What Are Dilapidations? A Guide for Commercial Landlords & Tenants
Dilapidations are breaches of the repair, decoration and reinstatement obligations set out in a commercial lease, together with the financial claim a landlord can make to put those items right. In plain terms, they cover the gap between the condition your premises are actually in and the condition your lease says they should be in […]
Schedule of Condition: How It Protects You at Lease End
Signing a commercial lease is a serious financial commitment, and the repairing clauses buried in the small print can prove costly when the term comes to an end. A schedule of condition is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself from paying for wear, damage or defects that were never yours […]
Party Wall Surveyor Cost: Who Pays, How Much & What to Expect
If you are planning an extension, a loft conversion or any building work that affects a wall you share with a neighbour, one question usually comes up before all the others. What will the party wall surveyor cost, and who actually has to pay for it? It is a sensible thing to ask, because these […]
Does a Loft Conversion Need Planning Permission? Everything You Need to Know
Thinking about a loft conversion? Most homes in England can go ahead without planning permission under permitted development rights, but the rules are more complex than you might expect. From volume limits to conservation areas, this guide covers everything you need to know before work begins. This guide walks you through exactly when planning permission […]
Party Wall Act Section 6 Explained: Key Rights and Responsibilities
Clear Guidance on Excavation Near Neighbouring Properties Planning excavation work near a neighbouring building is not just a construction decision, it is a legal one. Section 6 of the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 sets out strict obligations that must be followed before any excavation begins. Whether you are planning a basement, extension or drainage […]
Common Issues Found During a Roof Survey and How to Address Them
The roof is one of the most important structural components of a property, but it is frequently neglected until defects begin to show internally. A professional roof survey identifies defects early, protects your investment and prevents small issues from developing into costly structural repairs. At Simmons Taylor Hall, our RICS Chartered Building Surveyors carry out […]
What Is a Dilapidation Case? A Guide for Landlords & Tenants
Dilapidation cases are a common source of dispute at the end of a commercial lease, yet they are often misunderstood by both landlords and tenants. Whether you own a commercial property or occupy one, understanding how dilapidations work can help you avoid unexpected costs, delays, and legal complications. A dilapidation case arises when a landlord […]
Project Management in Construction Services: How Simmons Taylor Hall Ensures Success
Managing a building project is no small task. Even with the best design and contractors, without strong oversight, projects can quickly run into delays, spiralling budgets, or non-compliance with regulations. At Simmons Taylor Hall, we provide professional project management services for both residential and commercial projects. Every scheme we manage is Partner-led, giving you direct […]
Party Wall Surveyor Costs: Who Pays and What to Expect?
When building or altering a property that shares a boundary with another, it’s essential to understand your responsibilities under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. One of the most frequently asked questions we hear at Simmons Taylor Hall is: Who pays the party wall surveyor’s fees? The answer isn’t always straightforward and can depend on […]
Fence Ownership Disputes: Who Owns the Fence and How to Resolve Issues
Fence ownership disputes are one of the most common causes of tension between neighbours across the UK. Whether it’s an argument over who should pay for a leaning panel or confusion over whether you can legally paint or attach plants to a boundary fence, it’s essential to understand your rights and responsibilities. Check your title […]
