

Moreover, a common defect to keep an eye out for is dampness or mould in an old home. Often caused by cracked tiles, old joints and worn window seals, dampness may seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can swiftly develop into a major issue. If left untreated, dampness can be harmful to the health of those living within a property. What’s more, older properties that have been affected by dampness are far more likely to have structural defects caused by rot and water damage.

Asbestos

One of the more serious defects present in some polder properties is asbestos within the walls and roofing. Asbestos is now understood to be a highly toxic material with links to diseases such as cancer. There is the possibility of asbestos in any building built before the 1970s and if building work is to be carried out, it will need to be removed by professionals.

Structural Weakness

As mentioned earlier, older buildings are far more susceptible to structural defects such as cracking, rotting, and subsidence. This could be caused by any number of factors such as prolonged exposure to the elements, improper laying of foundations or leaking pipes. It is always recommended that a building is surveyed for defects by a professional service before a purchase is made.

Drainage Problems

Finally, one aspect that is often overlooked is the importance of assessing the condition of a building’s drains and plumbing works. As these are usually hidden from the naked eye, it is worth using the services of an expert to evaluate their functionality and gain reassurance that they are working and safe. If you’re considering purchasing an older property or have just moved in, contact Simon Levy Associates for a thorough building defect diagnosis.

Don’t wait, get in touch with us today for a quote or to discuss your requirements in further detail. Call us on 020 8207 6100 or send an email to info@simonlevy.net

Common Causes Of Subsidence In Homes

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 09:46:37 GMT

Investing in a house or property has the potential to be an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience. Of course, purchasing a home is not a simple process and there are plenty of things to consider but, with the right knowledge and advice, it can be relatively stress-free. As with any big decision or investment, it is important to approach it with a realistic mindset. As well as knowing what it is you are looking for in a home, it is important to understand some of the negative elements that are property-hunting red flags. One of these is subsidence.

Essentially, subsidence is the term used to describe a building’s foundations sinking or crumbling away, causing the property to become structurally unstable. It is more common in older buildings however new builds are not immune to the issue.

Here is our guide to the common causes of subsidence.

Ground Shrinkage & Swelling

As mentioned briefly above, subsidence involves a building’s foundations sinking, or subsiding, into the earth below. One of the most common causes of this is actually the ground on which the home is built. Soils that are primarily formed from clay and silt experience expansion and shrinkage as their moisture content fluctuates. For example, as soil loses moisture, it is likely to shrink, having a serious effect on the structure of the land below a building. If solid shrinks or expands, the foundations upon it experience shifts which cause the property to tilt or slip away into the earth.

Poor Foundations

Another common cause of subsidence can be linked to the construction of the building’s foundations in the first place. If the building is particularly old, or the materials used are of poor quality, the footings may begin to crumble or break down. This could be due to prolonged exposure to elements such as frost and moisture or it could simply be due to the materials degrading over a long period of time.

Trees & Vegetation

Finally, trees and natural growth can have a surprisingly large effect on the structural integrity of a building due to the expansion of their roots and the subsequent drawing of moisture. As mentioned earlier, certain soil is susceptible to shrinking and expanding in relation to moisture content. When trees and plants expand their roots, they take moisture from the surrounding soil, causing it to reduce in surface area. This, in turn, causes foundations to lower and buildings to subside.

Full Structural Surveys: Simon Levy Associates

If you are considering investing in a property, it is important to employ the services of a structural surveyor to ensure that there are no major issues such as subsidence. Here at Simon Levy Associates, we take pride in providing our clients with expert advice and conducting thorough structural surveys , so you can be sure you’re making the right decision.

Get in touch with us today to arrange a survey and discuss your requirements in detail.

Call us on 020 8207 6100 or send an email to info@simonlevy.net .

What Services Do Chartered Building Surveyors Provide?

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 09:30:27 GMT

If you’ve ever purchased property or land, for residential or commercial development, it is likely you’ll have heard of chartered surveyors. Whether or not you have used their services directly, there is a strong chance that they will have been involved at some point.

When it comes to matters within the world of construction, property and land, chartered surveyors are able to provide both practical services and advice that is hugely beneficial to both builders and clients alike. However, despite their usefulness, there is often a sense of ambiguity regarding the specific services provided by such professionals. Here is our guide to a few of the many services provided by chartered surveyors.

Party Wall & Construction Disputes

Here at Simon Levy Associates, we provide a number of services to our clients, including advice regarding party walls and boundaries. If you’re planning on making alterations to a shared party wall, you may have to seek legal permission to go ahead. In this situation, an experienced party wall surveyor will be needed to provide impartial advice relating to the issue.

Moreover, here at Simon Levy Associates, we can provide support and assistance in the event of a construction dispute between building contractors and clients. While there are a number of reasons that can lead to construction disputes, the important thing is to resolve them quickly with minimal disruption to the project.

Structural Surveys & Defect Diagnosis

Additionally, if you are considering investing in a new home or property, Simon Levy Associates is able to provide full structural surveys to assess the condition of the building before you purchase. This is a crucial service as although many mortgage companies or estate agents offer a survey before you make the purchase, using a chartered surveyor is the only way to guarantee a job is done thoroughly.

As well as providing full structural surveys, we also use our wealth of expertise, experience and skill to assess buildings for defects that may have serious negative effects on a property’s value or structural integrity. Our building defect diagnosis services are effective in identifying the causes of a wide range of issues, from dampness and mould to subsidence and cracking.

Simon Levy Associates

If you’re looking for advice, surveyance or dispute resolution regarding your property or construction project, look no further than Simon Levy Associates. Our team of highly-trained professionals have extensive experience in all manner of issues. From party wall disputes, insurance claims and witness services to building defect diagnosis, we pride ourselves on providing expert services to all of our clients.

Get in touch with us today to discuss your requirements in detail. Call us on 020 8207 6100 or send an email to info@simonlevy.net .

Why Do Construction Disputes Occur?

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 09:20:39 GMT

It goes without saying that any kind of building project, no matter how large or small, encounters problems. Construction can be an incredibly complex industry, with multiple moving parts and constantly shifting parameters that must be adjusted. What’s more, as there are usually a number of parties involved, such as the client, the builders and the suppliers, occasions arise when views differ and individuals do not see eye to eye.

In certain situations, disagreements can escalate to a point at which they must be resolved. Whilst there are a number of factors that can lead to construction disputes, they almost always lead to problems within a project, so it’s important to try to reach a solution. Here is Simon Levy Associates' guide to the causes of construction disputes.

Contractual Disagreements

As is the case in any area of business, contractual agreements can lead to serious disputes if either party feels they are not being honoured. One of the issues with larger projects is that contracts are often amended and some of the risks involved may appear ambiguous. In other words, if both parties interpret the risk of a project differently, disputes may arise if one side feels the contract is not being honoured.

Delays

Moreover, another common cause of construction disputes is a delay in a project schedule. As time is money within the building world, delays can cause major setbacks, leading to tension and disagreements. Of course, most contracts make provision for the extension of a project completion date, but if a project is experiencing frequent setbacks which are costing considerable time and money, disputes are often begun.

Quality Of Work

It might seem obvious, but many disputes occur between clients and contractors regarding the quality of the project upon completion. If a party feels the project has fallen dramatically short of the specifications set out in the contract, a dispute may begin.

This is, of course, a difficult dispute to resolve due to the element of subjectivity involved. Using a trusted construction dispute resolution firm is always recommended in these circumstances.

Complexity

Finally, project complexity is a common cause of disputes. In the early stages of construction work, a proper risk assessment must be carried out before a contract is drawn up and signed. However, this is often overlooked and can lead to significant problems if the project is more complex than anticipated. In this case, construction expert witnesses may be required to mediate and settle the disagreement.

Simon Levy Associates: Construction Dispute Resolution Consultants Watford

In the event of a construction dispute, it is crucial that the proper channels are followed in order to resolve it civilly and swiftly. Here at Simon Levy Associates, we have a wealth of experience working with both builders and clients to reach successful resolutions to their disagreements and disputes.

To discuss your requirements with a member of our experienced team, get in touch with us today. Call us on 020 8207 6100 or send an email to info@simonlevy.net .

Party Wall Act: What If You Can’t Agree?

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 09:18:16 GMT

If you are planning to carry out any building work on a shared wall, you will need to first ensure that you comply with the Party Wall Act. This is an act designed to resolve potential disputes with neighbours before building work is started. But what if you can’t agree? Here’s everything you need to know about the party wall act and what happens when two neighbours can’t agree.

What is the Party Wall Act?

The Party Wall Act 1996 is a piece of legislation in England and Wales designed to pre-empt construction related disagreements between neighbours with a clear legal framework for managing disputes should they arise. It was introduced because building works to party walls can cause damage to an adjoining owner’s buildings and interrupt their enjoyment of their use of their property.

When Do I Need a Party Wall Agreement?

You will need a party wall agreement if you plan on carrying out any building work near or on a party wall.

The following building work will require a party wall agreement:

● Any work done to shared walls (party walls) between semi-detached and terraced houses

● Work involving shared ‘party structures’, such as floors between flats

● Work to garden boundary walls

● Excavation works – within 3-6m of the party wall

● Loft conversions that mean cutting into a party wall

● Inserting a damp proof course into a party wall

● Making party walls thicker or higher

● Building a second-storey extension above a shared wall

● Building a new wall up to or off the party wall

Why Do I Need a Party Wall Agreement?

Party wall agreements ensure that your neighbour doesn’t suffer loss or damage to their property due to your project, and lets them limit disturbance by influencing working hours and access. Poorly executed structural alterations are a common cause of cracking an movement, and have even been a contributing factor in the collapse of adjoining buildings. The act and the agreements are in place to protect properties and any disputes that may occur when building work is carried out.

What is a Party Wall Notice?

A party wall notice is a notice delivered to your neighbour which includes all of the work that you intend to carry out to the party wall. You must give notice to your neighbour between 2 months and a year before you plan to start building works. You will have up to a year to start work once the notice has been served, so it is important to do this as soon as possible to avoid delays.

When writing your notice, you should use the party wall notice templates found on the government’s website and include your affected neighbour’s contact information, comprehensive details of the work you have planned and the potential start date. Ensure that you write to both the building owner and all of the tenants living there. It is also wise to include a reply letter and envelope for the neighbours to sign and return - this should not come as a surprise to them if you have spoken to them before sending.

Maintaining Good Relationships with Your Neighbours

The last thing you want to do is let building work come between your relationships with your neighbours. While you might be desperate to issue your notice straight away so that you can begin your building work, it is a good idea to first inform your neighbour in person of the work that you are planning to carry out before serving a written notice. This will give your neighbour more time to prepare for the work and helps to avoid any misunderstandings or disputes.

You could also give your neighbour a copy of the details of the Party Wall Act to help them to understand the process and feel more at ease. The process will run more smoothly if your neighbours feel informed and respected every step of the way.

What Are Your Neighbours Options For Response?

Your neighbour has many options of response once they have received your party wall notice.

Consent

This is where your neighbour has agreed to your proposal and is happy for you to go ahead with all of your building work.

Refuse Consent

This is where your neighbour has not consented to the work that you are planning to carry out, which launches the beginning of the ‘dispute resolution process’ in which you must find a solution to suit both parties.

Issue a Counter Notice

These notices usually request changes to the work specified or additional works. Your neighbour must let you know in writing within 14 days if they consent to your notice, and you must do the same with any counter notice. A counter notice must be served within a month of the first notice. Your neighbour must respond to the notice - you can’t assume that no response means that they agree to the work.

What Happens if Your Neighbour Doesn’t Agree?

If your neighbour does not agree to the notice, you must appoint a surveyor. You can either appoint a surveyor together or each appoint your own. The surveyors will then agree on a ‘party wall award.’

This is a legal document which says:

● What work will happen

● How and when it will be carried out

● Who will pay for which part and how much will be paid

While fees can vary, party wall awards usually cost around £1,000 in total.

If your neighbour fails to appoint their own surveyor, you can appoint a surveyor on their behalf.

Who Pays for the Work?

It will generally be the case that if you are the one seeking to commence the work to or near a party wall then you will cover the cost for the work plus any legal or expert fees involved. However, your neighbour may need to contribute to the costs of the work if it relates to a specific maintenance or repair issue for which you are both liable.

If either party does not agree with the outcome of the party wall award, they have 14 days to contest it but the appeal must be logged with the county court. As a result, the county court may overturn or make changes to the award or make an alternative decision in relation to the costs for the work and/or the dispute process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When going through the party wall agreement process, it is useful to know what the most commonly made mistakes are so that you can avoid them.

● Not providing adequate notice - Without providing notice, you are not protected against fraudulent claims. Your neighbour could contact a party wall surveyor who would write up a ‘schedule of condition’, which is an independently written report documenting the state of repair of adjoining owners’ properly. It serves as a baseline against which an observer can take a ‘before and after’ reading of the condition of a property and therefore assess if any damage has been caused as a result of building work you have undertaken

● Not informing all of the affected neighbours - If you live in a terraced house, neighbours on both sides may be affected depending on the building work. A homeowner living next to flats, may need to serve notice on a number of different people

● Not thoroughly describing the proposed work - It is important to describe the proposed work in detail and include all of the sufficient information. Failure to do so means that your building works are not legally protected

Local Building Surveyors in Borehamwood

If your neighbour has refused to consent to your party wall notice, you will need an experienced party wall surveyor who can provide professional, impartial advice.

Simon Levy is a highly experienced party wall consultant who has provided administration and expert witness services in a range of highly complex party wall disputes where a high level of skills and knowledge is required. Serving expert advice in Borehamwood and across the home countries, Simon Levy is your top choice for expert building surveyors in Borehamwood. We also offer a range of other high quality services, including expert witnesses, domestic building work, insurance claims and so much more.

With over 30 years of professional experience, Simon Levy Associates are more than qualified to assist you in any building surveying issue that you may have. Whether it's regarding residential, institutions, commercial, educational, ecclesiastical and commercial property, we are here to help you.

If you would like to learn more about the wide range of services we provide, contact a member of our helpful team here today.

What Building Defects Can Be Found with a Building Survey?

Wed, 20 Jul 2022 09:11:40 GMT

Whether your home is new or it was built many years ago, getting a building survey can help you find any building defects in the home. It can save the homeowner a lot of money by finding these defects early before they start to cause problems. It’s also useful to know what to expect if you’re about to buy a property.

If the defects are already causing problems, a building survey can help find the cause and determine how extensive the issue is. Building surveys help you understand exactly where you stand with any problems that could arise in the future so that you can fix them quickly and efficiently.

Why Survey a New Home?

Many people believe that a new building shouldn’t need a building survey because it is brand new and shouldn’t have any problems. Often that is not the case.

It takes a lot of different types of craftsmen to build a home and if one of them doesn’t read the plans correctly or if the plans are not correct, it can cause major problems down the road. A seemingly simple mistake can have a domino effect. Getting a building survey when the build is finished means that you can get on top of any of those issues before they become expensive to repair.

What Kind of Defects Can be Found?

A proper survey can find a wide range of types of defects. One of the most common is when dampness or water is found in the walls or ceiling of a building. This can be caused by a few different things including leaking pipes or a gap in the roofing. Another cause of dampness is condensation from a space where there is no airflow. If the foundation is not properly sealed, damp may creep upwards from the soil, as well.

Any defects that include moisture can result in a lot of damage if they are not caught quickly. They may cause mould and rot that will spread and any contaminated materials need to be fully replaced to get rid of it. In the time that it takes to find mould, it could begin to cause health issues for the people who are living in that space. Leaks and condensation from lack of airflow need to be remedied as quickly as possible. Other defects that can be found are distortion or bulging walls. This can be caused by things like dampness or improperly attached materials. If it is improper installation, the solution can be quite simple and inexpensive. Bulging walls caused by water can uncover a lot of other bigger problems though. If you notice any oddities in your walls walls, it’s important to get a building survey as soon as possible to find out the cause of the issue.

A building survey can also uncover structural movement, heave or cracking. Anything that causes cracks and heaves can put the entire building in danger of being structurally unsound. If you notice heaving or cracking you should get it checked out, even if it is slight. A professional surveyor will be able to tell you if the issue is one that can easily be fixed and if it puts your family at risk at all. Another defect that a proper building survey can find is sound penetration. There should be at least a certain amount of soundproofing when it comes to a home. This is particularly important if the building has multiple units.

A building surveyor will be able to determine if there is too much sound penetration. If it does, they may make recommendations on what should be done to dampen the sound.

When Should You Get a Building Survey?

There are a few times when you should think about getting a professional to come in and survey your home. If you buy a home, it is important to bring in a building surveyor immediately to assess any defects. This is best done before the purchase of the property goes through so you can have all the information you need to consider if this is the right home for you. This survey should be done no matter the age of the home.

Another reason you might want to bring in a building surveyor is if you are planning on doing any renovations to your home. Knowing what defects might affect your renovation will be helpful to know ahead of time so that you can build that into your budget and timeline.

Another time you might consider having your home surveyed is if you find any moisture, mould, bulging or cracking. Anything that looks out of place can be a reaction to a defect. Building surveyors will be able to help you find out if the issue is one that you need to worry about.

What to Look for in a Building Surveyor

When you are looking at getting a professional surveyor to come in and survey your home, there are a few things to consider. You will need to find a company that has a good reputation for being thorough in their surveys.

A good surveying company will not only tell you the issues and the necessary remedy. They should also provide you with a detailed report that will give you all of the options available to you in order to fix the issues. They should also provide you with an idea of how urgent each repair is and give you a range of options that can fit your budget.

The building survey company will also have good relationships with contractors who do the sorts of work that you need to be done. They can recommend a trusted contractor. They also should be happy to answer any questions that you may have after you are able to read through the report. When you are looking for a good building surveyor, it is important to do some research to find one you feel comfortable with.

In need of a building defect diagnosis? Simon Levy is standing by to help. Contact us now .

How to Oppose a Neighbour’s Planning Permission Application

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 14:17:46 GMT

What happens when your neighbour plans a building project that obstructs your view or devalues your home? Large renovations and new structures require planning permission. Luckily, this means that you have the chance to oppose it and could potentially get their permission overturned.

Talk to Your Neighbour

The first step in any objection should be to speak with your neighbour about the issue. Sometimes you can resolve the issue without going through the legal process. If you do go through the full process, it can create a lot of strain on your relationship. Try talking it out first.

Research and Learn

In order to successfully oppose a planning permission application, you will need to learn as much as you can. Start by learning about planning permissions in your area. Find out what different types of planning applications exist, then determine what type your neighbour applied for. You should also learn who the appropriate local authority is and if there is a specific process for the opposition. Once you have all that information it’s time to start formulating your objection.

Drafting an Objection

When you are creating an objection, it cannot be a general one. You need to have specific reasons as to why you are opposing the plan. Take the information you learned from your research and use it to articulate why you are objecting. Ensure your reasons are acceptable for objecting according to your local authority.

Submitting Your Objection

The next step is to actually submit it to the right authorities. Make sure that you pay attention to the timelines they lay out. Comments and objections typically need to be filed within 21 days. Late submissions are often overlooked. It does not cost anything to object, but you should know that it will be public. Objections cannot be made confidentially, so your neighbour will know that you objected to their proposal.

