Blogs

Do Party Wall Surveyors Enforce the Award? Understanding Their Role and Your Rights

Wednesday 30th April 2025

If you're involved in a building project that falls under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, you may already be familiar with the…

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When is a Party Wall Award Legally Served? Lessons from Freetown Ltd v Assethold Ltd [2012]

Tuesday 22nd April 2025

In the world of party wall surveying, timing is everything — especially when it comes to the service of an award. A key case, Freetown Ltd v Assethold Ltd [2012] EWCA Civ 1657, clarifies…

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SDLT Relief: What Counts as an Uninhabitable Property?

Wednesday 16th April 2025

The Inland Revenue (now HMRC) defines a property as uninhabitable for the purposes of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) relief in very limited and specific circumstances. Definition of “uninhabitable” (for SDLT purposes): According to HMRC guidance…

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Understanding Dry Rot vs Wet Rot: Key Differences, Common Causes, and Effective Remedies for UK Homes

Tuesday 8th April 2025

Dry Rot and Wet Rot are both forms of timber decay caused by fungi, but they differ in their conditions, the damage they cause, and where they are typically found in properties across the…

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Understanding Party Wall Act Considerations: When Damage Occurs Beyond 3 Metres

Tuesday 8th April 2025

Yes, you’re right to be cautious — within party wall circles, the perceived wisdom is that such damage is still very much a cause for…

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Protecting Your Rights: What to Do if Party Wall Works Cause Damage Despite Consent

Monday 31st March 2025

If a building owner has received consent from an adjoining owner for party wall works, but damage subsequently occurs, the adjoining owner still has several avenues for recourse. Here’s how the situation typically unfolds: 1.…

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Importance of carrying out a Schedule Of Condition prior to taking up a commercial lease

Friday 28th March 2025

Entering into a commercial lease is a significant commitment, and understanding the property’s condition before signing is crucial. A Schedule of Condition (SoC) serves as a detailed record of the property’s state at the lease’s commencement, typically comprising written descriptions…

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Adjoining Owners' Rights to Compensation: What Happens When Party Wall Works Cause Damage?

Wednesday 26th March 2025

If a building owner has received consent from an adjoining owner for party wall works, but damage subsequently occurs, the adjoining owner still has several avenues for recourse. Here’s…

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Why a Level 3 Building Survey is Essential: Expert Insights from Tayross Associates

Thursday 20th March 2025

When purchasing a property, ensuring you fully understand its condition is crucial. A Level 3 Building Survey is the most comprehensive type of survey available, providing…

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EWS Inspections: Revisiting a Site After an Invalid EWS Certificate

Monday 17th March 2025

The Importance of Proper EWS Inspections The necessity of thorough and compliant External Wall System (EWS) inspections has been underscored once again by recent revelations regarding invalid certificates issued by Tri Fire. At Tayross Chartered Building Surveyors, we were…

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Why It Is Not Standard Practice for an Adjoining Owner to See a Draft Party Wall Award Before Formal Service

Wednesday 19th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 plays a crucial role in managing disputes between building owners and adjoining owners when construction work affects shared walls or boundaries. One common question that arises in this process is whether a…

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What rights does a building owner have over a type B party wall owned by the adjoined owner?

Wednesday 19th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

A Type B party wall (also known as a party wall on a line of junction) is one that stands entirely on…

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Weathering a Type B Party Wall: Access Rights Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996

Wednesday 12th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

If the Adjoining Owner (AO) needs to perform work that involves weathering over the top of a Type B party…

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Access Challenges for Adjacent Works Near a Type B Party Wall: Legal Options and Best Practices"

Wednesday 12th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

In the scenario where it's impossible to effectively raise a new wall adjacent to a Type B party wall without access onto the Adjoining Owner's land, access rights under the Party Wall etc.…

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Compensation in relation section 6 (1) and section (2) works.

Wednesday 12th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, Sections 2 and 6 outline different circumstances and rights concerning works on a party wall or adjacent excavations and constructions. Both sections provide mechanisms for addressing damage,…

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Who is responsible for removing services that obstruct my works under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996?

