Apex Architecture provides professional advice when resolving disputes within the building industry. We act as expert witnesses and undertake projects where existing working relationships have soured.

 

Unfortunately not every project runs smoothly and sometimes relationships break down between Client and Contractor, and occasionally between the Client and Architect, to such an extent that they reach deadlock. At this stage Apex will look at the project in detail and sort out, in a fair and reasonable manner, what has gone wrong. Often it may be just a case of a lack of communication, or a misunderstanding of the contractual requirements. Whatever is wrong, Apex will try to resolve all issues by negotiation. If a solution cannot be achieved by negotiation it may be necessary to take a dispute to Court, and if it does, we will act as an expert witness.

 

Another contentious area is the boundary between properties and there are two specific types of issue where Apex can assist. The first is a boundary dispute where one neighbour will argue with the other about the boundary line and whether it has been moved or not. In a case like this our Chartered Building Surveyor will look at the title deeds or any other such legal document, and then survey the boundary to see if there are any differences. The second is what is known as ‘The Party Wall Award under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, this applies when someone wishes to carry out building work of some description, which will potentially affect a neighbouring property. Under the Party Wall...Act there is a set of rules that must be followed; from notification of the neighbour, to the appointing of an independent party wall surveyor if necessary.

 

Apex believe that when things go awry, our expertise helps to make our Client’s lives a little less stressful.

 

Published: Apex Newsletter: September 2008