Attend Council Meetings

It is important that you attend any council meetings that concern the planning application. If you would like to be added to the meeting agenda, you can contact your council to ask how to be added. Even if you are not on the agenda, you should attend to ensure that if it is spoken about, you are able to comment. Are you considering an objection? Let Simon Levy Associates help. Contact us today for more information.

Insurance Claims: Why You Need a Professional on Your Side

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 14:09:12 GMT

Insurance claims can be one of the most frustrating things you may ever have to deal with. They typically happen during one of the most stressful times in your life. So, is it better to tackle it on your own or should you involve a professional? There are a few reasons why working with a professional is one of the best decisions you can make.

It Relieves Stress

When you are dealing with the reason for the insurance claim, your stress levels are already high. When you need to also manage the claim itself, it can be incredibly overwhelming. Hiring a professional to come in and take care of the details can be a huge relief. They will still keep you updated with every step of the process so you know what’s going on but you don’t have to deal with the logistics.

They Understand the Fine Print

In every insurance claim, there is a lot of legal information typically written in the smallest print that you should really pay attention to. By hiring a professional, they already know all of the legal terms and have a solid understanding of what is being said. You can sit back and let them deal with the legal lingo.

They are Unbiased

When dealing with a stressful insurance claim, it can be difficult to keep emotion out of it. Have a professional deal with the logistics of the claim process and they’ll be objective. This allows them to get everything sorted faster.

They are Trained in Negotiation

It can be hard to know when to negotiate and when to take what is being offered. By bringing in a professional, they will know if the offer being made is reasonable or if they should push for more. They also have all the information they need to back up their negotiations. In almost every case, people who used a professional to help with their insurance claims made more money than those who did it themselves. Are you ready for some help? At Simon Levy Associates , we have the experience to aid you with your insurance claim. Get in touch today to discuss your claim with us and receive expert advice in return.

Should You Buy a Home with Significant Damage?

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 13:39:05 GMT

There are multiple reasons people choose to buy a home that has significant damage. They are often much more affordable to get into the housing market. You also have the opportunity to renovate it exactly how you would like it. There are many reasons why this may not be the best option for you though. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision.

Cost

Although a home with significant damage might be more affordable, it often costs a lot more to get it into a liveable condition again. This can sometimes be on par with buying a home that is already in good condition.

Estimate the Damage

When looking at any home, it’s important to get a structural survey done so you know what to expect. If you are buying a damaged home, it is even more important that you bring in a professional. Although you may be able to see the surface damage yourself, a professional can ensure there are few surprises. They will take a deeper look and will let you know about any structural issues or problems with the foundation. Having a proper survey done will allow you to decide if it is worth the cost to fix it.

Have a Plan and Prepare for a Risk

When buying a significantly damaged home, it’s important to have a plan with a realistic timeline and budget. Any renovation will have unexpected costs and delays that you should include in your plan. It’s important to understand and be prepared for the risk of discovering even more damage as you open walls.

Negotiate the Price

If you decide that this is the home for you, use the survey you had done by a professional to negotiate the price. Once you are armed with the information of exactly what the damage is, you will be able to make informed arguments as to why the cost should be reduced. If the roof needs replacing or there is structural damage that wasn’t considered when pricing, then you can negotiate that cost into the price of the home.

Simon Levy Associates can handle the structural survey for you. Contact us now to schedule your survey.

Signs You Have Mould in Your Home

Wed, 15 Jun 2022 13:37:12 GMT

Mould is never a good thing to find in your home. It can cause damage to the structure as well as create health problems. It’s best to catch it early so you may fix the problem before it becomes bigger. There are a few signs that you may have mould in your home.

Dark Tile Grout

If the grout between the tiles in your shower is darker than it should be? This can be a sign of mould. Start by using a tile cleaner to clean the grout up and then keep an eye on it to see if it returns quickly.

Peeling Wallpaper

Peeling wallpaper can be a sign of moisture in the walls. This often means that there is mould or that there will be soon. If you find that your wallpaper is peeling, you may want to bring in a professional to survey the space and find the source of the moisture.

Dark Spots or Texture on Walls or Ceilings

If a dark spot appears on the walls or ceiling or the texture starts to change, that may indicate there is a leak. Leaks almost always lead to mould and should be addressed immediately. The most important thing is to find and fix the leak. Once the leak is fixed, if there is no mould already, you’ll need to dry the space.

Seasonal Allergies That Won’t Go Away

Seasonal allergies should only last for the season of whatever you are allergic to. If you find that your allergies are just not going away, that could mean that there is mould in your home. This will mean that you should get your home checked so that you can fix the problem and get back to your healthy self. Whether you are planning to live in your home or sell it in the near future, it’s important to get your home surveyed if you find signs of mould. A home won’t sell without a survey and it is better to catch the mould early so that you can fix the problem and ensure a quick sale. Contact Simon Levy Associates today to schedule a structural survey to look for mould.

Why You Need a Pre-Purchase Survey

Thu, 12 May 2022 13:39:00 GMT

When you are buying a home, it is important to get a pre-purchase survey to ensure the home is safe for you and your family. No matter the age of the home, it can have defects that could cause long term issues. Having a professional surveyor do a building defect diagnosis will help find any issues that may arise and give you peace of mind.

Renovation Errors

When a home is renovated, supports may be removed during the process. Even if it is not load-bearing support, it can still affect how your home settles. Improperly placed beams and pillars can cause uneven settling and your home may not be square due to this.

If the missing support is load-bearing, it is likely a safety issue and needs to be rectified immediately. Poor support and instability are just some of the many issues that can arise from a poor renovation. It’s a great asset to have a professional look over the home.

Dampness and Condensation

Another problem that a pre-purchase survey may find is dampness or condensation. These could lead to mould propagation. Some moulds are dangerous to breathe in and could become a health concern for your family.

Dampness can also cause rot, which affects the structure of your home. The act of hiring a surveyor to look for issues could save you money over time. When you know what the problems are, you can fix them before they become bigger problems. If you leave water issues unresolved, the damage can become severe quite quickly.

Cracking and Distortion

Older homes can be susceptible to damage that may not be noticed by someone who doesn’t know what they are looking for. Even small cracks can be an indication of a bigger problem. Surveyors look for any sort of bulging or distortion in the walls and ceiling that could be a safety issue. A good surveyor will note any problems and give you a list of which ones need to be addressed immediately.

They will also advise you on the ones you need to keep an eye on in the future. Hiring a professional to properly survey your home before you purchase it is an important step in homeownership. Being able to walk into a purchase knowing exactly what issues you will be dealing with is so much better than finding out after the purchase.

You will be able to decide if you want to put the work into this particular home and estimate the cost. If there is more work than you are willing to do or if it will be too expensive, you know this before finalising the purchase.

Contact Us

At Simon Levy, we help you discover potential damage in the home you wish to buy. Contact us today to schedule your pre-purchase survey.

What You Need to Know About Purchasing Commercial Property

Wed, 11 May 2022 13:55:20 GMT

Buying commercial property can be quite the process. It requires extensive research and plenty of due diligence. After all, this is a major investment you’re making and if it is your first time purchasing a commercial property, there are a few things you need to know.

Determine Your Property Plans First

Before you purchase land , you need to know what type of business or development you intend to have. This will determine the suitability of the property and can be necessary if you want to ensure the property is a good investment. After all, a hotel may do well in a downtown location, but a business that caters to people looking for peace and quiet may do better in a more remote locale.

Having a plan in mind will also allow you to determine how much space you need. As you view properties, you can determine if they are suitable for your needs, based on the amount of space they provide. Unless you know what you want to do, it’s difficult to assess the property clearly.

This also allows you to come up with your buying criteria, which you can then measure every property against. It should be relatively simple to determine if a property is the right one or not when you have a list of what you need.

Determine Your Budget

It doesn’t matter if the land is perfect or if the premises are exactly what you need if it’s beyond your budget. This is why it’s best to not only research the prices in the area but also determine what you can afford.

If you’re planning to take out a loan or mortgage from the bank, you’ll want to talk to them first to find out how much you can get. This will help you narrow down your search and may require choosing another location. While not as ideal, it’s also not a good idea to throw yourself into a business investment where you will be in deep debt

Another thing to consider when planning your budget is what the ROI or return on investment is. It needs to be profitable to invest in the property, or it isn’t worth it. This may sound like a lot of maths, but it’s necessary if you want to have the ability to make money in the long term.

Remember to stay realistic as you make your budget. Use numbers from other businesses in the area or similar businesses to see what you could actually get back.

Is the Property Flexible for Business?

Some properties will have limits due to zoning and bylaws. They may limit what type of business you can have in the building and this will restrict not only what you can do there, but how you can sell it. Other buyers may not be interested if they can’t manage their business.

This also goes for the land you wish to develop. Before you purchase, make certain you have examined the potential issues that may come up. You’ll need to reduce the problems or adjust your expectations if things are not as you thought.

Get a Structural Survey Done

Ideally, you’ll have a professional commercial building surveyor examine the property. They will look for possible problems that could affect your investment, including structural defects, poor building materials and techniques, as well as problems with insects, termites, or mould and condensation. They can easily spot water damage and indications that the property is not as pristine or perfect as it is portrayed.

Once the survey is complete, you’ll receive a list of everything that was found. This can either be your signal to walk away from the property or you may be able to use the information to reduce the price.

It’s always a good idea to know what you’re getting into, so a structural survey is your best option for ensuring the property is a good one.

Common Property Survey Issues

What does a property survey show? That depends on the property, but there are specific things that the surveyor will be watching for.

Water Damage or Damp

It’s not uncommon to find damp in a building that has had water run through it or has not been properly protected. This means water may work its way up from the foundation and create problems on the way up the walls. However, it is also possible to find water damage at the top of the building, as well, where the rain gets through the roof. It may also make its way in through gaps around windows and doors and even cracks in doors.

In some cases, a pipe has broken in the past and the water has damaged areas of the property. Since commercial properties undergo more renovations than other types of properties, it’s very possible that there are some unaddressed problems regarding water damage and dampness.

Drainage Problems

If the building has drainage problems, you could also be looking at a large amount of work. This may become apparent when you notice the water damage throughout the building.

Drainage comes in the form of drain pipes, as well as the drainage around the building. Sometimes the issue is as simple as replacing the old gutters, but if there is a collapsed drainage pipe, you will need to do some much more invasive work. All of this will cost more money and you may decide that it’s just not worth the price.

In addition, poor drainage systems may cause sewage to back up into the building, which can cause hazardous conditions at worst and unpleasant odours at best. You definitely need to consider this decision carefully if you find that there are problems with the drains.

Unsafe Wiring

How well done is the electrical wiring throughout the building? This is something that can be difficult to check, so a professional is useful to ensure the electric system is in good condition. Check that the system meets all the necessary standards. If it doesn’t, you may need to rewire the entire building and this can be quite expensive.

Any electrical problems that come up should be double-checked with an electrician who can give you a quote on the entire property. This will also help you determine what the budget for renovating will be.

Roof Problems

Another issue is the roof. Many roofs are not in great condition and it’s important to have a building surveyor inspect the one you are considering purchasing. In some cases, the problem is minor and may just be a cracked tile or a few missing shingles from a storm. In other cases, it could be much more severe, with leaks that could result in major damage to the building.

Poor Insulation

Insulation is key to preventing high energy bills. You will want to check how much electricity the building uses during the winter, as well as the summer. If you notice that the heat and cold result in massive spikes in energy use, it’s possible the insulation needs to be replaced.

The building surveyor will look at this and determine if there is a problem with the insulation. This can also indicate if there are pests in the building, as rats and mice often make nests in the insulation. While this is something you can certainly change out, it is another thing to consider when planning your commercial building purchase.

It’s always a good idea to carry out a property survey and Simon Levy is here to help. We offer full property surveys to help you determine what a site may require in the future. This can help you decide whether or not you want to buy.

Contact Us

Ready to schedule a survey? Contact us now .

The Dangers of an Unsupported Chimney Stack

Mon, 09 May 2022 13:25:22 GMT

One of the biggest issues that people find when buying an older home is dealing with old fireplaces and chimneys. Depending on how old the home is, there is a good chance that it has been through multiple renovations over the years. Renovations can often alter the space which could create issues if the chimney stack isn’t supported properly.

What is an Unsupported Chimney Stack?

An unsupported chimney stack is any part of the chimney structure that is left behind after parts are removed. This could be because the fireplace became redundant and the previous owner decided to remove the fireplace itself to make more space on the lower floors.

By removing the lower fireplace and chimney, the renovators left the chimney stack on the upper floors unsupported by anything but the floorboards on the upper floor. Chimneys, especially old chimneys, can be incredibly heavy. Leaving even a small chunk of it left unsupported could result in a potential collapse.

Do You Have an Unsupported Chimney Stack?

You can poke around and see if there are pieces missing from the chimneys in your home. But you won’t really know if safety precautions have been taken or not unless you bring in a surveyor to check it out for you. A surveyor is properly trained in finding out what supports have been implemented and can determine if the chimney could be a danger to you or your family.

What to Do if You Have an Unsupported Chimney Stack?

If you have had a surveyor confirm that you have an unsupported chimney stack, there are a couple of ways you can address the situation. One option is to remove the remaining stack so you no longer have a chimney. This is usually the cheapest option but can leave your home looking like it’s missing something. If you like the visual aesthetics of a chimney stack, the second option might be better for you.

To avoid removing the chimney stack, you can provide additional support to ensure the chimney is safe. This includes working with an engineer to provide the necessary structure the chimney breast requires. Often this is done with steel brackets known as gallows brackets. They can take the weight of the bricks and create a much safer environment.

The danger of an unsupported chimney stack is that it could collapse and cause injury or even death to the occupants of the house. Homeownership comes with the responsibility to ensure the occupants of the house are as safe as you can make them.

Contact Us

Here at Simon Levy Associates , we specialise in helping you stay safe. We’ll examine your home and do a full survey, then provide you with the information to fix the problems. Contact us today to arrange a survey.

Boundary Disputes: What to Know and When to Hire a Surveyor

Wed, 04 May 2022 13:14:09 GMT

One of the most common issues for landowners is having a boundary dispute with a neighbour. There are a number of reasons why a dispute like this might come up. Inaccurate deed descriptions, misinterpretation of the surveys and following oral accounts of boundaries passed down through generations can all be the cause of these types of disputes.

If you find yourself in the midst of a land dispute, here’s what you need to know and when you should hire a professional to sort it out.

Get the Facts

The first thing you should do is try and sit down with your neighbour. It’s a good opportunity to look at where the information is coming from. Why do you think the boundary is where you think it is and what documentation do you have to back that up? Ask the same thing of your neighbour.

Take the time to objectively go through any documentation you each have and see if there is a simple misunderstanding. If a boundary dispute can be solved through a conversation, that is always the best way to go. Hopefully, you’ll be able to resolve the dispute, otherwise, it’s time to bring in the professionals.

Hire a Surveyor

A surveyor will be able to find and clearly mark the legal boundaries of a property. If talking to your neighbour isn’t enough to solve the dispute, hiring a surveyor to find the property lines and lay them out for the both of you should help.

The surveyor can able to step back and do it completely objectively because they are following the actual borders, rather than the perceived boundaries. Have them mark it out and then walk you and your neighbour through it so that there is no confusion. This should clear up the situation, but if you have a neighbour who is particularly stubborn and still will not acknowledge the proper borders, you may have to bring in legal help.

Hire a Solicitor

If drawing out the boundaries with a proper survey doesn’t resolve the dispute, it may be time to hire a solicitor who can legally advise you. It is important to not skip the surveyor as this is the first thing legal counsel will inquire about. They may also require a second land survey to ensure that the first one is correct before they can proceed with the case.

Boundary disputes are a draining experience, but hiring the right professionals can help you sort it out without too much of a headache. Bringing in a surveyor quickly before things get heated is the best way to resolve an issue with a neighbour. Often if you let anger build on both sides, it becomes more difficult to resolve something that could have been quite simple.

Contact Us

If you are dealing with a boundary dispute, Simon Levy can help. Contact us to find out how to ensure you win the case.

5 Signs of Subsidence

Tue, 03 May 2022 13:01:05 GMT

One of the worst things a homeowner can encounter is something called subsidence. Subsidence is when the ground underneath a structure begins to collapse. This can be quite dangerous because as the ground collapses, it will take the foundations of the building with it.

Over time, you’ll begin to see structural damage. Subsidence typically happens slowly over time but there are a few warning signs to watch for. It’s best to discover the issue before it becomes dangerous.

Sloped or Sinking Floors

One thing that may be noticeable is when floors are sloped or seem to be sinking. This can sometimes be caught by just looking at the floor, but also can be tested. Place a marble in the centre of the floor and see if it rolls on its own. You can also use liquid, though this is messier.

Cracks

If you notice that cracks are forming in the mortar lines of your home’s brickwork or in concrete walls, paths and driveways, subsidence may be the issue. Not all cracks are caused by subsidence, but it can be a good indicator for you to investigate and find out why cracks are occurring.

Doors and Windows Don’t Shut Properly

When a house settles more than it should, such as when the ground collapses below it, things shift. This means doors and windows will sometimes get jammed or no longer shut properly. This can also happen when a house settles the regular amount, but it is something you should be aware of. This is quite common in older homes especially and it is worth noting when a door or window seems to get sticky, it may also be swollen from rain or water.

Puddles Around the Perimeter

After it has rained, walk around your home and note any puddles and drainage issues that have appeared. If they abruptly begin to be an issue, this can be an indicator the ground below is shifting. New dips around the house may indicate that your home is unstable.

Skirting Boards Separating from the Wall

When the trim and skirting boards in your home begin to develop gaps, it could be a sign that your house is shifting more than normal. If you notice this is happening, take a look around your home for the other signs of subsidence. It may be time to call a professional.

If you do see some of the signs of subsidence, it’s important to bring in a surveyor to take a look and ensure that your home is safe. If you can catch subsidence early, it can be an easier fix than if you wait until you need to lift the home and redo the foundation. A surveyor can help you know what needs to be done and things to keep an eye on so that you are properly prepared for the situation if it arises.

Contact Us

If you suspect your home is shifting, contact Simon Levy Associates today for more information.

How Can Condensation Impact My Home?

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 09:02:17 GMT

Condensation is something that can be easy to overlook and neglect, but it can actually cause some serious damage to your home. Firstly, it is best to address exactly what condensation is. Condensation occurs when water vapour comes into contact with a colder surface. Condensation is most commonly seen in bedroom windows in the morning, or on bathroom windows after a shower. Whilst it might seem relatively harmless, condensation has the ability to seriously impact your home.

Here’s how condensation can impact your home and how Simon Levy Associates can help.

Mould

No matter how new or old your home is, your home is susceptible to condensation. Nobody wants mould in their home and unfortunately, condensation is one of the main culprits of mould. This is often seen in the corner of bedrooms, bathrooms and in cupboards. This is because of the water vapour which condenses on cold surfaces that isn’t removed. Mould is a type of property damage that can actually cause respiratory problems, allergies and asthma. As a result of this, it’s important to have this addressed at the earliest opportunity.

