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Listed Building Surveys
The purchase of a heritage property requires a survey and report that is tailored to the type of building. Often, we are asked to carry out a RICS Level 2 or 3 survey. However, the RICS template format of such reports is not suitable where there are historic features to consider and repairs that require traditional craftsmanship to resolve.
Our detailed survey report comments on defects but also risk analysis of future issues over the medium term. Estimated costs of repairs are included to help give a balanced view of the property.
In our experience, it is inevitable that some work will be required to a Listed Building, and purchasers need to be aware of the need for ongoing maintenance of historic fabric. Modern-day repair solutions are usually not appropriate to traditional materials.
Recent examples of survey findings include:
Party Walls
The Party Wall etc Act 1996 often brings neighbours into disagreement, and it is the Party Wall Surveyor’s role to resolve disputes that fall under the Act. One aspect of the Act that an adjacent owner may not realise is that a person carrying out alteration works or extensions can in certain circumstances have the right to erect scaffold over next door or gain access on their land to carry out the work. If damage is caused to next door, surveyors can step in to issue a further Award in order to resolve disputes where neighbours cannot agree.
Our Party Wall Expert, Stuart Brown, has been involved in over 120 party wall matters during 2024, for projects mainly within a 25-mile radius of the Bedford office, but also on a large improvement scheme in Crawley.
If you would like further information or to find out how we can help you, please contact me.
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