Job summary

Local Authority client in Oxfordshire seeking interim Party Wall / Legal Disrepair Surveyor on an initial 6-9 month contract, 50 / 50 hybrid working. For more information please call Adam @ Matchetch on 01489 898881.

Key skills required for this role

Party Wall, Disrepair Surveyor

Important

Disrepair / Party Wall Experience

Job description

Our local authority client is seeking a skilled Disrepair / Party Wall Surveyor for a contract position. This role involves managing disrepair claims and handling party wall matters to ensure compliance with relevant legislation and standards.

Key Responsibilities:

• Disrepair Claims Management:
  • Inspect properties in response to tenant complaints regarding disrepair (e.g., damp, mould, structural issues).
  • Prepare detailed reports highlighting the extent of damage, necessary repairs, and any potential health and safety risks.
  • Liaise with contractors to schedule repairs, ensuring work is completed to the required standard.
  • Ensure compliance with the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, particularly with regard to Section 11 (repair obligations).
  • Communicate with tenants to provide updates and resolve any issues related to the disrepair process.
• Party Wall Surveying:
  • Advise on the Party Wall etc. Act 1996, ensuring compliance with legal obligations related to party wall works (e.g., renovations, extensions).
  • Serve Party Wall Notices to relevant parties and assess the potential impact of works on neighbouring properties.
  • Prepare and negotiate Party Wall Agreements (Awards) between tenants and property owners.
  • Conduct inspections and provide impartial advice on any disputes arising from party wall matters.
  • Ensure disputes are handled professionally, minimising the impact on tenants and neighbouring residents.
• Surveying and Inspection:
  • Carry out property surveys to identify structural issues or potential disrepair.
  • Provide accurate measurements, photographs, and condition reports.
  • Assess health and safety risks, particularly related to damp and mould, and advise on immediate remedial actions.
• Compliance and Regulation:
  • Ensure all work carried out adheres to housing regulations, health and safety guidelines, and environmental standards.
  • Keep up-to-date with relevant housing legislation, including updates to building regulations and the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
  • Advise housing associations and local authorities on compliance with legal standards and best practices in maintenance and repair.
• Tenant and Stakeholder Liaison:
  • Act as the primary contact for tenants regarding disrepair complaints and party wall disputes.
  • Liaise with housing management teams, contractors, legal teams, and external surveyors to coordinate works and resolve issues efficiently.
  • Provide clear communication and ensure transparency throughout the process for all stakeholders.

Skills and Qualifications:

• Essential:
  • Relevant qualification in building surveying (e.g., RICS-accredited degree or HNC/HND in building studies, surveying, or a related field).
  • Strong knowledge of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 and Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
  • Experience in managing disrepair claims and handling party wall disputes.
  • Excellent communication skills for dealing with tenants, contractors, and housing authorities.
  • Knowledge of health and safety regulations and housing standards, particularly HHSRS.
• Desirable:
  • Membership with a professional body such as the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) or the Chartered Institute of Building (CIOB).
  • Experience working within social housing or local authority settings.

If you have a background in building surveying and are well-versed in disrepair and party wall matters, we would love to hear from you. Apply now and join our client's dedicated team in managing and resolving housing issues efficiently and professionally.