Rot

Condensation can also cause structural damage such as wood rot. Wet rot is a product of condensation which can be harmful, but enlisting the help of an experienced specialist surveyor means that you can catch it early. However, wet rot can turn into dry rot if you don’t act quickly. Not only is dry rot very difficult to treat, but it is also harmful to the structure qualities of your property. It’s therefore best to get the help of a property damage specialist to establish the cause and find a way to eradicate this issue.

Impacting Appearance

As well as affecting the structural integrity of your property, condensation can be a detriment to appearance. Condensation has the ability to damage walls, with mould growing on the affected surfaces. This can be incredibly frustrating for homeowners because not only is it difficult to remove, but it also requires you to reinvest in decoration to breathe some life back into your living area.

Acting quickly is the best way to prevent condensation from impacting your home. At Simon Levy Associates , we know how infuriating building defects can be to your home. That’s why we’re the property damage company you can contact to establish the cause of the condensation and how to overcome it. Not only that, but our services can also help you to build a successful building insurance claim. To find out more about the products and services we offer, then get in touch with our team today!

Three Mistakes First-Time Home Buyers Make

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 08:55:20 GMT

Putting your first foot on the property ladder is undoubtedly an exciting time, but it could be said that buying a home is a bit of a minefield when it comes to the mistakes you can make. The number of challenges and obstacles that you face are aplenty, so it’s a good idea to get a headstart so you don’t make the same mistakes as others!

Here are just three mistakes first-time homebuyers make, so you’re aware of what you shouldn't do!

Research the Area

It might seem obvious, but researching the area is absolutely crucial when it comes to purchasing your first property. When looking at properties, you should be thinking about the location and what it has to offer. Some of the things you might want to look for is good transport links, pubs, bars, restaurants, gyms and supermarkets. If you move into your new home and discover that there’s nothing near that interests you, then you’ll be left bitterly disappointed. It might be a good idea to visit the area before placing any offers so you know exactly what to expect from the area.

Ignore Surveying

One of the worst mistakes first-time homebuyers can make when purchasing a home is not enlisting the help of property surveyors. Property surveyors assess the property before you make any big decisions, saving you thousands of pounds on repairs and maintenance. There’s nothing worse than moving into your ideal home and discovering there’s an abundance of work that needs to be done which will cost a fortune, so it’s important to have a full structural surveyor come in and take a look at the property.

Ignore Credit Score

Your credit score plays a huge role when it comes to buying your first home. Your credit score influences whether they should lend money to you, so it’s important to keep your score as high as possible. Having a poor credit score will increase the chances of your application being rejected, meaning that your dream home could slip through your fingers. Adding insult to injury, a rejected application can go against your existing credit score - so it’s vital that your credit score is built up in the first place. There are several ways in which you can build up your credit score, but it’s something that you should frequently keep a close eye on.

If you’re looking for a surveyor to look over a property, then look no further than Simon Levy Associates . Our property and building surveyors have a wealth of experience behind them, so they can fully appraise the situation before you commit to any big decisions. Based in Borehamwood, Barnet and Watford, we’re the expert structural surveyors you can count on. To find out more about the services we offer, then get in touch with our team today.

What Projects Need a Party Wall Agreement?

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 08:37:36 GMT

If you own a property that is conjoined to another, then it is likely that there is a party wall in place. Before any project starts, you must contact the adjoining owner and inform them with a formal written notice. This is usually completed months before work commences. Essentially, a party wall agreement is a document that provides evidence that your neighbour has consented for you to start your construction.

It can sometimes be difficult knowing what projects require a party wall, and which ones don’t. Luckily, this guide will help you to distinguish what projects require a party wall agreement. If you’re unsure about how you should approach agreements for your project, it is best to receive party wall advice.

Loft Conversions

If you live in a terraced or semi-detached house, then a party wall agreement will be required for loft conversions. Loft conversions can involve structural changes to shared walls, chimneys and roofs. These changes could potentially damage the adjoining properties, therefore the agreement allows for all parties to be protected.

Extensions

Extensions are usually big projects, creating an entirely new room in your home. However, before starting anything you’ll need to get a party wall set up. Planning an extension can be exciting but if your neighbours don’t consent, then this puts your project to a halt. If you fail to come to an agreement with your neighbour, then you might need a party wall act surveyor to help with the dispute.

Basement

If you’re thinking of adding a basement to your home, then you’ll also need a party wall agreement. Adding a basement is not a small task, meaning that there is always the potential for damage.

Removing Chimney

If your chimney stack is shared with a neighbour, then a party wall agreement will be required. This is because of the amount of structural work that is required surrounding chimney removal. The chimney cannot be removed without permission granted from the neighbours.

Are you looking for a company that provides party wall services? Then look no further than Simon Levy Associates . With years of experience under our belt, our party wall advice can guide you through the process every step of the way. We know how complex and intricate the process can be, that’s why our party wall services are here to give you a helping hand when you need it the most. Whether you’re looking to make alterations to your party wall or you’re simply looking for party wall advice, we have got you covered. To find out more about the services we offer, then get in touch with our team today!

What to Do at the End of Your Tenancy Agreement

Wed, 13 Apr 2022 08:31:50 GMT

When you come to the end of your tenancy agreement and you’re not extending your stay, you might be wondering what you should do. It might seem that there are hundreds of different tasks that you need to complete, and it can be confusing knowing what to prioritise. Ending your tenancy can be a stressful process, so it’s useful to get a head start on what you can do to make for a smooth conclusion.

From receiving dilapidation surveys to checking the inventory, here are just some of the things you need to do at the end of your tenancy agreement.

Check the Inventory

Just like when you first move into the property, an inventory should be completed when you move out. This is used by the landlord to see if there are any discrepancies between this and the original inventory from when you first moved in. From here, the landlord will be able to make judgements as to whether there are any deposit deductions because of damaged or missing items.

Whilst you are responsible for any damage that occurs during your tenancy, in some instances landlords can make unfair claims demanding you to pay money for something that was already damaged. The last thing you want before moving out is an invoice for damage that wasn’t your fault. In this case, hiring dilapidation surveyors use their expertise to help you with your case so you are charged fairly and accurately.

Have a Clean

It could be said that cleanliness is the most common subject of tenancy deposit disputes. It is therefore in your best interests to leave the house in the best condition possible. If you’re feeling particularly busy with all the other logistical aspects of the moving out process, you could hire a professional cleaning company instead. Just remember to keep all the relevant paperwork and receipts to prove it had been cleaned!

Return the Keys

It might seem obvious, but returning your keys is something you need to do when your tenancy agreement ends. When the big day arrives and you move out, the property needs to be locked up and the keys are given back. If you fail to return the keys or you’ve lost them, then the landlord is in their right to deduct money from your deposit.

Are you looking for a dilapidation report? Look no further than Simon Levy Associates . We know how infuriating it is to be charged for damage that was not your fault, that’s why our surveyors are here to negotiate the best deal for you. Based in Borehamwood, Barnet and Watford, our team of dilapidation surveyors can give you a helping hand when you need it most. To find out more about the services we offer, get in touch with our team today!

A Guide to Becoming a Property Surveyor

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 10:12:02 GMT

There is a high demand for surveyors at the moment. This means that employers are now working harder than ever to retain their existing surveyors and to attract new talent, for instance, by offering a competitive rate of pay, a thriving work culture, and attractive career development prospects. All of this makes property surveying a satisfying career with excellent progression, good pay and benefits, and a wealth of career opportunities to explore. If this sounds appealing to you, keep reading to discover just how you can embark on a career in property surveying.

The apprenticeship route

Many prospective surveyors go down the apprenticeship or internship route after completing their GCSEs. This involves taking a 5-year chartered surveyor apprenticeship, which requires completion of 3 A-Levels at Grade C or equivalent and a Level 3 Surveying Technician apprenticeship. It is also possible to approach employers that might be willing to take on young people who want to work towards a career in surveying, either through a surveying company, an estate agency, a property developer or a construction company. Many of the UK property consultancies offer graduate or apprenticeship placements that allow candidates to learn on the job and complete their Assessment of Professional Competence (APC) alongside their work. These are often very competitive, however, so it’s recommended that candidates gain work experience prior to applying.

School leavers can also sign up to the Chartered Surveyors Training Trust (CSTT), provided by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). This is an organisation that helps young people to become surveyors by offering apprenticeship schemes that count towards associate membership (AssocRICS).

The university route

Prospective surveyors can also enter the industry by gaining a university degree. Here’s a quick step-by-step summary of this career path.

Step 1: Earn a degree

To become a chartered surveyor, a RICS-accredited degree course is recommended. It is also possible to graduate with a non-RICS-accredited degree and then undertake a postgraduate RICS-accredited degree for one year before embarking on the APC.

Step 2: Gain work experience

After obtaining a degree, or sometimes during the degree, prospective surveyors should find employment to develop their industry experience.

Step 3: Take the APC

Degrees are usually followed by the APC, whether they’re RICS-accredited or not. The APC is a structured training work placement carried out over a minimum period of 2 years. This must be completed in order to become a full member of RICS.

Step 4: Maintain professional development

It’s important that fully qualified chartered surveyors continue to expand upon their knowledge and skillset by undertaking continuous professional development (CPD).

If you’re in need of a chartered building surveyor in the Borehamwood, Watford or Barnet areas, Simon Levy Associates are here to help. With over 30 years of experience and a wealth of industry knowledge, we pride ourselves on maintaining the high level of ethical and professional standards expected of chartered architects and chartered surveyors.

No matter what building-related services you require, a skilled and professional member of our team will be able to assist you. Contact us today to learn more about what we do here at Simon Levy Associates.

Common Issues Found During Structural Surveys

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 09:44:01 GMT

Focusing purely on the structural integrity of a property, a structural survey is carried out to identify the overall condition of a building, focusing primarily on the structural integrity of residential properties. Carried out by a structural engineer, structural surveys are highly thorough investigations primarily used to identify potential defects within a property, with an in-depth report provided to the property owner on any potential issues and actions required.

What’s A Structural Survey?

An in-depth and comprehensive report of the condition or construction of a property, a Structural Survey provides detailed information of the state of a property for potential buyers on the market. Structural surveys are used to assess the interior and exterior of a building to assess or determine potential defects, issues or serious structural decline. As a general rule, a Structural Survey for a building should contain the following:

● A thorough assessment of defects and potential hazards within the property.

● Advice on repairs and maintenance, plus any potential costs.

● Full details of previous structural work on the property (if any).

● Property valuation (if requested).

Unlike a building survey, a structural survey will focus predominantly on the structural integrity of a property, focusing instead on particular problems of notable structural defects, as opposed to the general condition of the property and grounds. Carried out by a structural engineer, a structural survey will usually take no more than a day to conclude, with the full report produced within five to ten days of completion.

Why It Matters

Structural Surveys are vital in identifying potential issues that could have serious ramifications on your property in the future, particularly in the event of a sale. Should you decide to go ahead without a structural survey being performed on a property you plan on purchasing, you are running a real risk of unexpected repairs and maintenance costs cropping up in the future. Remember; once your initial offer for the property has been accepted, it’s at this stage you should have a structural survey conducted on the property before you finalise the deal. This will help to ensure you are not obligated to purchase the property even if you do encounter structural problems.

Generally speaking, it will cost between £600-£1300 for a full structural survey, depending on the property type, location and size, due to the immense detail required and the importance of having one performed.

Common Issues

There is a long list of potential issues, ranging from the mild to the severe, that can be identified by a structural survey. Most will generally require small fixes and maintenance work to restore, but there are some problems that will require immediate action. Below are some of the main issues identified by structural surveys:

Poor Ventilation & Damp

Many older properties suffer from the impacts of dampness, condensation or mould; and when this is coupled with poor ventilation in the property, this problem can be compounded even further. Older properties are typically constructed without adequate ventilation or damp proofing and this is a common problem in many UK households.

Structural Movement

One of the biggest issues found during structural surveys is the identification of structural movement. This occurs when integral parts of the building that are in place to provide the strength and stability of the property begin to shift. Roofing, flooring, walls, frameworks and foundations will all suffer from this problem, potentially bulging, expanding and cracking over time. This can heavily compromise the integrity and safety of the structure of your property and must be identified quickly.

Asbestos

Banned in 1999 due to its potential threat to human life, asbestos was once a commonly used building material, with many properties still withholding many asbestos properties within it. If asbestos is ever found on your property, particularly in the case of a structural survey, you must contact a specialist to remove it immediately.

Japanese Knotweed

Capable of producing thick, invasive and extensive roots, Japanese knotweed is a clump-forming plant that grows rapidly, causing potentially serious structural damage to your property, as it targets the weak structural points of the building during growth. If Japanese knotweed has become a serious issue, it’s important to contact a specialist knotweed removal service, who will decide upon the appropriate removal and treatment plan.

Electrical Issues

A common problem picked up in structural surveys, electrical issues can wreak havoc on a household, ranging from minor, fixable issues to a complete rewiring of the property. Whenever you pick up on any potential electrical issue, contacting a professional electrician is absolutely essential, as they will provide the repairs required, in a safe and controlled manner. Costs of electrical fixes can vary massively depending on the nature and intricacy of the work, or even the location of your home.

Drainage Problems

Faulty pipes can cause a vast array of problems, ranging from drainage problems, water pooling and even serious or extensive water damage, which can have a lasting impact on the structural integrity of your property. Poor drainage at home will usually present itself through the emergence of damp walls or bad smells and should be assessed by a specialist drainage professional to diagnose the issue further.

Damaged Roofing

Ranging from small issues, such as cracked or faulty tiling, blocked guttering and the emergence of dampness, right through to serious structural issues resulting in instability, damaged roofing plays a huge role in the structural integrity of your property.

Infestation

Woodworm infestation is common among period homes, barns, or timber structures and can cause serious damage if not treated effectively and urgently. It’s important to have this issue assessed immediately should there be a risk of woodworm identified on a structural survey, with a timber treatment specialist required for a full assessment. In similar terms, an infestation of aggressive beetles such as the House Longhorn or the Deathwatch Beetle will require professional treatment at the nearest opportunity.

Insulation

When homes are placed on the property market, they are typically required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to provide evidence of their thermal capabilities before they are placed on the market for sale. Structural surveys will identify potential issues with insulation, such as missing or damaged insulation within the property, and provide suggestions if necessary.

What Happens Next?

As suggested, once the structural survey is finished, the structural engineer will produce a report within five to ten days of completion. Reports provided by the structural engineer usually help identify the severity and urgency of particular issues by ranking them using a traffic light system, helping you to decide where your priorities lie. If problems do arise, you must now make the alterations and maintenance work that may be required and resolve them, before you make contact with interested parties and proceed with a sale.

Simon Levy Associates - Chartered Building Surveyors in Borehamwood, Watford and Greater London

At Simon Levy Associates we understand buying a new property is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime - so it’s important that the property has been professionally surveyed before you make the big purchase. If you buy a property with lots of issues, you could end up spending thousands of pounds on repairs and maintenance that could otherwise be avoided.

As one of the best building survey consultants across Hertfordshire, we deliver comprehensive, professional advice on all building-related matters to our clients. We manage the business with integrity and honesty to the high ethical and professional standards expected of chartered architects and chartered surveyors. Contact us today.

How to Prepare for a Building Survey

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 09:09:44 GMT

Arranging a building survey is a normal part of the process when buying or selling a property, so there’s no need to worry yourself over it. Nonetheless, this can be a very stressful time for prospective and existing homeowners, especially if you’re a first-time buyer.

To help set your mind at ease and to make the survey process as quick and as smooth as possible, there are a few things you can do to prepare ahead of your building surveyor’s arrival. This blog from Simon Levy Associates covers a few of the main ways you can prepare for your building survey.

Make the property as accessible as possible

To provide the surveyor with as much space and time as possible, try to ensure that the house is accessible and disruption-free. If you have any children or pets, it can be a good idea to arrange for them to stay with a friend or family whilst the survey is being carried out.

All keys should be kept handy, such as the ones used to open windows or garages. Surveys also require access to the attic and basement where applicable, so you should ensure that they’re accessible. You should also clear all windowsills and mantelpieces in order to provide quick and easy access during the survey. This means removing things like plants, candles, ornaments, photographs and any other items. To boost accessibility, keep all large furniture away from walls so that the surveyor can inspect them easily and without delay. Make sure there is still a clear and easy path around your property, in order to avoid confusion or accidents.

Keep any relevant documents handy

To make your survey as efficient as possible, you should find and copy any necessary documents beforehand so that they’re ready to be viewed and handed over if required. Documents like a Planning Permission Notice or Energy Performance Certificate can help you get better results when selling your property.

Other certificates that would be useful to have on hand are a current Electrical Test Certificate, Gas Safety Certificate or a Building Regulation Completion Certificate.

Give your property a good clean

Cleaning your property is vital when preparing for a survey. Simple steps like cleaning and decluttering can add value to your home, and they will also allow your surveyor easy access to all areas. Make sure that all carpets have been thoroughly cleaned, especially if you have small children or pets. Tidy up any mess or clutter and ensure that you’ve created a clear path through the property - major obstructions could delay or even terminate the inspection.

Check the outside of your property

Inspecting the outside of your property is just as important as inspecting the inside. This involves things like inspecting the roof for missing tiles or cracks and checking for leaks or blockages. You should also pay attention to your garden, as some plants can cause property damage or even pose a health risk to humans and animals. The building surveyor will almost certainly inspect your garden for signs of such vegetation.

If you need a building survey in Barnet or the surrounding areas, Simon Levy Associates can help. Our team will be able to identify any problems so that you can make an informed decision about whether to proceed. Contact us today to book your appointment.

The Role of a Surveyor in an Insurance Claim

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 08:58:00 GMT

If you make a claim on your home insurance, your insurance company will follow a number of steps in order to decide how much compensation you should be paid, if any. This process will involve investigating and validating the claim, assessing the total loss caused - for example, the amount of damage a fire or flood has caused to your property - and calculating the costs incurred due to this damage.

The complexity of insurance claims means a number of other people may become involved at various stages in the process, especially if the property needs a lot of work or there is some kind of dispute. One such person is a surveyor. This blog from Simon Levy Associates outlines the role of a surveyor in home insurance claim cases.

What does a surveyor do during an insurance claim?

In the event of a home insurance claim, a surveyor may be sent to assess the damage to your property. This will be done prior to any repairs being carried out. Their role is essentially to carry out a physical examination of the damaged property in order to assess the loss suffered and action needed to repair the damage.

The surveyor will then prepare a ‘schedule of works’ report, which is presented to the insurance company and be put out to tender. Contractors will be given the opportunity to bid for the work and, so long as the contractor’s bid is competitive, the homeowner will be able to appoint the firm they are most comfortable with.

Appointing a surveyor

The surveyor should act independently of the insurance company and offer impartial guidance on any action required. While in many cases your surveyor will be appointed by the insurance company, it is ultimately up to you who works on your property. For the purposes of impartiality, we recommend that you find and appoint your own surveyor.

