Of course, instructing an architect is in the first part of your plans, but have you thought about instructing a Chartered Surveyor?
BOUNDARY SURVEY
Before undertaking a Self Build project, it is important to establish the boundaries or edges of your land or estate. Instructing a Chartered Surveyor will essentially stop any potential problems – such as encroachments – and you will be less likely to end up with a dispute with your neighbour.
A Chartered Surveyor will also be able to assist with any issues that arise from the Party Wall Act 1996 – a particularly complex act that again could result in disputes. Below are some important factors of the Act that you should consider before starting a Self-build project.
PARTY WALL
Notifying – This is the legal obligation of the building owner to serve notice on their adjoining owners if they wish to begin works which qualify under the Act.
During your Self Build project you may have to make your neighbour aware of the works that are proposed, and, if the adjoining owner is satisfied that they will not materially affect them, they can simply agree in writing and the works may begin unhindered.
Whilst a surveyor is not necessarily required at this stage, anyone who might trigger the Act is advised to have their notices issued by a Chartered Surveyor – to ensure nothing is omitted, because that is the last thing you want!
Disputes – Quite often, however, neighbours do not agree at this early stage and are concerned by the impact the proposed works might have on them and/or their property. If they raise concerns, or don’t respond to the notice at all, then a dispute has arisen.
If such a dispute arises, then both parties need to appoint a Party Wall Surveyor – who will ideally be a trained and experienced Chartered Surveyor. This surveyor can be the same person for both parties – termed an ‘agreed surveyor’.
Whilst this may seem odd, Chartered Surveyors are bound by an ethical code of conduct and, under the Act, they are also duty bound to act impartially – so having only one surveyor involved can keep things fairly simple.
The appointed surveyor(s) will agree a route forward and encapsulate this in what is called a Party Wall Award, which is binding on both parties.
You can also find impartial information on the Act at the gov.uk website or you can take a look at an illustrative guide to the legislation here.
VALUATION
If you’re opting for this new project, you want to make it worth your while. Instructing an independent surveyor to get a Valuation after you’ve finished your project is a great idea.
They will be able to tell you exactly how much value your property has increased (or decreased – which we hope wouldn’t happen) and give you an independent report stating this. This can be very helpful down the line if you decide to sell your property.
We’d like to thank Right Surveyors for their time and contribution to this week’s blog! If you would like any help, or more information regarding a property valuation, get in touch with Right Surveyors via email – on office@rightsurveyors.co.uk, or via live chat on their website!