Wednesday 12th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, when a Building Owner plans to construct a wall along the boundary line (known as the “line of junction”) and encounters existing services (such as pipes,…

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Importance of carrying out a Schedule Of Condition prior to taking up a commercial lease

Wednesday 12th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Entering into a commercial lease is a significant commitment, and understanding the property's condition before signing is crucial. A Schedule of Condition (SoC) serves as a…

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Access Rights for Works Adjacent to a Type B Party Wall: Understanding Your Legal Position

Wednesday 12th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Type B party walls are walls that are situated wholly on one owner's land but are used by two (or more) owners to separate their buildings. Under Section 2(2)(a) of the Party Wall etc. Act…

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Understanding Party Wall Works and the Importance of Providing Notice

Wednesday 12th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

When undertaking party wall works, one of the key legal considerations is whether access to a neighbour’s land is required. While there is no statutory notice period to commence works…

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Ensuring Professional Independence as a Chartered Witness

Wednesday 12th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

When concerns arise regarding my independence as a professional witness in neighbour disputes, it is important to clarify my role and responsibilities. As a chartered professional accredited by both the Royal Institution…

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Leinster Square W2: Retaining Wall Project

Wednesday 5th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Tayross Associates Ltd. (Chartered Building Surveyors) recently acted on behalf of a freeholder in Leinster Square, W2, concerning the construction of a retaining wall at the rear of the property. This project was…

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Cladding Removal and the Party Wall etc. Act 1996: Notification Requirements for Leaseholders

Wednesday 5th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, the requirement to serve notices depends on the nature of the works and whether they fall within the scope…

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Addressing Damp and Condensation Issues: Survey Recommendations

Wednesday 5th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Damp and condensation can significantly impact the comfort and structural integrity of a property. At a property in Buckhurst Hill, persistent issues with dampness and condensation have made the top-floor flat difficult to…

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The Evolution of Drainage Systems in the UK: From Combined to Separate Systems

Wednesday 5th February 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

In the United Kingdom, the design of drainage systems has evolved over time. Properties built in the 1930s often featured combined drainage systems, where both…

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Surveying 17th-Century Oak Framed Buildings: Key Issues, Risks and Considerations

Wednesday 29th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

When surveying a 17th-century oak-framed building, several key issues and potential disadvantages need to be carefully assessed, as these properties often have historical, structural, and maintenance complexities. Here’s…

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EWS1 Survey

Thursday 16th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

EWS1 Survey at Harley Street: A Prestigious Project by Tayross Chartered Building Surveyors. At Tayross Chartered Building Surveyors, we’re thrilled to announce our involvement in a prestigious project on Harley Street, one of London’s most iconic…

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Disadvantages of having a combination boiler in a four bedroom property

Thursday 16th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

1. Limited Hot Water Supply • Issue: Combi boilers provide hot water on demand, meaning they can only heat one tap…

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Protecting Roof Spaces: Why Ventilation Matters for Timber Maintenance

Thursday 16th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Discolouration and degradation of roof timbers can be caused by several factors, many of which are directly related to poor ventilation. In the case of your dormer-style bungalow without soffit or ridge ventilation,…

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How to Choose a Skilled Party Wall Surveyor: Expertise, Value, and Practical Guidance Beyond the Basics

Thursday 16th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

While I can't directly recommend specific individuals, I can guide you on how to find a qualified and reliable party wall surveyor. How to find a Party Wall…

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Neighbour’s Planning Permission: Protecting Your Services on a Gable Wall

Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

I have an end-of-terraced property which appears to have my services on the flank wall, including rainwater, waste pipes, and possibly a gas pipe along with…

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End of Terrace to Mid-Terrace: Can You Claim Compensation Under the Party Wall Act 1996?

Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

If you own an end-of-terrace property and your neighbour obtains planning permission to build on their site, effectively changing your property’s classification from an end-of-terrace to a mid-terrace, you may wonder if you are entitled…

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Can a Retrospective Party Wall Award Be Agreed Without Notices Being Served?

Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

In the world of property development and construction, adhering to the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is crucial for maintaining good relations with neighbouring owners and…

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Can You Raise Half a Party Wall? Key Considerations Under the Party Wall Act 1996

Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, a Building Owner Cannot Unilaterally Raise Half the Thickness of a Party Wall Entirely on Their Side Without Proper Procedure and…

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Can a Level 3 RICS Survey Confirm If Underpinning Has Stopped Movement?

Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Yes, it is expected that a Level 3 RICS Building Survey (previously known as a full structural survey) should confidently report on a property that has been underpinned due to past subsidence, provided…

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The 10 Essential Things You Need to Know About the Party Wall etc. Act 1996

Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

If you're planning building works that affect a shared wall, boundary, or structure, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 is a vital piece of legislation…

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Essential Information for Accurate Rebuild Valuations: A Guide for Insurance Purposes

Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

When a client requests a rebuild valuation (also known as a reinstatement cost assessment) of their property, a surveyor requires specific information to…

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What Happens When No Surveyors Are Appointed Before Notifiable Works: A Guide to Retrospective Resolutions Under the Party Wall Act

Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

If surveyors have not yet been appointed and the notifiable works under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 have already been completed; the situation becomes more procedurally complicated. However, the Act still provides a way forward. Here’s a…

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Surveyors’ Authority to Act Independently Under the Party Wall Act

Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, a surveyor does not need written permission from either the building owner or the adjoining owner to prepare or serve…

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Navigating the Party Wall Act: Retrospective Awards and Surveyors’ Role in Settling Disputes

Wednesday 8th January 2025
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

If the notifiable works under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 have been completed before the award has been served, the situation is procedurally irregular…

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What Happens If Notifiable Works Are Completed Before Party Wall Awards Are Served?

Tuesday 17th December 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

If the notifiable works under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 have been completed before the award has been served, the situation is procedurally irregular but not necessarily fatal to the process.…

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How to Prepare a Method Statement for Access to Your Neighbour's Property Under Section 8 of the Party Wall Act

Tuesday 17th December 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

To comply with Section 8 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, which allows a building owner to request access to a neighbour’s land to facilitate notifiable works, the builder should prepare…

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Why do I need a Party Wall Surveyor as a Building Owner?

Tuesday 17th December 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

As a Party Wall Surveyor appointed by the Building Owner, your role is to ensure that the Building Owner fulfils their legal obligations…

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Who Pays for Drainage Relocation and Alterations when Building Proposals Make It Inaccessible?

Tuesday 17th December 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

When advising a Building Owner constructing a rear extension adjacent to an existing rear extension of an Adjoining Owner, several key considerations must be addressed under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and general property law. A practical approach is…

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Successfully Navigating Section 6(1) Party Wall Works in Central London

Tuesday 17th December 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

The grandeur of London’s historic terraces brings beauty and charm to the capital but also unique challenges when construction or development works are involved. Recently, I had the…

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Do I have the right to move my side of the chimney stack?

Thursday 5th December 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

In the UK, if you intend to remove your side of a shared chimney stack at roof level, you are required to follow the procedures outlined in the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This…

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Security of Expenses

Thursday 5th December 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Security of expenses, under the Party Wall Act, is essentially a form of financial protection for the adjoining owner (the neighbour who might be affected by construction work). When someone plans to undertake construction work that affects…

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Exploring 200 Years of London's Architectural Evolution.

Friday 29th November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Over the past 200 years, London’s architectural landscape has evolved through several distinct periods, each characterised by unique styles and influences. Here’s an overview of these periods: 1. Regency Period (1811–1820): • Characteristics: Elegant and refined designs with a focus on symmetry and…

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Who Bears Responsibility for Reported Damage if the Building Owner Couldn't Conduct a Schedule of Condition Due to Lack of Access or Availability?

Friday 29th November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, if you serve a notice on your neighbour (adjoining owner) and they fail to respond within 14…

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Raising a Party Wall for a Rear Dormer Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996

Thursday 28th November 2024

Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, if a building owner wishes to build a dormer at the rear of their property and plans…

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Permitted Developments

Thursday 28th November 2024

Under the UK’s permitted development rights, the size of your garden does influence the allowable size of a rear extension for a terraced property. Key considerations…

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Can You Claim Adverse Possession of Land?

Thursday 28th November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Yes, you can claim adverse possession of land if you meet specific legal criteria, which generally include the following: Key Requirements…

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Main Differences Between a Conservation Area Tree and a TPO Tree

Monday 25th November 2024

When it comes to protecting trees in the UK, understanding the distinctions between Conservation Area trees and Tree Preservation Order (TPO) trees is…

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Can I Appoint My Party Wall Surveyor as an "Agreed Surveyor" on Behalf of My Neighbour?

