Rutland Mews South, Knightsbridge, SW7
The Instruction
Our client owned a residential mews property in Knightsbridge adjoining a neighbouring property where substantial building works were proposed.
Stokemont were instructed to undertake a Party Wall Schedule of Condition before the neighbouring works commenced.
The proposed works included a basement conversion and extension, making it particularly important to establish an accurate record of the property’s existing condition before construction activity began.
The Property
The property formed part of an established mews development within Knightsbridge, characterised by closely positioned residential properties.
The proximity of the properties and the nature of the proposed basement works meant that careful consideration was required when recording the condition of the building before works commenced.
Key Survey Findings
Existing Condition
We inspected the relevant accessible areas of the property and recorded the condition of the building fabric, finishes and other features that could potentially be relevant during the neighbouring works.
Pre-Works Record
The inspection established a detailed baseline of the property’s condition before the commencement of the adjoining construction project.
Basement Works
The proposed basement conversion and extension represented a substantial programme of works in close proximity to the property. The pre-works condition record was therefore particularly important in establishing the condition of the building before construction activity began.
Photographic Evidence
Photographs were taken to supplement the written observations and provide a clear visual record of the condition observed at the time of inspection.
Our Advice
We advised that the Schedule of Condition should be retained throughout the construction period as an objective record of the property’s pre-existing condition.
Where neighbouring works involve substantial structural alterations or basement construction, a detailed condition record can be particularly valuable if changes to the condition of adjoining property are subsequently alleged.
The Outcome
Stokemont provided a detailed Party Wall Schedule of Condition recording the condition of the property before the neighbouring basement works commenced.
The report established an independent baseline against which any subsequent changes could be considered, helping to protect the interests of the adjoining owner throughout the construction process.
The instruction demonstrated the importance of thorough pre-works documentation where significant construction activity is proposed close to an adjoining property.
Stokemont provides Party Wall surveying services, including Schedules of Condition, for building owners and adjoining owners undertaking or affected by construction works throughout London and the surrounding areas.
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