Expert Witness

I provide independent expert witness reports for solicitors and private clients on property and construction disputes across London and the South East.

My work combines property inspections, review of relevant documents and reasoned professional opinion. I explain the technical findings in clear language, helping those involved understand the issues, the evidence and the remedial work required.

Matters I can assist with

I accept instructions within my building surveying expertise, including:

• Housing disrepair and property condition.

• Damp, mould, condensation and water ingress.

• Building defects and failures.

• Defective workmanship and construction disputes.

• Boundary disputes involving documentary and physical evidence.

The scope is agreed at the outset so that the inspection and report address the particular questions relevant to the dispute.

What does an expert witness report cover?

The content depends on the instruction and the evidence available. A report can address:

• The condition of the property and defects identified.

• The causes of defects and the evidence supporting that opinion.

• The implications of the findings.

• Appropriate remedial works and their estimated costs.

• Further investigation needed to resolve outstanding technical questions.

Photographs, measurements and relevant documents support the findings where appropriate. For housing disrepair matters, a Scott Schedule can also be prepared to set out the individual issues, findings, remedial works and costs.

I distinguish between my own observations, information reported by others, documentary evidence and professional opinion. I explain significant limitations and identify where the available evidence is insufficient to reach a firm conclusion.

Inspections and investigations

Inspections are normally visual and non-intrusive, with their extent determined by the agreed instruction, access and conditions at the property.

Where opening up, specialist testing or additional investigation is needed, I explain what is required and why. These investigations are agreed separately.

Relevant background information can be important, including previous reports, repair records, correspondence, photographs, drawings and documents identifying the matters in dispute.

Independent expert evidence and CPR Part 35

For civil proceedings in England and Wales, I prepare expert reports in accordance with CPR Part 35, Practice Direction 35 and the relevant court directions.

When acting as an expert witness, my overriding duty is to assist the court on matters within my expertise. This duty takes priority over obligations to the person instructing or paying me.

My opinions are impartial and based on the evidence. I consider material that supports or challenges my conclusions and explain the reasons for the opinion reached.

Work beyond the initial report

An instruction may also require responses to written questions, review of further evidence, supplementary reports or discussions with other experts.

Following expert discussions, joint statements can record the matters agreed, the points of disagreement and the reasons for those differences. Court attendance can also form part of the instruction where required.

The scope, fees and timetable for these services are addressed as part of the appointment and any subsequent instructions.

Why choose Rectory Surveyors?

I am Iftkhar Ahamed, director of Rectory Surveyors Ltd, an independent firm regulated by RICS.

I bring more than 20 years’ experience in building surveying, defect investigation and practical remedial advice. My approach combines careful examination of the evidence with clear explanations of the findings and their significance.

Disability accommodation needs

I also prepare independent expert reports on accommodation requirements arising from injury or disability.

My assessment considers the suitability of existing accommodation, the feasibility of alterations or extensions, and any requirements for alternative accommodation. I consider relevant medical, occupational therapy and care evidence alongside my assessment of the property.

Depending on the instruction, this can include evaluating accommodation options, preparing proposed layouts and estimating the cost of adaptation works. I explain the practical constraints, assumptions and reasons for my conclusions, identifying where further investigation or specialist advice is needed.

The scope is agreed at the outset, with my opinion confined to matters within my building surveying and adaptations expertise.

Discuss an expert witness instruction

Please send the property address, a brief summary of the dispute, the names of the parties involved and any relevant documents. Include the questions you need addressed and any reporting or court deadlines.

I will review the proposed instruction, check for conflicts of interest and confirm whether the matters fall within my expertise. The scope, fees and anticipated timetable are agreed before work begins.

Call 020 7249 4954 or 07904 874 348

Email info@rectorysurveyors.co.uk