Party Wall Act - owner now trying to claim all expenses for works due to me disputing initially

FreeBear

goldfrapp said:

FreeBear said:

goldfrapp said: then 02-12-2024 I had a letter from the owners solicitor that I have been unreasonable and basically the £6000 he has had to pay for the flue he wants back and he’s not gutted the fire yet he would not allow the contractor to do this he wants to do it himself which is illegal

There is very little work that one can do to a house that is "illegal". Without proper qualifications, working with gas appliances is about the only thing that would fall under the heading of "illegal". One is permitted to undertake a wide range of work on a property, and very little requires any formal qualifications.

Hi

to install a multi fuel stove you have to be HETAS or other qualified the owner once he removed the fire board fitted by the installer he is breaking the law as per regulations for a wood/multi fuel stove

Still wrong. The "law" allows for anyone to install their own stove. However, it is classed as a "notifiable works" which should be signed off by Building Control to confirm that it meets minimum requirements. A HETAS registered installer can do the work and self certify the installation (and in the process, notify Building Control), but it is not a legal requirement to use a HETAS installer.

If (and it is a big if) this ever goes to court, claiming something is "illegal" or "breaking the law" will do your defence no good what so ever. Instead, focus on non-compliance with Building Regulations and failures to adhere to any Party Wall agreements.

ThisIsWeird

Could anyone confirm what the remit of a PW surveyor is, please?