There is no obligation to appoint your own surveyor, but doing so can give you peace of mind. It can go a long way to help ensure that the insurance company is abiding by their obligations, acting fairly and in accordance with external regulations, and that the work carried out at your property is of the highest standard.

If you’re making a claim on your home insurance, Simon Levy Associates can help you get the result you deserve. Our trustworthy and reliable team can assist you in liaising with the insurance company, as well as specifying the appropriate scope and quality of repair work to be carried out and ensuring that any necessary work is administered, overseen, and certified. We’re committed to making your home insurance claim as straightfoward as possible. Get in touch today to find out more.

What You Need to Know About Unsupported Chimney Stacks

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 08:43:38 GMT

If you’re looking to buy an older property, it’s likely that it will boast at least one fireplace and chimney. It’s also possible that the house will have undergone various structural changes or renovations over the years. One such change could be the removal of a chimney stack, which is often done to create more useable floor space in a room.

It’s a good idea to get a building survey carried out on the property you’re hoping to buy, especially in cases where a chimney breast or stack has been removed. The survey will be able to determine whether the structural support put in place of the chimney stack is adequate and whether there’s any risk of an unsupported chimney stack causing harm or damage.

This blog from Simon Levy Associates tells you what you need to know about buying a property that may have unsupported chimney stacks.

A brief history

Victorian properties were constructed at a time when there was no gas central heating available, meaning houses had to be heated through a network of fireplaces located throughout the property. Since the introduction of gas central heating, fireplaces have become mostly redundant, though many properties retain the use of at least one ground floor fireplace that has been adapted for gas heating.

As many fireplaces became redundant, homeowners increasingly decided to make use of the space taken up by the fireplaces located on upper floors. Many older properties have therefore had their fireplaces removed which can result in an unsupported chimney stack if the rest of the fireplace or chimney network is left untouched.

The dangers of an unsupported chimney stack

If a section of the chimney stack has been removed, the chimney stack still remains intact on higher floors or within the roof space, though it is now not being supported from beneath. The main danger that this poses is that several tonnes of masonry could collapse, potentially injuring occupants below or possibly even causing fatalities.

Of course, even if all residents remain safe and well, there will be significant damage to the property and they will likely need to relocate temporarily and fork out a large sum of money for repairs.

Providing the right structural support

If a property does have an unsupported chimney stack, it’s advisable to implement one of two options. Either the chimney breast in the roof space must be removed, or it must be provided with additional structural support to make up for the removed chimney breast on the lower floor.

This structural work will usually involve the addition of what is known as a gallows bracket, which is essentially two metal angle supports that are fixed to the brickwork, often with a concrete lintel spanning between them. The lintel holds the roof space’s chimney breast in position.

Checking that your prospective property’s chimney stacks are properly supported is a vital part of any professional building survey . In this case, enlisting the help of a building surveyor could be the difference between life and death.

For chimney stack inspections and a range of other building survey services in Borehamwood, Barnet and Watford, choose Simon Levy Associates . With well over 30 years of experience, our team of chartered building surveyors are qualified to undertake a comprehensive examination of your potential new home using specialist surveying equipment. Contact us for more information about our services or to book your professional building survey today.

3 Questions to Ask Yourself When House Hunting

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 12:42:24 GMT

Most sellers are reliable and operate above board, but there’s bound to be the odd few that employ sneaky tactics in an attempt to trick prospective buyers into buying. While sometimes these tricks are relatively harmless - for instance, baking bread and brewing coffee to entice viewers - there are some vendors who will go a step too far, such as placing picture frames over defects or covering up signs of damp and mould.

In order to avoid falling victim to such deception, it’s important to be curious and inquisitive during property viewings - particularly if you’re thinking of going ahead with the purchase. This blog from Simon Levy Associates provides some key questions you should ask yourself when house hunting.

Has the property been redecorated recently?

While it’s understandable that sellers want to make their property as appealing as possible and increase their sale price, there are some instances where excessive redecoration suggests they are trying to hide something, particularly if it’s been done last minute. Redecoration might be done to cover up stains from mould and damp. Alternatively, it could be to hide cracks in walls and/or gaps around windows and doors, which can be tell-tale signs of more serious structural issues like subsidence (i.e. the land is gradually caving in or sinking). If left unchecked, subsidence can be extremely costly to correct and also cause a property to become too dangerous to live in.

Do they have the heating on but windows open?

This tactic is especially common during the colder months or in the lead up to spring. If the property you are viewing has the heating on full blast and all the windows open, it could be completely innocent. Alternatively, the vendor could be trying to remove or at the very least reduce signs of damp. Damp is a serious issue that can cause rot and mould to grow and can even cause health problems. It can sometimes also be a bit of a nightmare to fix, especially if it’s caused by other issues with the property such as poor insulation or insufficient ventilation.

Is there anything else I’m purposefully not being shown?

Is the estate agent or seller only holding viewings at a certain time of day? If so, they might be trying to hide noise issues or other nuisances in the area, such as nearby schools, rush hour traffic, or even difficult neighbours. Similarly, if the person showing you around the property is trying to discourage you from viewing a particular part of the house or actively forbidding it, this might be an indication that there is something they don’t want you to see - i.e. a potential deterrent. This could be blocking off attic hatches to prevent you from seeing problems with the roof or insulation or claiming that they don’t have the right key to unlock certain doors.

In order to avoid disappointment once it’s already too late, why not hire a chartered building surveyor to check that everything is in order with your desired property? The team at Simon Levy Associates will be able to carry out a full building survey to not only identify problems but also find the root cause. We’ll ensure that you can make an informed decision about whether to proceed. Contact us today to book your appointment.

Choosing the Right Building Surveyor for a Historic Property

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 12:33:18 GMT

Choosing a surveyor that is right for you and your chosen property is key. It goes without saying that you’ll want a surveyor with all the necessary qualifications and experience but, if the property is unconventional or unique in any way, you might want to consider finding one with more specialised knowledge.

Whether you have your heart set on an ornate listed building, a quaint thatched cottage, a Victorian terrace or a country manor, the surveying skills involved differ greatly from those needed for your average modern property. This blog outlines some of the main criteria you need to consider when choosing the right building surveyor for a historic property.

Professional qualifications

We recommend that your chosen surveyor should be registered with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or another professional body in the industry. RICS surveyors are bound to a strict code of conduct and are subject to rigorous disciplinary, complaints and arbitration procedures to ensure they consistently provide high-quality service and uphold professionality at all times.

There is a specific accreditation available through RICS for any building surveyors wanting to work with historic properties, known as the Building Conservation Accreditation. This is certainly something to look for when choosing a surveyor for your prospective old property. When looking for a surveyor, particularly for an old property, it’s important to research their past projects (as well as their qualifications) to ascertain whether they’re going to be a suitable choice for your property.

Available services

There are all sorts of different survey types out there for residential properties, which can get confusing if you’re unfamiliar with the industry. RICS surveyors typically offer 3 levels of home survey: RICS Condition Report, RICS Home Buyer Report or RICS Building Survey.

The latter is the most comprehensive and is aimed at larger or older properties, or where major works are planned. It provides a detailed analysis of the building’s condition and includes advice on defects, repairs, and maintenance. RICS reports follow a simple and user-friendly template, with a clear structure and a numbered and/or colour-coded rating system.

While this type of report can be helpful, historic buildings require a little more detail and personalisation - after all, no two historic buildings are the same. The report you get should take into account the property’s size, age, condition, unique characteristics and methods of construction.

Specialised knowledge

You should also choose a surveyor with specialised knowledge of historic or listed property surveys. Some surveyors may also specialise based on materials used, the type of old building, or the construction methods used. This knowledge can be invaluable in surveying historic buildings.

Here are some things to consider when choosing a specialist surveyor:

● Do they have advanced knowledge of traditional building materials, such as lime mortar, timber framing, traditional plasters, linseed paints?

● Do they have all the advanced tools (and extensive knowledge of said tools) needed for surveying historic buildings?

● Are they a member of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation (IHBC) or actively involved with building conservation organisations like Historic England, Historic Environment Scotland, Cadw, The Landmark Trust, or English Heritage?

Finding the right building surveyor can keep your dream property from becoming a nightmare. Simon Levy Associates offers a full building survey carried out by Simon Levy FRICS MAE himself. This is designed to not only identify problems but also find the root cause, so you know exactly what you’re dealing with. Contact us today to book your appointment.

Common Building Surveyor Terms Explained

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 12:31:10 GMT

Buying a home is a substantial investment, so you’ll want to make sure you’ve carried out all the necessary checks before proceeding. However, unless you know a thing or two about building surveys, the terminology can get a little confusing.

This jargon-busting blog from Simon Levy Associates is here to help. Keep reading to find out exactly what all those terms mean for you and your property.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a natural fibrous mineral that was commonly used as a form of insulation between the 1950s and 1980s. Disturbed or damaged asbestos is known to be harmful when inhaled. A building surveyor will be able to identify its presence.

Benching

This is the name for concrete that is used to fill the gaps between drainage channels and brickwork. It is always smoothly sloped to prevent a build-up of sewage, water, or vermin.

Boundary disputes

A boundary dispute is a disagreement with a neighbour as to where the boundaries for each property begin/end. A surveyor can help you establish the boundaries before purchase and avoid any future disputes.

Damp

Damp is simply excess moisture in a building’s structure. It is usually caused by condensation, heavy rainfall or a leak. Damp can cause mould and rot to grow on walls, which not only looks unsightly but can also have health impacts.

Dilapidations

This is the maintenance and repairs needed to restore a property to its original state. It usually relates to cosmetic damage rather than structural damage or other serious defects.

Dry rot

Dry rot is a fungus that attacks the property’s structure and causes wood to rot, usually as a result of poor ventilation and high humidity levels. It can cause significant structural damage.

Gazumping

While this might sound like total nonsense, ‘gazumping’ refers to a property seller who verbally agrees a sale with one buyer but accepts a higher offer from someone else at the last minute.

Party wall

A party wall is a wall that separates properties owned by different parties. Party wall disputes are one of the most common types of boundary dispute, especially when one of the parties is planning a renovation project. A building surveyor can make you aware of any party walls and help you avoid conflict.

Rising damp

Rising damp refers to excess moisture which rises up the walls and floors from the ground beneath a property. Most commonly found in older buildings, rising damp can lead to decaying skirting boards, black mould, and damp patches.

Subsidence

This is when a building’s foundations start to sink due to the ground beneath the property caving in or sinking. Causes include poor ground, leaking pipes, extreme weather and soil type.

Underpinning

Underpinning is a construction technique designed to strengthen a property’s foundations, often used to tackle subsidence. It involves building a sturdier foundation underneath the original one.

Buying a new property is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime, so it’s important you know exactly what you’re dealing with. The expert team at Simon Levy Associates can carry out a full building survey on your prospective property and highlight any existing or potential issues before it’s too late. With over 30 years of experience, you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands. Contact us today to find out more.

Your Quick Guide to Subsidence

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 12:01:14 GMT

If you suspect a property you’re thinking of buying might have subsidence, we recommend getting a building survey by a qualified professional straight away. While it’s important to get a professional opinion, it can be helpful for you to know a little bit about what you might be dealing with. This quick guide from Simon Levy Associates tells you what you need to know about subsidence.

What is subsidence?

Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath or around a property sinks, causing its foundations to collapse and sink too. Unsurprisingly, this can cause the building’s structure and stability to weaken significantly.

What causes subsidence?

The causes of subsidence can vary, depending on the property and the land it’s on. Subsidence can also be caused by a combination of factors. Here are some of the most common reasons for it to occur.

Clay soil

Clay soil is usually around 30-35% water and so it expands or contracts very easily during dry or wet weather, or when plants in the area use up the moisture in the soil. Homes built on clay soil can, therefore, be more prone to subsidence.

Drainage system leaks

Burst pipes or leaking drains can cause the soil around or under your home to wash away or shift, reducing the support around your foundations and causing them to subside.

Alternatively, the ground can become so saturated that it becomes too soft to support the weight of the building, which can also cause subsidence.

Plant roots

Tree and shrub roots can cause subsidence by growing under your home in search of moisture and nutrients. These roots can directly cause foundation damage and they can also change the soil as they expand and contract due to moisture absorption.

Poor ground

It’s normal for the ground beneath the foundations to compact a little due to the weight of the building, but excessive soil compaction can lead to considerable downward movement of a property, which then causes subsidence. This often occurs where inappropriate materials were used during the laying of the foundations and the construction stage, or the ground material wasn’t sufficiently compacted before construction.

Signs of subsidence

Cracks are the most obvious and most common sign of subsidence. You don’t need to worry about every single crack you see, though - in most cases, they are completely harmless.

Some signs of subsidence include:

● Cracks wider than 3mm on interior and exterior brick walls

● Cracks that are wider at the top

● Diagonal cracks spreading across the wall

● Cracks around windows or doors

● Cracks that appear after prolonged dry weather

● Cracks that grow quickly

● Sinking floors (gaps and cracks in skirting)

● Noticeable leaning of the building

Buying a new property is one of the biggest investments you’ll make in your lifetime, so it’s important you know exactly what you’re dealing with. The expert team at Simon Levy Associates can carry out a full building survey on your prospective property and highlight any issues before it’s too late to change your mind. With over 30 years of experience, you can rest assured that you’re in safe hands. Contact us today to find out more.

All You Need To Know About Party Wall Agreements

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 11:59:00 GMT

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is an act that is used for resolving disputes between owners of neighbouring properties, where works are carried out that would affect the party wall. Before this, there was no set procedure for dealing with this, even though it was a frequent occurrence. This would often lead to expensive and long litigation for what was actually a quite straightforward matter to deal with.

But what is a party wall? Read on for all you need to know about party wall agreements.

What Is A Party Wall?

The first thing you need to know is the definition of a party wall, also known as a common wall or a demising wall. It is a dividing partition between two adjoining buildings that is shared by the occupants. This can be two residences, two businesses or a mix of the two. It is usually a structural and load-bearing wall, constructed along a property line with about half of the wall’s thickness on either side of it.

There are various possibilities for legal ownership of the wall, it could belong to both tenants, to one of the other, or partly to one and the other. This is why disputes usually occur when one party wishes to alter something to do with the party wall. You need to understand the impact that altering the wall will have on the other party.

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996

The Party Wall etc. Atc 1996 came into effect on the 1st of July 1997. It provided guidelines on how to prevent and resolve disputes concerning carrying out building works on party walls. It outlines that anyone intending to carry out work needs to give adjoining owners notice. The Act even applies to Crown, government and local authority-owned property.

The Act does not change who owns the wall or the position of the boundary but sets out what rights an owner has in relation to works to a party wall. It also can’t be used to settle a boundary dispute. It should be noted the Act only applies to England and Wales, not to Scotland or Northern Ireland. In these countries, a boundary wall is considered to have an invisible line down the middle, with each party owning half. The law in Scotland and Wales states both have a common interest in the wall, so each owner is entitled to use his share of the wall as he likes as long as it does not negatively impact the wall as a whole. Therefore there is no obligation to give notice when completing building works, but if a dispute arises, the owners can go to court to resolve it.

Party Walls & Building Works

But in England and Wales, if you want to carry out any building work near or on your shared property boundary, you must tell your neighbours. This includes building on the boundary, work on the existing structure or digging below and near to the foundation level of their property. Examples of work you might be doing are building a new wall, cutting into a party wall, removing chimneys, knocking down and rebuilding a party wall or making a party wall taller, shorter or deeper. You don’t need to tell your neighbour about minor changes you are making such as putting up shelves, adding or replacing electrical wiring or plastering.

While your neighbours can’t stop you from making lawful changes, they can affect when and how your works are going to be carried out.

Who Pays For The Work

If you are the one who initiated work on the party wall, you need to pay for any building works carried out. Your neighbour may have to contribute to the work if it is because of defects or lack of repair. They will also need to pay if they ask for additional building works that would benefit them. If you can’t agree on who needs to pay, an appointed surveyor will be able to help resolve this.

Notice & Agreements

If you are planning on carrying out any building works, you must give notice to your neighbour between 2 months and a year before you plan to start building work. This should include exactly what you’re planning to do.

It is recommended to talk to your neighbour in person first so you can properly explain, rather than surprise them with a formal notice. This could anger them if they feel the changes have been sprung on them and cause them to be resistant. If you do agree, make sure any agreement you reach is in writing to make it a formal document that can be later referenced if there are any issues. If you’re unsure what to put in a notice letter, there are examples online here . These will help the agreement be as lawful as possible, using documentation specifically designed to cover

Once you’ve given your neighbours notice they can give consent in writing, in which case the building works may begin without any issue. They can also serve a counter-notice, requesting additional work to be done at the same time. If these works benefit them, they will have to pay for them. The third option is that they can refuse consent, which will start the dispute resolution process. If they consent to the work, your neighbours must let you know in writing within 14 days if they consent to your notice, and the same amount of days if you consent to their counter-notice. The original counter-notice they give you must be served within a month of the first notice. It should be noted that your neighbour needs to respond to the notice, no response is not consent.

If You Can’t Agree

If you and your neighbour do not agree over the party wall works, you must appoint a surveyor to help resolve the dispute. You can either appoint a surveyor together or each appoint your own to assist you. You cannot act as your own surveyor in these issues and you can appoint a surveyor on behalf of your neighbour if they fail or refuse to do so themselves. The surveyor or surveyors will then agree on a ‘party wall award’ which is a legal document drawn up to say what work is happening; how and when it will be carried out; who will pay for which part and how much will be paid in total. This will include the surveyor fees. The party wall award is usually final and binding, however, if you don’t agree with the outcome of the award, you can appeal at a county court within 14 days of receiving it. You’ll need to file an appellant's notice to explain why you’re appealing.

Works Begin

When works begin you must strive to protect your neighbour's property from damage caused by the works, and fix or pay to fix for any damage that is caused. If the building works involve accessing your neighbour's property, your neighbour must allow them to access their property during usual working hours. For this, they must be given at least 14 days notice.

Simon Levy Associates

If you need a highly experienced party wall consultant in Borehamwood and across the home counties, get in touch with the team as Simon Levy Associates . Simon Levy himself is an expert party wall consultant who has provided expert witness services in a range of highly complex part wall disputes.

He is a member of the Pyramus & Thisbe Club , an elite group of surveyors, lawyers and engineers who are all experts in party wall matters. This club works to advance knowledge of party wall legislation and to promote best professional practice in its application. Its unique name comes from Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream where the two lovers Pyramus & Thisbe are separated by a wall. The club played a vital role in the framing of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and has continued to promote party wall issues to this day.

Simon Levy Associates has over 30 years of experience, providing a qualified and reliable team of surveyors who pride themselves on their exceptional work. So if you need assistance in reaching a party wall agreement, or just want to know more about how you can alter your party wall, give us a call now on 020 8207 6100. We don’t just solve party wall matters, so visit our website now to find out the range of professional services we offer including structural surveys, expert witnesses and building defect diagnosis.

5 Reasons You May Have a Construction Dispute

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 11:44:08 GMT

There are a lot of moving parts to construction projects which can mean that they don’t always meet deadlines or stay on budget. Whenever this happens, there may be a breakdown between all the parties involved. Construction disputes can happen for a number of reasons.

