High Street Kensington, London, W8
The Instruction
Our client was undertaking substantial internal refurbishment works to a mid-level flat on High Street Kensington, London.
We were instructed to provide Party Wall surveying services in connection with the proposed works, which included the removal of internal structural walls, the installation of new steelwork and alterations to floors and ceilings.
Given the nature of the proposed works and the relationship between the flat and the wider building, the requirements of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 needed to be considered and addressed before the works commenced.
The Property
The property formed part of a larger residential building within High Street Kensington, an established and highly sought-after area of West London.
The proposed works involved significant alterations to the internal arrangement of the flat, including changes affecting structural elements and the building fabric.
Key Considerations
Removal of Structural Walls
The proposed removal of internal structural walls represented a significant alteration to the existing construction. The Party Wall implications of the works were considered as part of the statutory process.
New Structural Steelwork
New steel supports were proposed to maintain the structural integrity of the building following the removal of existing walls. The proposed works therefore required careful consideration of their interaction with the existing structure.
Floors and Ceilings
The refurbishment also involved alterations to existing floors and ceilings. These works were considered in the context of the wider building and the potential effects of the construction on adjoining parts of the property.
Protection of Adjoining Owners
As with any works falling within the scope of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, appropriate consideration was given to protecting the interests of adjoining owners and establishing a clear framework within which the works could proceed.
Our Advice
We advised on the Party Wall requirements arising from the proposed works and assisted with the statutory process through to completion of the Party Wall Award.
The process provided an opportunity to properly document the proposed works, establish the rights and obligations of the relevant parties and set appropriate conditions for the works to proceed.
Our role was to provide independent surveying advice and ensure that the Party Wall matters were dealt with in accordance with the requirements of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996.
The Outcome
Stokemont successfully assisted with the completion of the Party Wall Award, providing the client with a clear statutory framework within which the proposed refurbishment works could proceed.
The project demonstrated the importance of obtaining appropriate Party Wall advice where substantial internal alterations involve structural elements or works that may affect adjoining owners.
By addressing the Party Wall requirements before construction commenced, the client was able to progress the proposed refurbishment with the relevant statutory matters properly considered.
Stokemont provides Party Wall surveying services to building owners and adjoining owners throughout London and the surrounding areas, including advice on notices, schedules of condition, Party Wall Awards and works affecting party structures.
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