Thursday 21st November 2024

When undertaking building works that may impact a shared party wall or boundary, one of the questions that often arises is whether you can appoint your own Party Wall Surveyor as an "Agreed Surveyor" on behalf…

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The Pitfalls of Serving Your Own Party Wall Notice

Thursday 21st November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Serving your own Party Wall Notice might seem like a cost-effective option, especially with the availability of free templates online. However, this approach…

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Do I need a Schedule of Condition when taking over a lease?

Thursday 21st November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

When taking over a lease, one of the most crucial steps is ensuring that the property’s condition is documented accurately. Without a Schedule of Condition, you risk inheriting liabilities for existing defects under a Full Repairing Lease. Here’s why this…

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Party Wall Dissent Options

Thursday 21st November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Understanding Party Wall Dissent Options: What You Need to Know If you're an Adjoining Owner approached with a Party Wall Notice, it's crucial to understand your rights and the options available to you. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for…

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The Importance Of A Schedule Of Condition Report

Thursday 21st November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Party Wall Schedule of Condition When it comes to Party Wall matters, a Schedule of Condition Report is an invaluable tool,…

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A Comprehensive Guide to Party Wall Definitions

Thursday 21st November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

When navigating the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, understanding its key definitions is essential. Misunderstandings can lead to disputes or improper application of the Act. At Tayross Associates, we believe in simplifying complex terminology so that both Building Owners…

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The True Value of a Schedule of Condition for a Commercial Lease

Thursday 21st November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

It’s surprising how many tenants sign commercial leases without securing a Schedule of Condition beforehand. This oversight can result in costly liabilities, particularly when dealing with properties that have long-standing defects or are in…

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How do I find a cost-effective Party Wall Surveyor?

Thursday 21st November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

When embarking on a building project, choosing the right Party Wall Surveyor can make a significant difference - not just in terms of cost, but also in ensuring a smooth and stress-free process. With over…

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Is it necessary to commission a detailed commercial building survey report when taking over an existing lease?

Thursday 21st November 2024
Carl O'Boyle BSc MRICS FCIOB MFPWS

Is it necessary to commission a detailed commercial building survey report when taking over an existing lease? When taking over an existing lease for…

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The Importance of Installing Roof Slates at the Correct Pitch

Wednesday 20th November 2024

When it comes to roofing, getting the pitch right is not just a matter of aesthetics – it’s a fundamental aspect of ensuring the roof performs effectively and remains durable…

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Understanding the Oedometer: How It Helps Predict Soil Settlement and Heave

Friday 15th November 2024

In geotechnical engineering, understanding soil behaviour under loads is crucial for designing safe and stable structures. An essential device used for this purpose is the oedometer. Let’s dive into what an oedometer does, how it works, and how it helps…

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Defect’s Liability Period – Final Inspection

Thursday 14th November 2024

Completing a large roof replacement project is a significant achievement, but the work doesn't stop there. To ensure the project's success, it is crucial to carry out a thorough inspection at the end of the…

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Understanding Key Property Documents: A Guide for Landlords and Tenants

Thursday 14th November 2024

When dealing with leases, it’s crucial to be familiar with essential property documents, such as the Schedule of Condition, Schedule of Dilapidations, and Scott Schedule.…

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Understanding Type B Party Walls under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996

Monday 11th November 2024

A Type B party wall, as defined by the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, is a wall that stands entirely on one owner’s land but serves as the separation between two buildings. The…

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What is a Level 3 Building Survey, and When Do You Need One?

Friday 8th November 2024

When purchasing a property, especially an older or more complex building, it’s essential to understand its condition thoroughly. A Level 3 building survey is…

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What is a Party Wall Surveyor, and When Do You Need One in London?

Wednesday 6th November 2024

If you’re planning a construction project in London, you may need to involve a party wall surveyor to ensure compliance with the Party Wall Act 1996. But what exactly does a party wall surveyor do, and…

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What are Dilapidations, and How Do They Affect Tenants and Landlords?