Poor Quality of Work

In an industry where time is very important, corners are sometimes cut in order to get the project done on time and on budget. This means that the quality of work is not as great as it ought to be. When this happens, it is important to document the work done with photographs and videos. Make sure there are time stamps on those photos and videos to clearly display the date they were taken.

Delays in Schedule

Schedule delays are inevitable in the construction industry, as any contractor knows. When those delays continue to stretch on and there is no end in sight, frustrations build and a dispute may arise. Communication is key here. Everyone involved should keep each other informed of any changes in the schedule and the reasons behind the change.

Payment Disputes

There are many reasons why a project can end up costing more than originally planned and this often makes way for disputes regarding payment and budget. Work may come to a standstill while the two parties attempt to find a solution. A construction dispute consultant may be a good choice so you may resolve the issue and ensure that everyone upholds their end of the contract.

Breach of Contract

Breach of contract is one of the most common construction disputes. This happens when one of the parties doesn’t complete their part in the contract. This could be anything from not paying the agreed-upon amount, failure to deliver within the contracted time frame or it could even involve the quality of work and materials used.

Poor Communication

Everyone involved in the construction needs to stay in sync during the project or there may be a breakdown in communication. Although there are always adjustments and changes occurring during a construction build, these issues must be communicated. Lack of communication can create a lot of animosity and mistrust. Once the trust is gone, it will be very difficult to earn it back without the help of an outside source.

If you are experiencing a construction dispute, the best way to resolve it is to work with a construction dispute consultant to help mediate and resolve the issue before it becomes even more complicated. Contact Simon Levy for more information on how this works.

How to Find an Expert Witness for Your Property Dispute

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 11:36:57 GMT

Finding the right expert witness for your property dispute can mean the difference between winning and losing the fight. It’s essential you find the perfect person for the job.

It can be difficult to find the right person to serve as your expert witness, particularly if you’ve never done this before. Ideally, you want someone who is very familiar with the type of situation you are in. Here are a few things that you should consider when finding the right expert for your case:

They Have the Right Credentials

If you need a specialised witness, ensure they have the right credentials for the job. The courts will take their thoughts on the situation more seriously if they have the experience and credentials to prove their expertise.

They’re Impartial

It may be tempting to ask your friend who works in the field to be an expert witness for you. Although that may be cheaper, it can really hurt your case as they’re too close to you. Finding a witness who is completely impartial will help your case credibility. Use a firm to find an expert witness for your case to speed up the process and ensure you have an impartial witness. They will be able to do background checks on the witness to make sure they don’t have any ties to either side of the dispute.

They Understand How the Court Works

A witness who has at least a little understanding of how courts work will find it easier to navigate the questions asked. They should be comfortable working with solicitors and will add to your case. The court will notice how comfortable the witness is in front of the court and this can affect your case positively. While it has no bearing on their expertise, first impressions do count.

They Are Confident Speakers

Although someone can be an expert in their field, they may not be comfortable with speaking in front of people. It’s important to find someone who is comfortable speaking with authority in front of a crowd. They need to be confident when they are explaining everything, as this will affect their credibility. Someone who stammers out a few facts or seems hesitant about their topic will not inspire confidence. It can be a daunting task to find an expert witness for your property. It may feel overwhelming and you may not know where to begin looking.

Need an expert witness for your property dispute? Contact Simon Levy to find the perfect expert for your needs.

What to Look for When Choosing Property Insurance

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 11:34:27 GMT

It can be daunting to find the right property insurance if you don’t know what to look for. It may be tempting to go with the cheapest option, but you must ensure your coverage will take care of you. Cheaper isn’t always the best option. When choosing a property insurance provider, take the time to research the company as well as the policy so you know exactly what is covered.

Types of Insurance

Most property insurance falls into two categories. Buildings insurance and contents insurance. Buildings insurance covers anything that might have to do with the structure of the building or the fixtures within. Things like damage caused by a leaky faucet or a fire that affects the structure is covered under buildings insurance. Contents insurance would cover your belongings inside the house.

How Much Coverage Do You Need?

Often when people assess what their belongings are worth, they underestimate the value. Working with an expert can ensure you get the correct valuation. They can help you assess the cost of replacing everything that you own, rather than the worth of each item.

Coverage For the Right Things

It’s a good idea to talk with insurance experts to avoid paying for insurance you don’t need. Some coverage simply isn’t necessary for everyone and it will depend on where you live and how you live. If your home is on the side of a mountain, you don’t need tsunami coverage, for example. Carefully examine the policy and have anything you don’t require taken out, to get the best price.

Customer Service

Something else that is just as important as the coverage itself is the insurance claim process and the speed at which repairs are handled. Find an insurance company that doesn’t draw out the process of making a claim. They should provide the help you need when you need it. You can learn more about an insurance company by looking at their reviews.

You cannot predict when disasters strike, but you can ensure you are financially covered if the unthinkable happens. Take the time to really look into each policy and read the fine print. It will help you make the best decision for you and your family.

If you’re looking for property insurance and need to know more about it, you can contact Simon Levy for more information. We’re happy to answer your questions and help you find the best insurance policy to fit your needs.

Why You May Need a Chartered Building Surveyor

Wed, 23 Feb 2022 11:32:53 GMT

There are several reasons you need a chartered building surveyor. You can hire one to check out your building or property at any point, but there are specific reasons you’ll need to hire one.

Here’s all you need to know.

Know Before You Buy

When you buy a new property, it is important to know that the building you are purchasing is a good investment. When you purchase without using a chartered building surveyor, you run the risk of buying something that will end up needing a lot of expensive work later. For most people, buying a property is the largest purchase of their life. You can save yourself some expensive repairs by having the building surveyed so you know exactly what you’re getting into. If too many repairs are needed, you can look for a better option.

New Build Sign Off

When you are ready to sign off on a new building, have a surveyor do an inspection. They will make sure that the quality of the build is sufficient. The surveyor will notice if anything has been done poorly or left incomplete, due to timeline issues or budget. These details may cause many more expenses later on.

Surveying Before You Find Tenants

When you are a new landlord, it’s a good idea to get a building surveyor in to check for potential building issues. This can help when finding tenants, as you can prove the building is problem-free. It will also come in handy if there is ever a dispute with your tenant. If there is a dispute, you can show the surveyor’s report to prove any damage has been done during the tenancy. This makes it quick and easy to resolve the problem, which could otherwise be a costly issue.

Before You Alter Your Home

Planning to change something in your home? Depending on where you live, you may need an assessment by a chartered building surveyor to obtain planning permission. The surveyor can also help uncover any issues that could interrupt the construction process and ensure that any alterations won’t cause any damage to the structure. If there are any problem areas, the contractor can work around them and ensure the building is properly prepared or the issue resolved before they begin building.

Whether your home is completely new or just new to you, a building surveyor can give you peace of mind. Contact Simon Levy to schedule your building survey today.

How To Obtain Planning Permission

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 12:46:50 GMT

Provided by your local council, planning permission is essential in the continuation of a construction project, and unless granted, work cannot begin. As the property owner, it is your responsibility to secure planning permission well in advance of any commencement of work. Obtaining planning permission can very easily come down to the level of preparation work you have performed and the accuracy of your architectural designs, so preparation really is everything. Here, we take a closer look at some of the most important factors considered when obtaining planning permission.

Perfect Your Design

The first hurdle you’ll need to get past to obtain planning permission is to have a quality design in place. The design will need to be completed long before any physical work is due to begin and should effectively balance the ambition of your specifications with practicality, to convince local authorities that your plans are realistic, safe and in line with the surrounding architecture. It’s advisable to hire the services of a professional architecture firm that specialises in the approval of planning permissions at this stage, to ensure you have the best possible chance of having your designs approved at the earliest opportunity.

Do Your Research

When planning your design project, it’s important to understand the unique policies provided by your Local Planning Authority. With any planning permission proposal, there are a select number of stipulations that your Local Planning Authority will place under consideration to decide if your proposal can be approved. Below are just some of the key considerations Local Planning Authorities will make when assessing a planning proposal:

● Loss of Sunlight

● Noise or Disturbances

● Smell of Fumes

● Loss of Trees

● Effect on Conservation

● Impact on Traffic/Highway Safety

Of course, not all of these issues will be directly related to your individual proposal, but the role of a qualified planning officer is to carry out research and identify which of these material planning considerations will be most impacted, potentially affecting your design plan.

Hire The Best

Hiring a skilled planning consultant or architecture firm to guide you through the process and handle any technical issues that may arise during the application process will provide you with the expertise you require to ensure your proposal is neither delayed nor denied. Technical reviews may be required as part of your proposals, such as flood risk assessments, tree surveys and archaeological investigations, and these require expert insider knowledge to complete.

Do you need professional help and advice with your planning application ? At Simon Levy Associates we’ve provided expert property advice for clients in Borehamwood, Barnet, Watford and the Home Counties for over 30 years. Delivering comprehensive, professional advice on all building-related matters to our clients, we manage the business with integrity and honesty to the high ethical and professional standards expected of chartered architects and chartered surveyors. Contact us today.

The Advantages of Property Insurance

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 12:38:15 GMT

As an owner of a home, commercial building or property, the importance of obtaining an insurance policy cannot be overstated. In order to protect you from incurring the costs that will result from severe property damage, destruction of contents or a liability claim, property insurance is absolutely essential. Here, we look at four key advantages of obtaining property insurance:

Protection

The most obvious reason to acquire property insurance is to protect your home, commercial property or building in the event of extensive damage. Most insurance policies will insure your home at 100% of its value, but anything above 80% is considered fairly standard. Should a serious fire happen on your property, for example, an insurance policy that covers the entire value of the property is fairly essential, covering you for a complete loss of structure that cannot be repaired. Many insurance policies will also provide coverage for detached structures related to your property, including, garages, sheds, fences and even the dog house, and can be customised to suit your necessary requirements with your premium adjusted accordingly.

Obtaining property insurance is crucial in the protection of the contents of your home, building or commercial property. This typically includes all appliances, furniture, electronics and some personal possessions, (if covered by your policy). In the event of property damage, dilapidation or destruction, content coverage will reimburse the costs of your contents, either in part or entirely, depending on the policy’s unique stipulations. Often, when we consider the importance of property insurance, we are thinking in external terms only, but it’s vitally important you seek a policy that provides at least some coverage for the all-important contents of your commercial building or domestic property.

Loss Of Use

As mentioned, should your property suffer damage severe enough to deem your property unfit for use, a solid insurance policy will help cover these excessive costs. Not only this, but many insurance policies will cover at least some of the cost of hotels, food and travel expenses for the duration of your properties repair.

Liability

Designed to cover you in the event someone is injured either at your property or because of it, liability coverage will protect you from facing expensive lawsuits or unreasonable blame. Should a roofing tile fall off your roof and strike a pedestrian, for example, liability coverage will protect you when you are being held responsible for an injury or incident that has taken place on your property.

At Simon Levy Associates we deliver comprehensive, professional advice on all building-related matters to our clients. We manage the business with integrity and honesty to the high ethical and professional standards expected of chartered architects and chartered surveyors. Contact us today.

Understanding Dilapidation Surveys For Landlords

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 12:23:51 GMT

Today, renting a property is increasingly common in the market, and as with any homeowner, tenants have a responsibility to look after their property, taking responsibility for any serious damage caused to come to the end of the lease. As always, wear and tear are expected, but there are some instances when severe structural defects, maintenance or repairs are required in order to restore the property to its original condition. As you move toward the end of your lease, your landlord will typically arrange for a dilapidation survey to be carried out, to ensure the tenant has maintained the property in accordance with the terms of the contract.

Dilapidation Surveys

At the beginning of your tenancy, a Schedule of Condition survey should be carried out to make note of the current condition of the property. This will act as a point of reference for both the tenant and the landlord when it comes to the end of the lease. When the lease is up, a dilapidation survey is carried out to identify any changes to the condition of the property under your tenancy. Should there be a dispute over the condition of the property later, this will act as a key reference point and form of evidence to refer back to. Backed up with both photographic and written evidence, a dilapidation survey will actively inform both the tenant and the landlord of the issues that have arisen during your lease.

Why Have One?

As a landlord, it can be extremely important when it comes to settling disputes between yourself and your tenant to have a dilapidation survey professionally carried out on the premises. Not only will this give you a much clearer idea of the maintenance, repairs and overall work required to restore the property to the original state, it will also hold your tenant to account, should they not fulfil their terms of the contract, leaving the property in a damaged or unrepaired state. In this instance, particularly with written and photographic evidence to confirm liability, the tenant will likely have to pay the damage costs themselves. Here are three key reasons to conduct a dilapidation survey:

Precaution

A Dilapidation Survey is an important precautionary measure to put in place as a landlord to ensure any damages caused by the tenant are accounted for. To avoid issues with liability, a professional survey will provide you with key evidence.

Condition

Carrying out both a Schedule of Condition survey and a Dilapidation Survey will provide clear evidence for any major contrasts between the beginning and the end of the tenancy agreement, thus indicating any damage caused to the condition of the property in that time.

Evidence

As suggested, a dilapidation survey will provide you with clear evidence in order for decisions to be made on liability should damage have occurred.

As one of the best dilapidation survey consultants across Hertfordshire, at Simon Levy Associates we deliver comprehensive, professional advice on all building-related matters to our clients. We manage the business with integrity and honesty to the high ethical and professional standards expected of chartered architects and chartered surveyors. Contact us today.

Understanding Structural Surveys

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 12:22:13 GMT

Let’s face it; buying a house is easily one of the most expensive and important purchases of our lives, and the last thing anyone wants is to move into a new home that’s riddled with endless issues, structural defects and desperate need of maintenance. This is why it’s so important to hire the expertise of a building survey consultant, to provide a professional opinion you can trust. In this post, we take a closer look at structural surveys, their importance and why you should have one carried out, long before you purchase a property.

What’s A Structural Survey?

Designed to provide expert analysis of the condition of a property, a structural survey is carried out on all visible and accessible parts of a building, including roofs, floors, windows, doors, chimneys, basements, garages and more. A surveyor will inspect your property, checking for considerable issues with your property, informing you of any issues that are causing issues, or may cause severe problems in the future.

Typically a full building survey will include the following:

● Thorough building inspection

● Completed survey report

● Property valuation

Structural surveys are especially effective for older properties, listed buildings, renovated homes, or homes you are considering renovating yourself, to ensure the stability, structure and safety of your project, as well as highlighting any issues that will have to be addressed before moving forward with the process.

Who Needs One?

In short, anyone planning on purchasing a property that is old, listed, recently renovated or in need of renovation should consider having a structural survey carried out by a professional. Structural surveys are essential, not only for the confirmation that your building type is strong, secure and without issues, but also to confirm plans for potential renovations or structural redesign. Moving forward with a project or renovation on your home without a survey report demonstrating the issues at hand could easily land you in hot water, as you waltz into a world of trouble that could so easily have been avoided.

How It Works

Usually taking most of the day to complete, a building structural survey will be carried out by the surveyor, before they file a report, making notes of potential issues, hazards or recommendations. The final report will identify and describe these issues in great detail, providing advice moving forward and offering up a rough estimate of cost. The cost of the survey will depend on the property type, size and location, as well as the possibility of further costs, spending on the severity of damage reported.

As one of the best building survey consultants across Hertfordshire, at Simon Levy Associates we deliver comprehensive, professional advice on all building-related matters to our clients. We manage the business with integrity and honesty to the high ethical and professional standards expected of chartered architects and chartered surveyors. Contact us today.

Five Ways To Resolve Construction Disputes

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 08:31:55 GMT

Despite the best efforts of everyone involved, not all construction projects go according to plan. In fact, it’s not uncommon for construction projects to continue past their initial deadline, which would also take the costs of the work well over budget. This can lead to some tricky conversations and potentially even disputes between a builder and their client.

Often a breakdown in the relationship between a builder and their client centres on the standards of workmanship or the costs of works. Unsurprisingly, this usually results in both sides playing the blame game. However, when drafting up a contract for a construction project, and in particular, the dispute resolution clause, there are several resolution types at your disposal.

Negotiation

A negotiation clause is in place to allow for just that: negotiation. The contract will include a specific clause in which, if a dispute were to arise between both parties, then a satisfactory compromise must be negotiated between themselves before moving forward either with the current project or a new one.

Mediation

A mediation clause allows for a neutral third party to be involved with the dispute solution in order to mediate the process of resolving the issue. Mediation is not legally binding but can be an incredibly effective solution for resolving disputes or citations that could otherwise turn south.

Adjudication

In mediation, the neutral third party is on hand to mediate others in finding resolutions in construction disputes. Adjudication works in a similar fashion, but unlike mediation, the decision is specifically made by an independent adjudicator instead of a third party assisting others in finding their own resolution.

Arbitration

In essence, in a lawsuit without the involvement of the courts, arbitration occurs when both parties submit their dispute to an independent arbitrator. Unlike mediation, arbitration allows for the arbitrator to issue verdicts that can affect the rights and obligations of the given parties. These decisions are legally binding.

Litigation

Litigation involves a trial and is legally binding and enforceable, though it can also be appealed. More often than not, litigation is the most thorough, complex, time-consuming and costly way of resolving a dispute. This is why parties will typically attempt a number of other resolution methods before opting for litigation.

Simon Levy Associates are members of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors as well as of the Academy of Experts. We pride ourselves on giving clients consistently excellent service wherever and whenever they need it. If you need professional help to reach a construction dispute resolution in Barnet, Watford or Borehamwood and the Home Counties as quickly as possible, we'll gladly arrange a consultation at a time that works with your busy schedule. Contact us today.

Understanding Party Wall Agreements

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 08:23:50 GMT

Need to make alterations to a party wall you share?

If you plan to build, amend, take out or extend a party wall, which tends to refer to a wall shared between two locations, or carry out certain excavations - you'll need a party wall surveyor to provide expert and impartial advice.

What’s A Party Wall?

In simple terms, a party wall divides the buildings of two owners with the boundary between ownerships usually, but not always, positioned at the centre of the wall. Section 20 of The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 recognises two different types of party walls:

Type A

A wall standing between the boundaries of land between two different owners, Type A party walls are usually found in walls separating terraced/semi-detached houses or walls that form the boundary between two gardens.

Type B

Type B party walls stand wholly on one owner’s land but are actually owned by at least two owners in order to separate their buildings from each other. Examples of this include where one neighbour has a building that relies structurally on a party wall that is owned by the other neighbour.

Do I Need One?

The following works require you to obtain a Party Wall Agreement:

● Any work to shared walls between semi-detached and terraced houses.

● Work involving shared party structures, such as floors between flats.

● Work to garden boundary walls.

● Excavation works close to, (within 3-6m), the party wall.

● Loft conversions that cut into a party wall.

● Inserting a damp proof course into a party wall.

● Making party walls thicker or higher.

● Building a second-storey extension above a shared wall.

● Building a new wall up to or off the party wall.

The Benefits

There are several benefits to negotiating a party wall agreement:

Prevent Delays

Obtaining the permission you need to get to work on your party wall alteration as quickly as possible will prevent any delays from occurring during the initial agreement process and moving forward.

