Building and property
Information on the structure and fabric of a building is vital to investors, commercial owners and occupiers not just before the acquisition of a property, but also during the ownership and/or occupation of the building and at the time of sale. We can advise on the structure and fabric of a building, its ongoing maintenance requirements, insurance considerations and its accessibility.
Building Surveys
Building Surveys provide essential advice for prospective owners or occupiers of property about a building’s condition and potential as well as the risks and liabilities they may inherit on completion of a property transaction. In relation to investors, pre-acquisition surveys are integral to the due diligence process. We can provide cost-effective, quality information in a timely manner.
Planned maintenance
Planned maintenance schedules (PMSs) identify and quantify a programme of works to a building’s fabric and services. This is usually scheduled over a 5-20 year period. A quality PMS provides a bespoke plan of action for a building to ensure that its condition (and therefore its value as an asset) is preserved or even increased. Value for money is always a priority when service charges are a factor. A well planned and detailed schedule is therefore a necessity.
Building audits
Building audits provide an in-depth, snap-shot analysis of a building’s performance. These audits are focused on particular issues such as health and safety, the assessment of fire risk or access and facilities for disabled people. Since the introduction of the Disability Discrimination Act (DDA) in 1995 access audits have become increasingly viewed as a first. Their importance of improving accessibility has resulted in their importance for employers and service providers whether as owners, occupiers or end-users.
Reinstatement Cost Assessments
Reinstatement Cost Assessments (RCAs) are estimations of the cost of rebuilding property following total destruction. They represent the total sum that the property should be insured for. This is a highly technical exercise as many factors influence reinstatement costs. We seek to save time and money by providing all the information you need to apportion costs easily.
Dispute resolution
Dispute resolution is best achieved without the need to go to court. However, if a dispute cannot be dealt with through negotiations another means will be necessary. There are various options available to the parties. Whichever option is chosen, we can provide the necessary expertise that ensures the best chance of success, whether that is through the traditional litigation process or alternative mechanisms.
