RICS in London: NELA - The Pitfalls of a Building Surveyor- and how to avoid them

Overview

This CPD session, “The Pitfalls of a Building Surveyor – and How to Avoid Them”, draws on over 40 years of professional experience in building surveying and expert witness work. The lecture will highlight common technical and professional pitfalls encountered in practice, using real-world examples to show where problems typically arise and how they can be avoided. Topics will include professional judgement, risk management, client communication, and lessons learned from disputes and litigation.

The session is intended to provide practical guidance that attendees can apply in their own work, with time allowed for questions and discussion.

J W WATES MA (Oxon) BSc FRICS MTPS, Managing Director - Fedalah Ltd

• Chartered Surveyor with over 40 years’ professional experience
• Founder and Managing Director of Fedalah Ltd, Chartered Building Surveyors, London
• Educated to master’s level at Brasenose College, University of Oxford
• Fellow of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (FRICS) and Expert Witness
• Holds non-executive appointments with several large organisations and is highly active in the voluntary sector

I founded Fedalah Ltd in August 2009. The practice specialises in structural surveys, party wall matters, and the design and detailing of works to existing buildings. Fedalah is a well-established, profitable consultancy with a strong base of long-standing and repeat private and commercial clients.

As an Expert Witness, I am regularly instructed in both civil and criminal matters relating to buildings and construction. I have given evidence in court on numerous occasions, including before a jury in a criminal trial.