Monday 4th November 2024

In commercial leasing, "dilapidations" refer to a tenant's obligation to maintain a property according to the lease terms. These obligations, which often include repairs, maintenance, and reversing alterations, are crucial…

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How Valuable is Land in London, and Should I Get a Boundary Dispute Report if My Neighbour Has Encroached?

Friday 1st November 2024

London’s land is among the most valuable in the world. With high demand for both residential and commercial spaces, every square metre counts.…

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Understanding Dilapidations: What They Are and How Tayross Associates Can Help

Wednesday 30th October 2024

When it comes to leasing commercial properties, dilapidations are a crucial aspect for both landlords and tenants. For over 30 years, Tayross Associates has provided expert guidance on dilapidations, helping property owners and occupiers…

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Understanding the Party Wall Act 1996: Can You Underpin a Neighbour’s Wall if it is Not a Party Wall?

Monday 28th October 2024

In the world of property boundaries and structural work, the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 serves as a fundamental guide for homeowners, surveyors, and builders. One of the critical questions that often arises is: Can you underpin an…

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When Is the Best Time to Contact a Party Wall Surveyor?

Friday 25th October 2024

If you're planning construction or renovation works that might affect a shared wall, boundary, or involve excavation near a neighbouring…

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Excavating to the Same Level as a Neighbour: Understanding the Party Wall Act 1996

Wednesday 23rd October 2024

When undertaking construction or excavation work near a neighbouring property, it's essential to be aware of the legal obligations set out in the Party Wall etc. Act…

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Difference Between a PC Sum and a Provisional Sum in Construction Contracts

Monday 21st October 2024

In UK construction contracts, the terms "PC Sum" (Prime Cost Sum) and "Provisional Sum" are used to allocate budgets for certain parts of a project. While both deal with uncertainties, they serve distinct purposes and are handled differently.…

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General Overview of the Party Wall Act 1996

Friday 11th October 2024

1. Q: What is the Party Wall etc. Act 1996? A: It is legislation that provides a framework for preventing and resolving disputes in relation to party walls, boundary walls, and excavations near neighbouring buildings. 2. Q:…

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Who is Responsible for the Maintenance of a Retaining Wall?

Thursday 10th October 2024

In England, the responsibility for maintaining and repairing a retaining wall can be a complicated issue, often dependent on ownership of the wall and the…

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Penalties and Legal Consequences for Non-Compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022

Monday 7th October 2024

Non-compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022 can result in significant financial, legal, and criminal consequences for building owners, accountable persons, and other…

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Obtaining a Licence to Alter from the Freeholder in a Flat Development

Friday 4th October 2024

If you're planning alterations to your flat within a building development, securing a Licence to Alter from the freeholder is essential.…

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Understanding 'T' Marks on Deeds Maps: Property Boundaries and Responsibilities

Wednesday 2nd October 2024

In the UK, 'T' marks on deeds maps are a common way to indicate responsibility for boundary features such as fences, walls, and hedges. These marks help property owners understand who is…

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Understanding the Building Safety Act 2022: Roles, Responsibilities, and Compliance

Monday 30th September 2024

The Building Safety Act 2022 was introduced to improve safety standards in high-rise residential buildings across the UK. In response to the Grenfell Tower tragedy, the Act aims to clarify who is…

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What Qualifications and Professions Are Required to Carry Out an Inspection of an 18m Tall Building for Compliance with the Building Safety Act 2022 in London?

Thursday 26th September 2024

When it comes to assessing whether an 18-metre tall building complies with the Building Safety Act 2022 in the London area, the person conducting the inspection must have the appropriate qualifications and professional background. Ensuring that a…

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Compensation or Repair Under the Party Wall Act: A Guide to Section 2 Works

Friday 20th September 2024

Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, when works are notified under Section 2, which pertains to work on a party wall (such as cutting into, raising, or rebuilding it), the adjoining owner does not automatically have the…

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Provision for AC and DC Currents in Electrical Installations under BS 7671:2018+A2:2022

Wednesday 18th September 2024

The BS 7671:2018+A2:2022 standards, known as the 18th Edition of the IET Wiring Regulations, provide guidelines for managing both AC (alternating current) and DC (direct current) in electrical installations. With the increasing use of renewable energy systems…

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Ground and Heat Recovery Systems: Efficient Heating Solutions for UK Homes

Monday 16th September 2024

Ground and heat recovery systems are gaining popularity for domestic heating in the UK due to their energy efficiency and ability to reduce carbon emissions. Below are the key systems and their benefits: 1. Ground Source Heat Pumps…

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What is the Difference Between a Homebuyer Report and a Building Survey?

