header-logo header-logo

02 October 2015 / Alec Samuels
Issue: 7670 / Categories: Features , Procedure & practice
printer mail-detail

An inspector calls

web_samuels

Alec Samuels opens the case of the architect’s certificate

A block of flats is being built. The developers and their agents are keen to get prospective purchasers signed up as soon as possible. The flats are being built on borrowed money paying interest. Prospective purchasers are urged to enter into a reservation contract for a small sum to be set off against the ultimate price, or forfeited in the event of not proceeding further. Exchange must follow within 28 days. Expected release of the flats for occupation and the completion of the conveyancing process will be expected for next April (though we all know that this is very probably an optimistic forecast and will not actually happen until September).

There will be no NHBC 10 year warranty. But instead there will be an architect’s certificate based upon an architect’s inspection. This sounds good, comforting and reassuring.

The inspections and the certificates are somewhat delayed. Some are given to prospective purchasers before exchange, some after exchange but before completion, some after completion, some considerably after completion

If you are not a subscriber, subscribe now to read this content
If you are already a subscriber sign in
...or Register for two weeks' free access to subscriber content

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Ogier—Martin Livingston

Ogier—Martin Livingston

Martin Livingston joins Ogier in Cayman to strengthen regulatory support

Blake Morgan—47 promotions

Blake Morgan—47 promotions

Blake Morgan announces 47 summer promotions across UK offices

NEWS
Consultant-led law firms should prepare for closer regulatory attention as oversight evolves
Artificial intelligence may draft workplace grievances, but employers cannot treat them any differently from conventional complaints
From dishonest claimants to judicial promotions and procedural skirmishes, the latest legal developments offer plenty for litigators to digest
Fresh guidance is set to influence how courts decide whether hearings take place online or in person
County Court judges remain divided over whether landlords can lawfully force entry to carry out essential safety inspections after tenants ignore access injunctions
back-to-top-scroll