Party Wall Dispute

Went onto local surveyorsdirect and found a few surveyors in the area, one emailed me - looks promising, been quoted nearly half that figure now £540!

 

Surveyor just turned up, seems very professional and knows what he's on about.

I have formally appointed him to act on my behalf, so everything is now underway.

Well worth to cost.

 

PW surveyor has just been out today and carried out a schedule of conduit for one neighbor. She is content for the works to go ahead and signed to say that work can begin earlier than the normal 2 month notice period. But has made it clear that no access into the loft by contractors. The pw surveyor discussed stitch drilling some of the bricks and chopping them out in situ to avoid making good to her side.

The other neighbors have only been here less then 12months so are only on an introductory tenancy with the council, so are not able to sign, but a schedule of condition will be arranged for their side too.

 

The notice will be going to the chief executive of the council, as he/her only has the authority to consent, but I'm sure their senior surveyor will go over everything. They have 14 days to either consent or dispute.

Could got a bit more expensive, if dispute arises.

 

The quote has come through, and it will cost £6100 for the beams .

Steels on the other hand are about £1500 (this includes the floor joists as well).

 

This is based on a 'velux' loft room conversion only. If a dormer is to be added then the beams would need flitch plates added, also a ridge beam - this they wont supply which could add more to the cost. When I initially contacted them the quote came out to 5K which would have been more affordable.

Steels would have allowed a dormer to be added to the back and according to the architect would have added more value to the house, as it would have included and en-suite. The height isn't terribly high either, and the plans from them show a height of 2.1m.

The council still have 7 days to reply or it will go to dispute, and could become more costly..

 

Revived contact form the PW surveyor today, unfortunately the council have dissented for both properties, although this may not seem they are disputing the works, but require and 'award' for reassurance that everything is carried in in a safe manner and to high standards. They have also mentioned to use their own surveyor for the works (not sure of what they are likely to charge).

As part of the award a 'Method statement' is required, PW surveyor mentions that a reputable builder would supply this on request, has anyone done anything like this?

 

Just had a estimate come through from a building contractor to do the loft would cost £53k

 

I'll wait a while and see if I get a reply from the council, but I am not holding and hopes and have a feeling it's not going to be a quick response.

I would still go ahead with the telebeam proposal if the option fails, I have done quite a lot of work in preparation for the loft anyway, like fire doors upstairs, and minor wall re-positioning, so far it has costed quite a bit after employing architect and other fees (maybe under £3000).

Even if it is limited head room, I still think it is a good idea as would potentially be a 3 bed house as opposed to 2up2 down.

I plan on doing most myself if its just going to be 'velux' loft conversion.

 

Had a reply back from the PW surveyor, and the council are requesting to see a method statement as he mentioned.

Its basically a statement to show how the work will be carried out to ensure

I think I will have to end up writing this up, builders so far have not been interested in the job after posting job.