Avoid Costly Legal Disputes

It's not uncommon for adjoining owners to raise issues relating to party wall matters, but a party wall agreement can help you reach an amicable compromise and prevent the need to go to court.

Understand Your Property's Condition

You don't need to risk causing damage to other aspects of your property when altering party walls because party wall surveyors can accurately assess your home's structural condition beforehand.

Simon Levy Associates are members of the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors as well as of the Academy of Experts. We’re a highly experienced party wall consultant who has provided administration and expert witness services in a range of highly complex party wall disputes where a certain skill set and knowledge is required. We pride ourselves on giving clients consistently excellent service wherever and whenever they need it. If you need professional help to reach a construction dispute resolution in Barnet, Watford or Borehamwood and the Home Counties as quickly as possible, we'll gladly arrange a consultation at a time that works with your busy schedule. Contact us today.

The Importance of Obtaining Property Insurance

Thu, 11 Nov 2021 08:18:35 GMT

When a property is severely damaged, whether by fire, flood or structural defect, seeking professional advice on how to put forward an insurance claim and gathering advice on the appropriate repairs that need to be carried out is essential. It’s vitally important that professional counsel is received at an early stage to ensure that the crucial steps are taken when moving forward with the claim.

Why Choose Property Insurance?

With time, all buildings will eventually suffer from defects, structural or otherwise, accidents or serious damage to some degree. Regardless of the levels of maintenance and care that have been given to the protection of your property, there is always the risk of serious hazards arising. If, for example, your building has been constructed in a way that is inherently defective, or there is a fire at your property causing irreparable damage, building insurance covers the cost of rebuilding your home or commercial property if it's damaged or destroyed.

It is a compulsory requirement when you’re planning to buy a property that you are insured, obtaining a mortgage on a home is often impossible without property insurance.

Buildings insurance [1] usually covers loss or damage caused by:

● fire, explosion, storms, floods, earthquakes

● theft, attempted theft and vandalism

● frozen and burst pipes

● fallen trees, lampposts, aerials or satellite dishes

● subsidence

● vehicle or aircraft collisions.

These are just some of the key areas in which property insurance companies will cover you for loss or damage and why it's so important to your business to have an insurance policy in place.

Do I Need Property Insurance?

In short; yes. Especially if you have a mortgage. As mentioned, it's increasingly difficult to obtain insurance coverage on a property that doesn't have a mortgage, one that's either covered by you, your landlord, or the business or landowner for commercial property. In this case, not only is it a vitally important safety net for you and your property, but it's also a necessary one.

It's important to make sure you insure yourself for the amount it would cost to completely rebuild your home. This is called the sum insured. The cost of rebuilding your home is not the same as the price you paid for your home, or its current value if you were to sell it. Rebuild costs are usually less than the current market value, so make sure you don't over or under insure yourself. Some policies work out the sum insured based on a general assessment of where you live and the type and age of your home. However, this may not fit your particular property, so you'll need to work out whether you've got enough cover. You should regularly review the amount your buildings insurance covers as rebuild costs tend to rise over time. Some insurers offer policies that will increase the sum insured automatically in line with rebuild costs.

Remember, if you improve your home, such as adding an extension or a loft conversion, the rebuild costs may also increase and you will need to make sure you're covered.

Here are some of the key reasons to consider property insurance:

Protection

The main function of property insurance is to offer protection for your house and its contents. The protection for your property covers all kinds of risks of damages caused by fire, natural disaster, or other factors. It also covers the risk of loss due to theft or other criminal acts, as well as other kinds of risk of disturbances.

Safety

The existence of property insurance protection against the uncertain risks of loss such as fire, natural disaster, theft, and so on surely gives you peace of mind and confidence as the owner of the assets. Should those risks occur and you suffer losses, the insurance company will surely give the appropriate compensation.

Low Cost

Imagine if your entire house building and its contents are burned down. You will surely suffer a huge amount of financial loss. The repair and replacement costs for all those properties are surely substantial. Property insurance gives compensation for that loss so that your financial condition remains protected.

Damage or Loss

Property insurance gives compensation for any damage or loss of your property. The term for compensation is that the loss is not caused by your own negligence. Should the risk of losses occur and cause you to lose your home, the property insurance can provide you with a temporary place to stay for free or compensate you for the temporary place’s rental fee.

What Does Property Insurance Cover?

Property insurance covers a range of topics, from personal possession loss or theft to severe structural damage. There are three key areas covered by property insurance that account for almost all claims:

Hazard Protection

Hazard protection covers the cost of a complete rebuild or repair of your main living structure should it be damaged in a covered event, such as a fire, hurricane or lightning storm. Hazard coverage also covers the cost of replacing personal belongings such as jewellery, furniture, clothes and electronics if they are stolen or destroyed.

Living Expenses

If you are asked to leave your property or home during an extensive period of repair or rebuild, some of your living costs may also be covered as part of your insurance policy.

Liability Coverage

Liability protection covers the costs of bodily injury or property damage caused by a member of your household, including your pets. In addition, it also covers the costs of medical bills caused by no-fault injuries that occur on your property.

Making A Claim

When making a claim on your property, it's essential that you are prepared, and have both your claim and your evidence to back it up ready in advance. Once you've done this, you'll want to call your insurer.

Remember, you'll have up to 180 days after the incident to make your claim, so gathering as much evidence in this time is vital, however, as with any insurance claim, the sooner you call your provider the better. Insurers tend to prefer handling large claims, particularly for commercial properties, as soon as possible, especially if the root cause is either flooding or fire. This is because delaying your claim could even worsen the damage to your property, potentially requiring further repair and disrupting your current claim.

As mentioned, gathering evidence is essential, and though it may be tempting to immediately clear up the mess any damage has left behind, you'll want to wait until the insurance company has assessed the damage themselves. Immediately after the event that has caused the damage, you should consider taking many photographs, as your insurer will request extensive detail concerning the damage caused, taking photos or videos here is incredibly useful in the event of a dispute during your claim. On a similar note, your insurance company will want to note exactly what you've lost, so nothing should be thrown away until after the assessment is carried out by the loss assessor.

Will Making a Claim Increase My Premium?

Understandably, it can be tough to know just how much of an impact making a claim can have on your insurance premium and this can end up becoming a major roadblock for some. As with any insurance, a recent claim, due to an accident or incident will result in an adjustment of your insurance price and because of the independent nature of each individual claim, it can't entirely be quantified just how much your premium will shift. Of course, less serious claims will always lead to less serious premium hikes, compared with a serious fire for example, but either way, your premium is likely to be affected.

Simon Levy Associates - Chartered Building Surveyors

At Simon Levy Associates, we can help you make a building insurance claim on a property in Borehamwood, Barnet or Watford. If you have noticed damage to your property and wish to find out the underlying cause, and seek help to specify the appropriate scope and quality of repair work to be carried out, please do not hesitate to get in touch [2] for a free informal chat.

Common Building Defects and How to Find Them

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 07:46:17 GMT

Before you buy or sell a building, you should be fully aware of any and all building defects. This means you need to do an inspection before you purchase or sell. In some cases, you may have inherited a property and need to know what issues it has. If that’s the case, then you’ll need to make sure you do a building defect diagnosis and come up with all the issues that need to be remedied.

What is a Building Defect Diagnosis?

When you need to know the condition of a building, you can hire a chartered building surveyor to go through the property and determine what issues it has. These will all be written up for you in a detailed report, which you can then use to determine whether you wish to buy the property or not.

If the building is your own, the list will give you plenty of details on what you must fix before you consider selling or using it. This type of survey is done to ensure the building is safe and secure for the next person to live or work in.

However, the defect survey will not just tell you what is wrong with the property. It will also attempt to determine the cause of the problem and suggest a way to fix it. This can be quite helpful when you’re attempting to solve the issue. If you know why there’s water damage, for example, it’s much easier to remedy the situation than if you simply find water damage and are unsure of where it’s coming from.

Common Building Defects

There are a number of building defects that appear in a large number of homes that are surveyed. You’ll want to be aware of these, as they may be a problem in your structure. These include:

Damp Penetration

Water damage is one of the main issues that is found in a home. It may be due to a wide variety of problems, including a leaking pipe inside the wall or floor, poor drainage, broken gutters, or even porous bricks or concrete. It may even be as simple as rain coming in under a window or door.

Water coming through the walls, floor, or ceiling can cause serious damage. It’s likely to ruin any plaster in the space and cause watermarks on the surfaces it affects. Any wood will be more likely to crumble and decay and it can also cause deterioration of brick structures.

As you can imagine, water damage is potentially very bad for your building, and it can be costly to repair. In many cases, the actual cause of the water is a simple repair, but the damage is has done is not.

Condensation

Perhaps the most common type of dampness in the UK is condensation damp. This affects roughly a fifth of the homes inspected and is due to condensation forming on the walls or windows and dripping down. This occurs when there’s a large amount of moisture in the air that touches a cold surface, such as a window or door and then condenses and drips.

The water damage from condensation is much like any other water damage, but it does tend to be localised to the area where the condensation formed. You’ll frequently notice mould growing on the areas below the window.

In most cases, repairing this issue simply involves reducing the amount of moisture in the home and ensuring that the windows are properly insulated. However, the water damage is the main issue and can be extremely difficult to clean up and repair.

In some cases, condensation forms inside the wall, creating what is called interstitial condensation. The danger here is that the water damage is usually inside the walls and may not be noticed until far more damage has been done. Many times, interstitial condensation goes unnoticed until you have a breakthrough of mould or water damage that comes through the wall.

Mould

Another potentially dangerous issue with many homes is mould. It tends to grow in areas that are warm and dark, as well as moist. When looking for mould, you should check in cupboards, particularly those under the sink, and in the basement. If there is any condensation in the home, the chances that you have mould are high.

Many people find that mould causes them to sneeze and cough more than usual. If you have allergies, they may be worsened by the presence of mould spores and it’s possible to make asthma worse, as well. For some, the spores may also cause respiratory infections. It can be quite dangerous to those who have weakened systems.

As soon as the surveyor finds mould, it must be dealt with, preferably by professionals. You don’t want to stir up the spores and the home must be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected. You’ll need to deal with the root cause of the problem, too, but it’s important to eliminate the mould as quickly as possible.

Sound Penetration

While sound penetration may not be as dangerous as mould or water damage, it can still be a serious problem. For most people, the noise can be difficult to sleep with and this may include a range of issues including neighbours blaring music, a factory nearby, or a train that runs past your building.

While you cannot completely eliminate sound in most cases, you can certainly reduce how much gets into your home by insulating the home well, using double glazed windows and sealing the doors. You may choose to install acoustic windows, which dampen the sound, as well.

Interior furnishings, such as heavy drapes, thick carpets, and soft furniture will also help mute the sounds that are coming in. Add plenty of insulation in the attic to prevent too much sound from getting through the roof and you will help your heating bill, too.

Subsidence and Other Movement

When the ground beneath the building settles or shifts, this can cause movement throughout the structure. It has devastating effects, including cracks up the walls and across the floors. This is a very common issue, particularly in homes with poor drainage around the home. You’ll need to keep trees away from your home and ensure that any water coming off the roof or from drainage pipes is routed away from the home to prevent the soil from becoming too saturated and causing movement.

In some cases, the foundation may be levelled out and repaired to prevent further shifting, but this isn’t always the case. There’s not much point in repairing cracks if they’re just going to get worse over time.

Distorted and Bulged Walls

If the surveyor finds walls that bulge out or are bowed, they will try to determine the cause of this issue. It may be due to excessive weight on the upper floors of the building or the walls may not be properly attached with a lateral restraint. It may be something you can fix with additional strapping and support for the walls.

The surveyor will examine the thickness of the wall, as well as how high it is and how it is built. The older the building, the less likely it is to have the proper restraints. In some cases, this is not repairable, and you may need to redo the entire wall.

Where to Find Chartered Building Surveyors

The right building surveyor will have the knowledge necessary to not only identify the problem in the building, but also to find the cause of the problem. Whether you’re trying to buy a property or just want to know what you have to add to your list of things to do with a relative’s old home, you have plenty of choices.

Ideally, you’ll want to look for a chartered building surveyor firm that offers several different surveyors. This ensures you will have someone available to you and someone with the necessary experience. The firm will check before they hire someone, and this can be a good way to get the best results from your survey.

Once you know what is wrong and why it’s happening, your next step will be making the necessary repairs. Once the building is safe, you can move on to either sell it or use it yourself.

Are you looking for a chartered building surveyor? At Simon Levy, we have the experts you need. Contact us now for an appointment.

5 Times You Need a Chartered Building Surveyor

Wed, 20 Oct 2021 07:13:06 GMT

A chartered building surveyor is someone who is involved in a wide variety of property and construction projects. They manage a number of jobs and it may be necessary to hire one at times. If you’re not sure when you might need a chartered building surveyor, here are a few instances that they can be useful:

1. You Need a Homeowner’s Survey

If you are planning to purchase a house, you’ll need a survey to determine the value of the property. If you need to get a mortgage on a property, this is a necessary step in the process and you may be turned down until you have made repairs or adjustments as needed.

2. You Need to Know What Work Must Be Done

Aside from the mortgage, you should be fully aware of what type of work is needed on the property. A survey can provide you with the necessary information and may even help you decide if you want to purchase the property or not.

3. You Need Help Dealing with Local Authorities

A chartered surveyor will have a good understanding of laws in the area and can be useful when dealing with authorities. As a landowner, particularly in a rural area, you’ll find it best to hire a chartered building surveyor to help determine how land should be used and what the value is. If you are running into issues with the local authorities, you’ll also want someone with the necessary knowledge on your side.

4. You Wish to Know How to Reduce Your Environmental Impact

Building anything will have an effect on the environment around you. A building surveyor will look at just how much of an impact your building project may have and advise you on how to reduce that impact. You may need to find a specialist surveyor who will manage this for you, but it can be helpful to have someone with the knowledge who can oversee your project.

5. You Want to Make the Best Use of Land

Do you have a property that you intend to build on and need to ensure you maximise your use of it? If you’re planning a large construction project, a building surveyor can help you create a plan with purpose. They will also help you work around potential problems on the land and create an eco-friendlier version of your building.

Do you need a chartered building surveyor? They’re quite useful for a variety of tasks, so you should consider hiring one if you plan to buy or develop any type of property. Contact Simon Levy for more information.

Should First Time Buyers Get a Housing Estate Property? The Advantages and Disadvantages

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 07:47:43 GMT

Buying a house is one of the most important decisions that you’ll make in your life. Not only will it determine your future but it will also, in large part, determine the early future of your children. Therefore, it’s important to get the house that’s most suitable for your requirements so you can get as much out of where you live as possible.

This guide outlines the advantages and disadvantages of buying a property in a housing estate in the context of rising house prices. Although it may be a more affordable, family-friendly option, it comes with design restrictions and the locations of housing estates can make life tricky.

Rising House Prices

Increasing house prices is not a new complaint. The March 2021 UK House Price Index confirms what everybody already knew was a very daunting picture. Before discussing housing estate options, it’s important to first understand the current state of house prices in the UK, especially for first-time buyers.

Whereas house prices had been on a fairly steady decline since mid-2015, the COVID-19 pandemic changed this. March 2021 saw UK house growth at its highest level since August 2007 with a 10.2% rise. However, this is house growth which fails to take into account the fact that house prices in real terms have been on a relentless increase since the 2009 recession, from just over £150,000 to just over £250,000.

Although the picture looks bleak, depending on your preferences, housing estates may be a great way to get yourself onto the property ladder in a more affordable and family-friendly area.

The Advantages of Living in a Housing Estate

Housing estates can be a great option for young families looking to establish themselves on the property ladder in a family-friendly area for the following reasons.

Family-friendly : Housing estates are popular with families because they’re often safer areas for children to play and interact with other children. Because a housing estate is a small community, everybody knows everybody, which increases the likelihood that your child will develop meaningful friendships. Plus, housing estates are often built with families in mind so they normally have parks, playgrounds, and playing fields incorporated into their design to promote this.

Seclusion : Specifically over the past two centuries, there has been a huge urbanisation drive toward the cities. Cities are where a lot of the jobs are and are often big social hubs, so you won’t want to miss out. However, if you’re not one for the hustle and bustle of the city then a housing estate may be a great intermediate. You can still access the benefits of the big city whilst retaining a level of exclusion and distance from city life.

Retirement and OAPs : It’s worth noting that, for the above two reasons, housing estates can be great options for those looking to retire or for an OAP relative. Being friendlier neighbourhoods that are secluded from the city, they can provide a lot of security for elderly individuals.

First-time buyers incentives : Housing estates are specifically built with affordability in mind as one of their most attractive features. In some areas where housing is emphasised, you may be eligible for special stamp duty discounts and government grants and loans , which can save you a lot of money. Developers will also offer low-deposit options for first-time owners seeing as they have many more houses at their disposal.

All of these incentives allow younger individuals, couples, and families to enter the housing ladder at a much earlier stage than would otherwise be possible. Compared to paying higher prices without incentives closer to the city, these factors can be real deal breakers for young families.

The Disadvantages of Living in a Housing Estate

Although there are some clear advantages to living in a housing estate, there are also some disadvantages that need to be weighed up.

Distance: Commuting : By their very nature, housing estates require large areas of land and this means that they’re rarely close to the city centre. Unless you can find one that is closer to the city centre then you’ll be faced with longer commuting times. On top of this, public transport is more awkward as there will likely be fewer services running to the estate or you’ll have to walk through the estate to get to a bus stop.

Then, for families, there’s the added complication of the pre-work school run. Housing estates are likely to be further away from your child’s school so it’ll take longer to do the school run. If your workplace is on the other side of the city then you could easily be making your commuting time an hour, maybe even more.

Distance: The little things : Public transport and school runs are macro factors but what about ‘popping to the shops’ for a few essentials for dinner? Similarly, what about when you get to the exit of the estate and you’ve forgotten your wallet or something similar? All of these small, everyday factors, can add up to a frustrating loss of time.

Design restrictions : Another drawback of buying a house in a housing estate is that you’ll be more limited in terms of what you can alter. It’ll be much more difficult to get the planning permission for extensions because once one house has approval, other houses will expect the same. Furthermore, recently-built housing estates will emphasise conservation and sustainability so design guidelines will severely limit what you can plant and what you can remove.

In addition, your home will be one of many doppelgangers. One of the benefits of buying a property outside of a housing estate is that you can buy one with some unique features. From driveways to front door styles, and roofing styles to house layout, there will be little to distinguish your house apart from its number.

Value uncertainty : Lastly, compared to regular homes, those in housing estates have a very limited market history so it’s difficult for you, and potential future buyers, to know what its future value may be. If you invest in a home in an area that depreciates in value then you may find it hard moving up the property ladder.

Why You Should Hire a Chartered Building Surveyor

In the face of soaring house prices, many young couples and families are looking toward housing estates for buying their first home. A common trap that many people fall into is presuming that, because the property has been built more recently, it’ll have fewer defects. In fact, it’s estimated that new-builds have between 50 and 150 defects and it goes without saying that this can bring harmful expenses further down the road. This is particularly problematic for young couples and families who have less capital at their disposal.

