When property issues arise, such as defects or disputes over workmanship, employing a qualified building surveyor to undertake a specific defects report or an expert witness report can be a game-changer. Not only does it bring credibility and authority to a client’s case, but it can also prevent costly delays and disputes, saving both time and money.

At RMA Surveyors, we have seen first-hand the benefits that a professionally prepared report can bring to our clients. Our recent instructions to assess defective workmanship in a domestic extension and investigate a leaking conservatory roof demonstrate how expert insight can quickly resolve disputes in favour of our clients, often without the need for prolonged legal battles.

The Importance of Professional Expertise

Qualified Chartered Building Surveyors are governed by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), the leading body in the property and construction industry. This governing authority ensures that surveyors follow strict protocols, including established standards and ethical guidelines. A building surveyor’s report carries significant weight in legal and property-related matters because of their training, experience, and adherence to RICS protocols.

A report prepared by a RICS-qualified surveyor cannot be easily dismissed. To challenge it, an opposing party would need to present an equally qualified or more experienced surveyor, whose report would need to be of a comparable or higher standard. This high threshold makes it less likely that unqualified or inexperienced individuals can successfully dispute a professional report, significantly strengthening the client’s case.

How Expert Reports Prevent Arguments and Save Time

In property disputes, a lack of clarity can often lead to drawn-out arguments, escalating costs, and wasted time. A well-prepared specific defects report can cut through the confusion and provide a clear, authoritative assessment of the issues at hand. Whether it’s defective workmanship, material failures, or general construction defects, the detailed analysis presented by a chartered surveyor can often prevent disagreements from spiralling into protracted legal battles.

A professional surveyor’s report will outline the problem, the potential cause, and the remedial actions required, offering a pathway towards resolution. In many cases, this report will lead to a swift settlement, as the detailed evidence provided makes it difficult for the other party to continue to dispute the claim without substantial evidence of their own.

For example, RMA Surveyors was recently instructed to investigate a leaking conservatory roof for a client facing ongoing water ingress issues. After a thorough inspection, we provided a comprehensive report that identified the defects in the roofing materials and the workmanship involved in the original construction. Armed with our report, the client was able to swiftly reach a settlement with the contractor, who could not dispute the clear evidence provided by an RICS-accredited professional.

In another recent instruction, we were asked to assess defective workmanship in a domestic extension, where issues such as poor brickwork and inadequate waterproofing were causing significant problems for the homeowner. Our report highlighted the specific failings in both the design and construction processes, giving the client a robust foundation to negotiate a settlement. The contractor in this case quickly agreed to rectification works, avoiding a potentially lengthy and costly court case.

Why Choose RMA Surveyors?

RMA Surveyors is a team of fully qualified Chartered Building Surveyors with extensive experience in both specific defects reports and expert witness services. We are proud to provide clients with the highest standard of service, underpinned by our strict adherence to RICS standards.

Our expert reports bring the authority needed to support your case, whether it’s for a construction defect, poor workmanship, or any property-related dispute. Employing a professional surveyor not only gives you peace of mind but also places you in the best possible position to resolve your issues quickly and cost-effectively.

When disputes do arise, the professional standing of a chartered surveyor’s report can prevent unnecessary arguments, keeping the focus on solving the problem at hand rather than getting bogged down in drawn-out legal conflicts.

Key Benefits of a Chartered Building Surveyor’s Report:

• Credibility and Authority: A professionally prepared report carries significant weight in any legal or dispute resolution process, making it harder for others to contest.
• Adherence to RICS Protocols: Surveyors must comply with RICS protocols, ensuring accuracy, reliability, and professionalism.
• Prevents Arguments: A well-prepared defects or expert witness report can clarify issues, preventing disagreements from escalating into legal disputes.
• Saves Time and Money: By offering a clear, professional opinion, disputes can often be resolved more quickly, avoiding lengthy and costly court proceedings.
• Legal and Industry Respect: In most cases, the only way to rebut a surveyor’s report is through a similar report from an equally or more qualified professional, setting a high bar for any opposition.

Conclusion

Instructing a qualified Chartered Building Surveyor to undertake a specific defects report or expert witness report is an investment in both the short and long-term outcomes of any property-related dispute. Not only does it lend weight and credibility to your case, but it also helps prevent arguments, save time, and significantly reduce the potential for costly legal proceedings. At RMA Surveyors, we are committed to providing our clients with the highest standards of professional service, helping you achieve swift and fair resolutions to your property issues.

To discuss how we can assist with your property-related needs, contact RMA Surveyors today. Let our professional expertise work to your advantage.