Expert Witnesses

High standards

We are fully conversant with the requirements for giving Expert Witness evidence whether in writing or in Court. This must be unbiased and based on the witness’s areas of expertise. It must be based on meticulous research and careful consideration of the factors affecting the opinions we give.

We are familiar with the Civil Procedure Rules (CPR), Family Procedure Rules (FPR) and the Criminal Procedure Rules. Our reports are prepared in accordance with these as appropriate. We also follow the requirements of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors. These are set down in Surveyors Acting as Expert Witnesses: Practice Statement.

Independence

Before taking on an instruction, we will ensure we can express an independent opinion and that we do not have a conflict of interest.

In certain types of case it is now common for a single joint expert to be appointed.  The expert provides a report, that is paid for jointly by the parties to the dispute, on behalf of the Court. This is designed to reduce time and costs. It means that it is far less likely the surveyor will be called upon to give evidence at Court.

In some cases each party will have their own expert advisor. Although at an early stage the role will be to advise the client and their lawyers tactically, there is a point in the process where the advisor’s role changes. Any report that will be disclosed to the Court or the other party must be objective and non-partisan. The over-riding duty of the expert is to the Court. The objective is to assist the Court in reaching a fair settlement of the dispute.

Experience

We have built up good relationships with numerous litigation solicitors, matrimonial lawyers and trading standards departments. Most of our work is obtained by recommendation. We are happy to discuss potential instructions informally before accepting instructions.

Our experts have many years of relevant experience and they are leading surveyors in their field in Sheffield and the surrounding areas.

Mike Hull has over 37 years’ experience as a valuer, has an Advanced Professional Award in Expert Witness Evidence and specialises in:

• Lease renewals
• Valuation disputes
• Retrospective valuations
• Matrimonial cases
• Negligence cases
• Contract disputes
• S.18 valuations in dilapidations claims

David Battell has over 37 years experience as a building surveyor and specialises in:

• Building defects
• Identifying specific problems
• Defective workmanship including work by rogue traders
• Dilapidations claims
• Subsidence and structural failures
• Contract disputes