A good way to get around this potential issue is to hire a chartered building surveyor to assess the property you wish to buy. Not only will they be able to provide you with expert impartial advice on the above factors, but they will be able to:

● Examine the local geological survey map to assess relevant environmental factors like trees and hedges and any risks they may pose

● Examine the property for damp penetration and timber decay

● Assess external plumbing like guttering, downpipes, and soil pipes

● Check the condition of key fixtures and fittings around the property

● Assess the efficiency of the building’s services like gas, electricity, and water

● Check for any dilapidations from insulation failures to cavity wall damage.

For a relatively small fee, you can have peace of mind that there is nothing wrong with the property that could land you with large expenses in the near future.

At Simon Levy , our priority is to make sure that your property is as safe as possible. To achieve this, we can carry out dilapidation surveys in order to assess the condition of your building and its various components and can act as an impartial witness to insurance claims and party wall matters and boundary disputes. If you’d like to know more about our various services and how they can benefit you as you buy your first property, then don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling us on 020 8207 6100 today!

Why You Should Hire an Impartial Expert Witness

Wed, 15 Sep 2021 07:16:38 GMT

Disputes are often multidimensional and involve a lot of factors. Plus, they can range across many different areas, including insurance, construction, and party wall disputes. Hiring an impartial witness often isn’t the first thing people think to do in these types of situations but this decision has many benefits. Here’s how an impartial expert witness can save you time and money.

Impartial Mediation

The most obvious reason why you should hire an impartial witness is because they will provide impartial mediation. When resolving disputes, emotions can get the better of us and it can feel as though the other party has gained the upper hand when conflicts are resolved, which can result in bad blood. To avoid further disputes, an impartial witness will ensure that decisions are, first and foremost, fair across the board.

Versatile Services

Do you have a party wall dispute, a construction dispute, or an insurance claim? Another key reason why you may want to consider hiring an impartial expert witness is because their services are very versatile. Witnesses are trained to the highest degree in a variety of areas because conflicts are often multidimensional and will cover a range of areas. A witness will be able to assess all aspects of a conflict in order to find the most workable solution for all involved, regardless of either party’s intentions.

Defence Against Small Claims

Taking legal action in the small claims court can be a costly business, and not just in terms of money. It can sap on other areas of your life because they’re often lengthy and bring a lot of stress on all parties involved. A great way to avoid these implications is to hire an impartial expert witness who can resolve the dispute on behalf of all parties. This way, you can focus your attention on what you want to focus it on, whether it's family time or your job.

It Can Save You Money

A key reason why small claims can be expensive is that the types of disputes that witnesses help out with usually lack physical evidence. A lot of the interaction between the two parties is verbal and due to this lack of evidence, small claims court cases can last weeks, if not months. The costs begin to pile up as you pay for lawyers throughout this time and as you’re compelled to take more time off work.

Not only does hiring an expert impartial witness save you money in the short and long term, but it also frees up your time. Plus, their services are always very versatile and leave no question over whether one party got off better than the other when issues are resolved.

At Simon Levy , we are specialists at handling complex disputes and we aim for utmost impartiality. If you have any further questions about witnesses, or if you’d like to know about our other services from dilapidation surveys to planning matters, then don’t hesitate to get in touch by calling us on 020 8207 6100!

The Most Common Building Defects to Watch For

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 13:53:06 GMT

Whether you’re considering buying a property or have already bought it, you should be aware of any shortcomings it has. This gives you a better idea of how to proceed with repairs and renovations and is helpful in determining whether the structure is worth saving or not. A Building Defect Diagnosis report will give you all the information you need and you can decide how to proceed.

Wondering what sorts of problems are commonly found in these types of surveys? We’ve put together some of the most frequently seen issues.

Cracks in Walls

A crack along a wall can appear quite alarming but it isn’t necessarily as scary as it looks. In fact, in many cases, the cracks are non-structural cracks and they’re not dangerous and pose no threat to the structure itself.

Non-structural cracks are usually hairline cracks that can run in any direction. They may appear on walls that have no structural importance.

Structural cracks, however, are potentially dangerous to the building and will require repair. These often appear on a load-bearing wall and may run over a beam or other structural elements. Cracks that run diagonally from the corner of a window frame or door can also be serious. These usually indicate that the door or window has shifted either up or down.

You’ll also find structural cracks are long, wider cracks along a wall. If you notice rust stains showing up along the cracks, that is usually an indication the situation is more serious than it may appear at first.

When the cracks affect the structure of the building, you need to inspect the foundation for potential issues. Often, cracks will appear because the ground has shifted and this causes the concrete to lift or drop and causes many potential structural problems. Just patching the wall won’t fix it, so you’ll need to look into underpinning the foundation and solidifying it.

Roof Problems

The roof is an essential part of any building, so if it isn’t in great condition, you know the rest of the building will also be lacking. The inspection will look at the roof inside and out, noting things such as missing shingles, mould or algae, curling shingles or cracked tiles. All of these indicate the roof will require replacing very soon. Inside, the report will determine if there are any structural abnormalities in the attic or signs of water damage.

Poor Level of Workmanship

This is often obvious without a building defect diagnosis, but it’s still worth having one done to catch anything you may have missed on your own walkthrough. The condition of the building will be determined by the type of workmanship and if it was poor, then you may not trust the building much.

Fortunately, you can often remedy poor workmanship, particularly if it occurred mainly in one area. You will need to hire someone who knows how to do things correctly and who can repair the areas that were poorly done. You should be able to trust the structure by the time they are finished.

Termites and Other Pests

Termites are a pretty serious pest, but there are plenty of other ones to worry about including mice, rats, and hornets. However, termites will destroy your home and may already be well on the way to doing just that. A damage report will note if there are any pests to be seen in the home, particularly termites.

Since these creatures often hide away, the inspector will need to look at some of the more hidden wooden beams and pillars that are in the home. These are frequently in the basement or boiler room and may be easily noticed by the piles of wood crumbs on the floor or around the area.

You’ll need to think long and hard before you make the decision to take on a building with this type of problem, but if you have the right contractors on your side, you may be able to handle it.

Moisture Problems

Water is pervasive and tends to get in even when you think you’re safe. Unfortunately, when not sorted in time, water can create some serious damage. Water issues can come from many directions, including:

Roof leaks: This will present itself as wet marks on the ceiling and running down the walls.

Pipe leaks: Wet areas on the floor, buckled floorboards, and moisture creeping up the walls from the floor are usually signs that a pipe is broken or leaking. This will need to be fixed immediately.

Gaps around windows: If you see water trails running down from the windows, this could be either condensation from poorly insulated windows or it may be rain coming through gaps under the windows.

Moisture issues are quite dangerous because the moisture can get inside the walls where you can’t see the full extent of the damage. It could be minimal, or it could be that you have dry rot in your beams and structural walls. If this occurs, you could see the collapse of the entire building.

Sometimes, the water will simply cause simple defects such as wallpaper peeling or paint flaking off the walls. You may notice that the floor is buckling, particularly if it is made of wood. This is another indication of moisture in the floors, which could be a broken pipe.

Even if the structure is still sound, moisture and darkness tend to be a bad combination that results in mould. If there is mould inside the walls, you may not realise it for some time but it can really affect your health and that of your family.

Not only will you need to repair the cause of the water damage but you will also need to repair the damage caused by that water, which may be far more extensive than you can imagine.

Structural Movement

You definitely want to know if the building you’re considering purchasing is structurally unsound. If there has been movement in the soil, this will affect the structural integrity of the building. Any time something like this occurs, it can seriously damage the home and shift how the entire structure sits on the foundation. It may be quite dangerous to live in a home like this.

Movement in the building may occur for a few reasons. First, there could be a tremor that shifted things, though this is rare. More commonly, the soil beneath the foundation has settled or sunken in one area, which shifts the foundation.

Another possibility is if water has gotten under the foundation, it can wash out the soil or compact it. This causes the foundation to sink in some parts by cracking and moving. This in turn can affect the entire house and cause cracks in the walls.

You’ll notice cracked tiles in the floors of a home that has shifted like this. The floors may also be uneven, so that if water spills, it runs into a corner. Older homes tend to be a little uneven, but you’ll want to ensure that it isn’t the foundation causing the issues found in the defect diagnosis report.

What Happens After the Report?

Once you have the building defect report in your hands, you need to decide what to do next. In most cases, the report will cover suggested repairs but if the situation was too complex and required removing walls, floorboards, or plaster, you’ll need to hire someone else and do a deeper investigation.

It is essential that you know exactly what you are facing when purchasing a home. While the problems may not dissuade you from purchasing, it’s always better to know ahead of time what the hidden issues are. If you find too many, then it may be a good idea to look elsewhere. After all, the diagnosis report is based on non-invasive examinations, so there may be even more under the surface that you have yet to discover.

Now you have to decide if it’s worth repairing all the issues that have been uncovered. It can be useful to get a quote from a contractor at this point, which will let you know more or less the amount of money you’ll have to spend just to get the building up to proper standards. The inspector should be able to refer you to a good repair person or contractor who can handle the repairs for you.

Are you looking for someone to do a building defect diagnosis for you? Contact Simon Levy today for a quote on your project.

Why You Need a Dilapidation Surveyor

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 13:40:55 GMT

If you are near the end of your lease or mid-term, your landlord will likely require a dilapidation schedule. This is to ensure that the premises are being maintained according to the lease contract and should be reasonable. There ought to be sufficient time to complete any necessary work prior to the end of the lease. However, if you feel that you are being asked to cover repairs that were not included in the lease or for damage that occurred before you arrived, you’ll want a dilapidation surveyor.

Prevent Future Repairs of Pre-existing Damage

Ideally, you’ll have a survey conducted before you commence the lease. This will indicate the current condition of the premises and any areas that are structurally unsound. The report may include things like water damage or cracks in the building, cracks in the masonry, damage to footpaths and roads, issues with the gutters, and poor drainage of the area, among other problems.

In most cases, the report will include photographs and video, as well as a detailed written description. This is all used to prove what damage existed prior to the lease and will save you plenty of money from an unscrupulous landlord.

Challenge an Unfair Claim

If your landlord insists that you repair certain areas of the building that you deem to fall outside the terms of the lease, it may be necessary to bring an expert in. The surveyor will examine the property and determine what is fair to include in the dilapidation.

It’s important to have an unbiased contractor come in for the survey, as they will do what is fair in the situation, making it work for both tenant and landlord.

Get a Clear Idea of Structural Condition Before Building

Are you considering construction on a building or area that may not be structurally sound? A dilapidation surveyor is a good choice to determine how secure an area is for construction and whether you will need to take extra precautions to avoid potential issues in the building or on the site.

It’s also helpful to perform a survey to ensure the site is restored to its original state once the construction work has been completed. Everything from footpaths and roads to gardens and decorations will need to be replaced as they were before.

Are you in need of a dilapidation surveyor? Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, Simon Levy can help. Contact us now for more information.

Understanding Planning Permissions

Wed, 11 Aug 2021 13:36:09 GMT

Planning permissions are something that most homeowners dread, particularly if they have been rejected previously. The idea of running your plans by a council and letting them determine whether you should be permitted to build or not can be quite unnerving. However, planning permissions don’t need to be so worrisome.

Learn What You Can Build Without a Permit

Not everything requires planning permission, so you may be able to build what you like without having to apply for a permit. This reduces much of the stress, so if it’s an option, you’ll want to take it.

Most new homes or dwellings will require planning permission, as well large outbuildings or detailed extensions. If your build involves a listed building, you’ll likely need permission for this, as well.

Small expansions may be permitted without needing to apply ahead of time. You can often adjust or extend your roof, as well, without issues and small outbuildings may also be permitted under Permitted Development. You can build a porch, make internal alternations, convert loft spaces, install satellite dishes and microgeneration equipment, rooflights, or extend the rear of your home without problems, as well.

Types of Planning Permission

There are multiple types of planning permissions, so you should be aware of what each one covers and when you might need it.

Full Planning Permission: This allows you to create a project with a rather detailed design. There are specific planning conditions which must be discharged formally by letter to the local authority. Do this before the project begins or you may lose the approval.

Outline Planning Permission : While this permission gives permission, it does not include the design and is usually used to test how viable a building project is before going for full permission. You will still need to apply for permission and approval with the full plans before you can begin construction.

Householder Planning Permission: If you are merely altering your existing home or building an addition, you will need this type of planning.

Each permission type has its own specifications, so you should become aware of what is required before submitting.

Hire an Expert

If you find yourself struggling to understand planning permissions on your own, it’s a good idea to look at hiring someone who is familiar with the various permissions. They can help you determine just what you need and will help manage the paperwork and various experts, too.

The entire process will flow better when you have someone on your side. Take the time to learn exactly what you need, but don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Looking for someone to aid with applying for planning permission? At Simon Levy , we have experts to help you in your journey.

The Most Common Building Defects and How to Detect Them

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:45:30 GMT

It’s often the case that building defects take a while to notice, which summarily leads to further damage to the property and the development of further defects. A good example is roofing problems, whereby some loose tiles lead to water ingress which can rot support beams and potentially allow parts of the ceiling to collapse (this is what happened to my student house)!

This means that it’s a good idea to get any potential problems examined at an early stage, but it’s often difficult knowing if there is a problem in the first place, let alone how it came about and how it can be fixed! This makes hiring a professional, who can conduct what is called a ‘Building Defect Analysis’, a great way to put your mind at ease and to save money in the long run!

What is a Building Defect Analysis?

Your landlord will likely arrange for an end-of-tenancy dilapidation survey, which is when the building is examined to uncover any problems which may have occurred or developed during your tenancy. This is so any necessary repairs can be made prior to new tenants arriving and to make sure that previous tenants pay for their damage.

A good way to ensure that this is done fairly is to hire a professional to conduct a building defect diagnosis on your property. This will ensure that the origin of the problem and any potential remedies are fully understood by the tenant. For example, you could end up being pushed into paying for existing damage because you didn’t know where and when the problem began, or you could end up paying for a service which doesn’t fit the indicated problem.

This means that having a building defect analysis conducted will lead to greater comfort, safety, and security in your property.

Water Ingress

Don’t worry (too much), water ingress through brick walls is a relatively common occurrence. Generally, this can occur for a number of reasons which vary in terms of severity. At one end of the spectrum is cracking in the building’s brickwork and substrate and at the other end are serious structural deficiencies which cause long term damage to entire walls.

There are two tricky water ingress situations that you should be aware of, as they are normally down to structural issues:

Cavity wall ties : If a cavity wall tie uses too much or too little mortar, or if it uses metal which has since corroded and cracked, then these ties can attract water which inevitably soaks into the wall.

Water ingress around windows : This is a fairly common form of water ingress and is usually caused by the window unit moving over time, creating gaps around the window frame. Generally, if the window leak is visible where the window sash meets the jamb then the window is the cause of the leak.

Mould Propagation

A huge 80-85% of mould problems are caused by human-made condensation, so this is a building defect which tenants are definitely liable toward. Even though most people can fairly easily detect mould, it comes in a huge variety of types, sizes, colours, and textures, so it’s important to consider some universal ways of detecting it as opposed to relying solely on its appearance:

- Firstly, if it has a musty, earthy smell.

- Secondly, if there is more moisture than usual combined with little sunlight.

- Thirdly, if it turns white when exposed to diluted bleach (1 part bleach, 16 parts water).

- Fourthly, if it grows - it is an organism after all!

It’s also possible to tell that you have mould if you display any of the following symptoms: coughing, sneezing, a sore and itchy throat, a runny nose, sinus headaches, wheezing and difficulty breathing, itchy and watery eyes, itchy and irritated skin. This is especially true when these symptoms fluctuate at roughly the same time and when they are displayed simultaneously.

Structural Weaknesses

‘Structural weaknesses’ is really an umbrella term for a host of potential issues with your building. The most common are cracks in brickwork, gaps in windows and door frames, bowed walls and ceilings, and gradual building movements which may, for example, cause the porch to move away from the house or cause a wall to lean in a particular direction.

The problem with structural weaknesses is that they can be hard to accurately locate. Symptoms will include leaking water, draughts, and cracking but these don’t necessarily point to one problem and could be the effect of a number of problems. This is a key reason why a professional building defect analysis is an important consideration, so that you can fully understand the extent of the problem (instead of surfing through Google or asking Alexa)!

Furthermore, sound penetration is a reliable symptom of structural weaknesses because most building defects result in either cracks or gaps. If you notice that sounds are louder in particular rooms or sides of the house, or that you can hear inside the house from the street particularly well, then you ought to book a consultation.

Distorted and Bulged Walls

Distorted or bulged walls are most common in older stone buildings and in more wintry settings. They are particularly worrying because unless they are addressed the wall’s distortion will develop to the extent that its centre of gravity will lay outside the middle of its base. This will cause a whole plethora of other structural issues which will inevitably arise in a dilapidation report. This is also common in roofs with too little support or in properties with too little, or weak, retaining walls.

In fact, this is a structural problem which is particularly easy to detect because all it requires is a spirit level. Just hold it up against the wall and if the small bubble doesn’t land within the two outermost lines then the wall isn’t level - you’d better be good at Jenga!

Roofing

A whole range of problems can occur to the roof during your tenancy. In the hum and drum of day-to-day lives, the roof can become neglected over time. Here are some of the more common problems that occur with roofs and which are detected in building defect diagnosis:

Tiling : Depending on how your roof tiles were fixed to the roof’s battens, either the nails corrode over time and tiles become loose, or where concrete or clay tiles are used they can crack and spool over time. This is often a primary cause of top-down water ingress.

Rotting : If the tiles have become broken over time or were fitted improperly then the structural beams holding the shape of the roof can begin to rot from the water ingress. Although most houses no longer use wood for such important structural properties, older houses may still have wooden roof beams and these aren’t likely to be as strong as they once were.

Sagging : A direct result of rotting structural beams is that either the roof itself, the floor of the roof, or its structural beams begin to sag. This lowers the integrity of the upper half of the building’s structure and can lead to a whole new set of problems.

Clearly, neglecting the roof can quickly become detrimental to the rest of the building, especially as one roofing problem often leads to another. This means that roofing issues form a snowball effect which makes identifying the source of the problem particularly difficult, often requiring professional assistance such as that provided by Simon Levy Associates .

Simon Levy Associates

It should now be clear what sort of symptoms you should be looking out for, especially when nearing the end of your tenancy. These can be indicative of a range of building defects which have been discussed above, from mould to bulging walls and from cracked bricks to door frame gaps. Getting these examined by a professional ahead of your landlord’s dilapidation assessment can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds in the long run!

A great way to save money is to organise a building defect diagnosis with a specialist like Simon Levy Associates so that you can get a head start on these repairs before moving out, rather than running the risk of paying more for a dilapidation survey - forward thinking is key in this respect!

If you have any further questions then don’t hesitate to get in contact on 0208 207 6100 to understand more about our services which include building defect analyses, party wall matters and boundary disputes, insurance claims, planning matters, and dilapidation surveys!

