Expert witness
Independent, evidence-based reports on building defects, disrepair and construction disputes — written for the court, and for the people who have to read them.
What it is
In plain English
An expert’s duty is to the court, not to the party paying the fee. Our reports set out what was inspected, what was found and the reasons for our opinion, in plain English.
We prepare reports in line with Part 35 of the Civil Procedure Rules and its Practice Direction, attend joint inspections, contribute to joint statements with the other side’s expert and, where needed, give evidence.
Typical instructions include housing disrepair claims, building defect and workmanship disputes, party wall disputes and appeals, dilapidations, and professional negligence claims against other surveyors and designers.
Who it’s for
Solicitors
Claimant or defendant instructions, or as a single joint expert.
Landlords & housing providers
Disrepair claims assessed on the evidence.
Owners
Disputes over defects, workmanship or damage from neighbouring works.
Deliverables
| Deliverable | What you receive | When |
|---|---|---|
| Initial review | Conflict check and review of the papers | On enquiry |
| Inspection | Attended inspection with photographic record | As agreed |
| Expert report | CPR Part 35-compliant report with statement of truth | 4 to 6 weeks from inspection, or to the court timetable |
| Joint statement | Narrowing the issues with the other expert | As directed |
| Evidence | Attendance at hearing or trial | As directed |
Typical timescale
How it runs
- Step 01
Instruction
Letter of instruction and papers.
- Step 02
Inspect
Attended inspection.
- Step 03
Report
Part 35 report issued.
- Step 04
Directions
Questions, joint statement, hearing.
Common questions
Common questions about expert witness work
Not answered here? Call 01245 460222 and speak to a surveyor.
Who do you act for?
Claimants, defendants, or as a single joint expert. Whoever instructs us, our duty is to the court, and our opinion is the same whichever side asks the question.
What types of case do you take on?
Housing disrepair claims, building defect and workmanship disputes, party wall disputes and appeals, dilapidations, and professional negligence claims against other surveyors and designers.
Are your reports CPR compliant?
Yes. Reports follow Part 35 of the Civil Procedure Rules and its Practice Direction, with the required statement of truth and declaration.
Will you attend court?
Yes. We attend joint inspections, meetings of experts, prepare joint statements and give oral evidence where required.
Can you give early advice before proceedings?
Yes. An advisory report or desktop review before proceedings start helps solicitors and clients test the merits of a claim before committing to it.
Talk to a surveyor about expert witness.
Send the address and a few lines on what you need. Or call 01245 460222.