Friday 13th September 2024

Introduction When buying a property, understanding its true condition is essential. Two popular types of surveys help buyers assess the state of a property: the Homebuyer Report (Level 2)…

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What is a Party Wall Agreement and Do I Need One?

Wednesday 11th September 2024

Introduction If you’re planning to carry out building work that affects a shared wall with your neighbour, it’s essential to understand the importance of a…

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How Can a Contract Administrator Help Avoid Disputes in Construction?

Monday 9th September 2024

Introduction Disputes in construction projects often arise due to miscommunication, project changes, or delays. These issues can lead to costly disruptions and strained relationships. A skilled contract administrator can play a vital role in avoiding such…

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Considerations for Stepping Away from a Party Wall Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996

Monday 9th September 2024

Under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, the Building Owner is not explicitly required to maintain a specific distance from the party wall when constructing a new structure. However, there are practical considerations and responsibilities related…

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What is Ground 13 of the schedule to the housing act 1988?

Friday 6th September 2024

In the UK, Ground 13 of Schedule 2 of the Housing Act 1988 is a legal provision that allows a landlord to seek possession of a property from…

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What Does a Surveyor Look For When Conducting an Electrical Check as Part of a Level 3 Survey?

Wednesday 4th September 2024

A RICS (Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors) surveyor typically assesses various aspects of a domestic property's condition during a Level 3 Building Survey, including the electrical…

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A Tenant's Guide to Understanding Dilapidations: What You Need to Know Before Signing a Lease

Monday 2nd September 2024

When entering into a commercial lease, it’s essential for tenants to fully understand the concept of dilapidations and how they can impact their financial obligations at the end of the tenancy. Dilapidations refer to the breaches of a lease agreement…

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Top Common Dilapidation Issues and How to Avoid Them

Friday 30th August 2024

Introduction Dilapidations refer to the breaches of lease agreements related to the condition of a commercial property when it is returned to the landlord at the end of a tenancy. These breaches can lead to costly disputes and repairs…

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Understanding the Costs and Value of a Level 3 Building Survey

Wednesday 28th August 2024

Introduction When purchasing a property, particularly an older or larger one, understanding its true condition is crucial. A Level 3 Building Survey, also known as a Full Structural Survey, is the most comprehensive assessment available, offering detailed…

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Common Disputes in Party Wall Matters and How to Resolve Them

Monday 26th August 2024

When undertaking construction that involves a shared wall or boundary, disputes with neighbours can arise, despite the guidance of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. Understanding these disputes and how to resolve them is essential. At Tayross…

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Understanding the Party Wall Act: What Homeowners Need to Know Before Starting Construction

Friday 23rd August 2024

When planning construction that involves a shared wall or boundary, it's essential to understand the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. This legislation protects both…

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What is a Level 3 Building Survey and When Do You Need One?

Wednesday 21st August 2024

When buying a property, especially one that's older, larger, or has undergone significant alterations, understanding its true condition is essential. A Level 3 Building Survey, the most comprehensive survey available, provides a deep dive into the property's…

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How to Prepare for a Dilapidations Inspection: A Landlord's Guide

Tuesday 20th August 2024

As a landlord, ensuring your property is well-maintained and in good condition is key to protecting your investment. One critical aspect of property management is preparing for a dilapidations inspection, especially as…

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The Benefits of Early Engagement: Why You Should Involve a Party Wall Surveyor at the Start of Your Project

Friday 16th August 2024

Introduction When planning a construction or renovation project, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of design and development. However, one critical aspect that often gets overlooked until it’s too…

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Understanding the Different Types of Building Surveys and Why Tayross Associates Recommends a Level 3 Survey

Wednesday 14th August 2024

Introduction When purchasing a property, one of the most crucial steps is ensuring that the building is in good condition. This is where building surveys come into…

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