Why You Should Hire a Professional to Help With Your Insurance Claim

Thu, 08 Jul 2021 11:23:28 GMT

Legal disputes are notoriously tiring and expensive. Sometimes they become very heated, result in financial ruin, severely impact mental health, or result in the loss of one’s reputation. This is why an impartial mediator is a solid option for those who wish to save their time, energy, money, and reputation.

Here are the ways an impartial mediator can help with your insurance claim:

It Saves You Money

It’s no surprise to anyone that legal cases are expensive processes to begin with. In an extreme circumstance, you could find yourself in a position where both your own legal team and the insurer are deliberately dragging out the legal process to earn more money. Not to mention the fact that legal processes come with other complications, be it time off work or travel costs. Hiring an impartial mediator will ensure that the case is closed in an efficient manner and that the quality of work being produced matches the time it’s taking.

It Saves Your Mental Health

When insurance companies, or your legal team, attempt to draw out the process, or where the dispute gets heated, the true victim of the situation is your own mental health and wellbeing. The mental health crisis many people face after being put through a long, arduous legal case, added to potential financial ruin following its expenses, creates a boiling pot of negativity and a lack of wellbeing.

The best way to avoid this and to ensure that you can retain your wellbeing, both throughout and after the process, is to hire an impartial mediator who can ensure that proceedings run smoothly and fairly on both sides of the case. This means you can spend more time living your life and less time worrying ceaselessly about the legal case.

It Saves Losing Reputation

So far, the emphasis has been on the individual or company claiming against the insurance company or landlord, but landlords and construction companies can equally benefit from hiring a professional to mediate a claim made against them. As disputes become heated, or where companies don’t get the outcome they hoped, their reputation is on the line and this can have an impact on all of its employees.

Rather than losing your reputation by failing to win the case or finding that it gets very heated, hiring an imperial mediator demonstrates that all decisions have been made fairly for both parties involved; a decision which could potentially save your business.

Simon Levy Associates

Simon Levy Associates offer help with insurance claims , from understanding the appropriate scope and depth of your claim, to liaising with the insurance company, to certifying the execution of its result. If you have any questions about insurance claims or would like to know about the other services provided by Simon Levy then don’t hesitate to get in touch on 020 8207 6100!

How Safe Is Your Older Home?

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 10:26:20 GMT

Is your home safe or is it hiding a host of potential issues behind its walls? While new builds can have problems, you’re far more likely to find them in older homes, particularly those with charm. However, if your home was built and then ended up having structural issues that have led to other problems, you need to take steps to rectify the situation.

First, you need to determine what the problem is, then how to fix it, and finally, you need to look at how to prevent the situation in the future. Here’s all you need to know.

Common Building Defect Signs

There are a lot of potential issues that can occur in an improperly built home but some of the most common include:

Damp: Water getting into places it shouldn’t is a big issue and can cause a lot of damage, not only to your home but to your belongings. This may occur on upper levels where the roof is not properly sealed, or if a pipe has broken loose, but it most commonly is found in the basement or ground level floor.

Mould: Due to dampness, you’ll find that mould sets in rather quickly. It’s a big issue and one that can have you and your family feeling quite ill, depending on the type of mould. However, once it is treated, the initial problem must also be fixed.

Structural movement: Whether you’re noticing the foundations of your home sinking, cracks in the floors and walls, or some other type of movement, you should be aware that this may be due to improper construction or a broken pipe that is soaking the ground and causing the house to sink. There are a few reasons it could happen, but an improper build is often the main issue.

Sound: Can you hear your neighbours breathing? Then you probably have a poorly built building. The walls should be far more soundproof than they are, which often means a partial rebuild. You’ll usually find that some step has been left out, such as insulation, allowing all sound to get through the wall easily.

Condensation: Do you notice condensation on your walls or windows every day? This could also be due to a structural error. Condensation does occur naturally, but if it’s trapped inside your home, it can cause water damage and mould problems.

Building defects can be a big issue, but most of them are fixable. The trick is to catch them early enough. With Simon Levy , you can find building defects early and get them fixed long before they cause you any issues at all.

What to Expect from a Building Survey

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 10:04:00 GMT

Are you about to buy a property? If so, you will need to do a survey to ensure that the property is up to standard and to prevent being surprised with flaws in the future. Buying a new home isn’t always as wonderful as it sounds. If you don’t do a thorough inspection first you could miss potential problems that will come back to haunt you later and these problems can be expensive to fix and may not be worth the cost.

Here’s what to expect from building survey and how why they are important.

What is a Building Survey?

A building survey is essentially an inspection of the property to find any flaws that you should know about before purchasing. There are actually two types of property surveys, the building survey and the structural survey.

Building vs. Structural Survey

A building survey is a simpler report than the structural option. The building survey is performed by an RICS building surveyor and will involve checking all accessible areas of the property. This is all written up in a report, which is bespoke to your needs. It will cover defects and possible maintenance issues with as many details as necessary.

The structural survey is performed by a structural engineer who will check the actual integrity of the building and the surrounding property. Again, they will write up a report.

Which Survey is Best?

In general, older buildings or buildings that are unusual should be given a structural survey while more modern options are ideal for the standard building report. If you’re planning to do extensive renovations, you’ll also need to have a structural survey.

The building survey is a visual inspection and doesn’t include deeper investigations, such as looking under floorboards or in attics and basements. These are things that a structural engineer will check into if necessary, to find all the flaws possible.

When Should You Get a Building Survey?

A building survey is something that you’ll want if you are purchasing a fairly new home and one that will not require renovations. The inspector will look at the building and the property, along with any outbuildings and you can expect them to note any potential flaws that need fixing.

It takes several hours, depending on the size of the home and the property, to determine the potential issues of the property.

What Does the Survey Involve?

First, the surveyor will look at the nearby areas, including other houses and how far they are from the home you are buying. Outbuildings and roads or any other features will also be marked down for future information.

The next step is to examine the home. This will be looked at carefully from top to bottom, noting any cracks, pests, or other issues that will need to be fixed in the near future. The pointing will be checked and dampness assessed if the pointing is incorrectly done or is failing. Any flaws that are notable will be marked down and the surveyor may even suggest a cost for repairing these. The garden is also included in the inspection and will involve checking the drainage and looking at the trees nearby. If there are large trees, these could be a danger in a storm. You’ll need to check for Tree Preservation Orders before purchasing the property.

Other things that are examined include the HVAC system to see how old it is and whether it will require replacing in the near future. The electrical panel will also be checked and you may be told that it needs to be replaced, as well. The surveyor will watch for signs of any pests like termites or rats. You may be referred to a specialist to get a better report on these issues since the problems caused by them can be extensive and often hidden.

Doors and windows, as the entrances to the home, will be checked for cracks, damp entering through gaps, and keys that are missing from the locks. These can all indicate future problems, particularly in an older home. Finally, the plumbing will be looked at and tested. This is a preliminary report, but if you want a more detailed check you may need to look at hiring a plumber or getting a structural survey.

What is Involved in a Structural Survey?

A structural survey is far more detailed than a standard building survey. The structural engineer will be focused on going below the outside appearances. The surveyor will take a good look at the property and note drainage patterns, signs of waterlogging or sewage problems.

The surveyor will also inspect everything, even inside closets, behind furniture, up in the attic and down in the basement. By the end of the survey, you will have a report that covers everything they found. Some of the more common issues to deal with include:

Rot: Wooden homes can rot and this will require replacing wooden beams or floorboards that have rotted away due to damp. This is very common in homes that have not been inhabited recently and this may result in some extensive repairs.

Woodworm or Termites: These pests can absolutely destroy a home and it’s best to have a very in-depth look at how far they’ve spread before you purchase. If they are already through the wood, they may have jeopardised the integrity of your home and eaten through beams, etc.

Wood eating pests can put your entire purchase at risk, so it is essential that you spend time checking to see how extensive the damage is. You may wish to call in an exterminator to give you an estimate on the damage and how much it would cost to fix it.

Stonework and Brickwork: If your potential home has any type of masonry, it should be inspected for stability. Over the years, the joints may become loose and stones can also fall out. The stability of the entire thing is often dependent on the cap stones that are placed atop the walls to press them down and hold the walls in place.

Hiring an expert stone mason is costly, so it’s worth looking at how extensive the rebuild will be before you purchase the property. Repointing and replacing bricks or stones can be quite the procedure.

Roof: You should know exactly how much work the roof is going to need. This can be determined by examining rot and wet spots from the inside of the attic but looking at missing shingles and such will also give you a clear idea of how much damage has been done. A full roof inspection is a good idea if there is any sign of water entering the attic.

The gutters should also be examined to see if they need replacing and if they are doing their job. The surveyor will look at where the gutters drain and ensure that it isn’t too close to the foundation.

Windows: Most windows in older homes are single pane or glazed and this can be an issue. It allows the heat and cold to pass through and may not be suitable for the climate in the area. There may also be condensation that is causing dampness around the windows. In these cases, the windows will likely need to be replaced.

Mould: Where there is damp, there’s often mould. Whether you have rot or not, you’ll frequently find unpleasant smells from damp areas and these are likely to hold fungus and mould that could result in health problems if not taken care of. The worry is that mould may be inside the walls and the HVAC system, which means it will be very difficult to get out.

Chimneys: Another area where damp can get in, chimneys will be thoroughly examined to ensure they are still functional and not in danger of falling down. If the cap or the flue no longer works, this would allow rain to make its way into the chimney and it could be yet another area the damp comes in.

Health Risks: Asbestos, mould, and lead are just a few of the things that could be lurking in an older home. Your surveyor will do their best to determine if any of these issues is a problem that you need to deal with. If there are problems that severe, you may elect to cancel the purchase, since it can be an insane amount of work to get rid of the health issues.

Are you purchasing a home? Do you need a structural engineer to take a look at it all and walk you through the potential issues and changes? Contact Simon Levy today to get a quote.

What to Consider When Buying a New Build Home

Fri, 07 May 2021 00:00:00 GMT

Buying a property is an exciting time but it’s important to choose the right home for you. New builds are often a great option for first time buyers or anyone with a growing family, but there are some important factors to consider.

There are many benefits to buying a new build home but there can also be common problems that buyers aren’t aware of. If you’re wondering whether a new build is right for you, see below for our handy guide.

What is a new build property?

If a property is brand new and has never been lived in, it’s classed as a new build. Some modern houses may look brand new, but if they’ve had a previous owner or tenant then they’re technically not a new build.

Some lenders have different definitions of what’s classed as a new build home, but it’s usually a property that’s been built within the last two years. Some people buy a new build home ‘off-plan’; this means buying a house that hasn’t actually been built yet. This is often considered riskier as you’re making a decision based on a show home or proposed images in a brochure.

The benefits of new builds

There are many advantages to buying a new build property and they’re appealing to buyers for a number of reasons, including:

Affordable

New build houses are often more affordable than period properties. You also only need a 5% deposit for new builds under a certain price threshold; one reason why they’re so appealing to first time buyers. Many people can also afford a larger property for less money thanks to the Help to Buy Scheme.

Energy efficient

Old houses can be draughty and poorly insulated but new builds are often far more energy efficient. Newly built properties usually include energy-efficient features such as double glazing and extra roof insulation. This makes the property more environmentally friendly and you’re likely to save money on your energy bills.

Customisable

If you buy off-plan, you might have the option to customise certain features and fittings to suit your tastes. Many buyers like the thought of a home that’s built to their requirements and you can ensure it has all the features you need.

Guarantees

Many new properties come with a guarantee, such as the National House Building Council’s 10 year warranty. Other companies may also provide warranties or insurance for new build properties, such as BLP’s housing warranty insurance.

Less maintenance

Potential buyers might fall in love with an old property, only to find that it requires thousands of pounds worth of work. Common maintenance for older properties includes draught proofing, adding insulation, foundation repairs and damp proofing. By contrast, new builds often require far less maintenance and repair costs should be minimal in the first few years.

You’re the first person to live there!

Many buyers love the fact that they’ll be the first people to live in the property. It means you can really put your stamp on the place and mould it into a home to suit you. There’s no need to worry about the previous owners’ taste in wallpaper or how they’ve divided the layout; the property is yours to decorate as you wish.

What’s included in a new build property?

New build properties often include many fixtures and fittings that you’d otherwise have to buy separately. The details of what’s included will vary from developer to developer but you could bag washing machines, dishwashers, luxury wooden flooring or furniture.

As mentioned above, new builds are also more energy efficient, so expect double or even triple-glazed windows, insulated roofs and energy efficient heating. Be wary of the upsell however; developers may try to sell you additional items (like extra furniture) as part of the deal. It could be much cheaper to source these yourself, so have a clear list of what you actually need before agreeing to any extras.

Potential problems

There are many benefits to buying a new build but it’s important to be aware of the potential problems too. A new build doesn’t necessarily mean no issues and some estimates suggest that new builds can have between 50 and 150 defects. Arranging a professional building survey is the best way to protect your investment and spot any major problems before signing a contract.

A full building survey will examine all internal and external areas of a property, including the plumbing, windows and doors, roof area and main walls. It will also look at its general thermal performance, sound insulation, fixtures and fittings and potential issues like damp or structural problems.

Other potential problems with new builds include:

Hidden costs

Always check the small print of your contract for any hidden costs or fees included with the new build. Some properties charge a service fee for maintenance of shared areas like a garden or communal pathway. If you’re buying a new leasehold flat, you’ll also have to pay a service charge for the management of the building.

It’s also a good idea to avoid leasehold new buildings in general if you can help it. Leasehold means that you don’t own the land your property is on and you’ll need to pay rising ground rent to the freeholder.

Unfinished buildings

This is a risk you take if you choose to buy an off-plan new build. Construction projects can overrun and you may find yourself paying for a property that hasn’t been finished yet. If you’re one of the first to buy a property on a new development site, you could be moving into a house surrounded by building work.

The buying process

If you’ve viewed a show home or development and have decided you want to go ahead, you can now start the buying process. You’ll need to put in your offer (don’t be afraid to haggle) and then pay a reservation fee. This is usually around £1,000 which is then deducted from the purchase price when you complete.

It’s always worth appointing a solicitor or conveyancer to help you with the legal and financial side of the process. Look for an agency or individual with experience in dealing with new builds, especially if you’re buying off-plan. They’ll also be able to liaise with developers to work out when you’ll receive your keys.

Waiting to move in

Contracts are often exchanged months before you move in if you’re buying a new build. You’ll need to pay your deposit at this point (via the conveyancer) and you should receive a short-stop date and a long-stop date. The short-stop date is when the developer expects to finish the work and the long-stop date is when the work has to be finished by.

Long-stop dates are designed to stop you losing your mortgage offer, as some lenders have stricter limits for how much they’ll loan for a new build property. A third party mortgage broker will be able to advise you on the best lender and deal to suit you.

Professional building surveys from the experts at Simon Levy

If you’re thinking about buying a new build property, get in touch with the experts at Simon Levy. We’re proud to offer full structural building surveys to assess the property before you go ahead with the purchase. We understand what a significant investment property is, which is why we’ll use our decades of experience to make sure everything is up to scratch.

Our full building surveys include a detailed assessment of external and internal plumbing, electrics, ventilation, thermal performance, insulation, damp penetration, roof areas, floors, partitions and more. A professional building survey can save you thousands in potential repairs or renovations, so give us a call today or contact us online to find out more.

Do I Need Planning Permission for a Home Extension?

Mon, 03 May 2021 00:00:00 GMT

An extension is a great way to add extra space to your home and increase the overall value of your property. You might have the perfect design and be raring to go, but there are several rules and regulations to consider first.

If you’re planning a larger home extension, you may need planning permission before the work can go ahead. It’s more likely that you won’t need planning permission, but it’s important to be aware of the regulations. If you’re planning a home extension and want to know more, read on for our guide to planning permission considerations.

What is permitted development?

Most home extensions fall into the category of permitted development, which means that planning permission isn’t required. An extension is classed as a permitted development, so long as:

● The extension covers no more than half the area of land around the original house.

● The extension is no higher than the highest part of the roof.

● A single storey rear extension is no higher than four metres.

● Extensions of more than one storey do not extend beyond the rear wall of the original house by more than three metres.

● Two storey extensions are no closer than seven metres to the rear boundary.

● The materials match (or are similar to) the existing house.

● Single storey extensions don’t extend beyond the rear wall by more than eight metres (for a detached house), or more than six metres for any other house.

There are additional rules for listed properties or those in a conservation area, so it’s always worth double checking before work commences. If you’re planning an extension with dimensions larger than those listed above, you’ll also need to seek planning permission.

How do I apply for planning permission?

The application process can be complicated, so it’s worth seeking help from a professional planning consultant. They’ll be able to help you submit an application or set up a meeting with your local planning authority. You’ll need to have design drawings of your proposed work and be able to demonstrate how it will fit into its surroundings.

Technical drawings are also a good idea and these will help you obtain building regulations approval. A structural engineer can help you draw these up in advance and planning applications can be submitted through the online Planning Portal here .

Do you need professional help and advice with your planning application ? Get in touch with the experts at Simon Levy for help navigating the process. We’ve provided expert property advice for clients in Borehamwood, Barnet, Watford and the Home Counties for over 30 years and we’ll work to keep the application process as simple as possible. Our chartered surveyors are on hand to offer expert planning application advice and we can help you submit an appeal if necessary. For more information about our planning permission services, don’t hesitate to give us a call today or contact us online.

What is a Residential House Survey and Why do you Need One?

Thu, 01 Apr 2021 11:50:03 GMT

Whether you’re looking for your first property or a new family home, you have to think about the practical side of buying as well as all of the exciting plans you have in mind. One big mistake that many homeowners make is not getting a residential house survey. By checking the condition of the property thoroughly before you make an offer, you’re protecting yourself and preventing unexpected problems from arising.

Here’s all you need to know about a residential house survey.

What is a residential house survey?

Even though a property could look fine from the outside, who knows what kind of problems could be lurking on the inside! To find out the true condition of a property, residential house surveys involve hiring a trained surveyor who will inspect the house from top to bottom. Structural issues such as distorted walls, subsidence and roof problems will be identified and this information will be reported back for you to overview.

Is a house survey necessary?

House surveys are not enforced, although some mortgage companies may request one and for your own peace of mind, it’s always a good idea. Buying a home is already stressful so the last thing you want is to add more problems to the mix.

Schedule a house survey and you can experience the following benefits:

A reduction in your buying price

If your survey reveals that the property requires work, this gives you some room for negotiation in times of the buying price. If the work is estimated to cost a few thousand pounds, you can put forward a lower offer to compensate for the additional repairs that need to be done.

You’ll understand the true condition of the property

Since independent surveyors are unbiased, this is a great way of understanding the true condition of the home. On the other hand, estate agents may downplay any faults meaning you only see the true state of the property when you’ve bought it!

Your buying process can be less complicated

Everybody dreams of buying a property and experiencing no problems along the way. By choosing to have a survey you can improve your chances of this coming true by keeping future problems at bay.

If you require a building defect diagnosis, look no further then Simon Levy . Our professional team will use their expert knowledge to quickly identify building defects, repair work and small issues that could develop into something much bigger. Our property survey experience covers the full range of sectors including residential, commercial and local authority. Book your survey today. Get in touch with us for more information.