When it comes to property disputes, few things are as critical as clear, authoritative evidence. Chartered surveyors bring technical insight and impartial analysis that often make the difference in achieving a fair resolution—particularly in matters involving party walls, valuations, project management or increasingly, building or home insurance claims referred to the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS).
Understanding the surveyor’s role
Surveyors provide expert opinion based on factual evidence gathered through site inspections, measurements, and technical documentation. This evidence is often submitted in the form of a detailed written report and, where needed, reinforced with professional testimony. Courts, solicitors, insurers, and ombudsmen may rely on surveyor input in their capacity as an expert witness to cut through conflicting accounts and establish objective facts.
Common property disputes which can benefit from surveyor input
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Party wall matters – To confirm structural impacts between adjoining properties
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Property valuations – In cases involving inheritance, tax disputes or sales
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Construction defects or snagging disputes – When quality or compliance is in question
Surveyor evidence in FOS home and building insurance disputes
In recent years, there has been a significant rise in complaints to the FOS concerning buildings and home insurance—especially in relation to:
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Disputes over subsidence or settlement claims
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Questions around storm or flood damage validity
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Claims for structural movement or cracking
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Denied cover for pre-existing conditions
In these cases, surveyors play a vital role in clarifying whether damage is attributable to an insured event or to wear and tear, negligence, or other exclusions.
For example: If an insurer disputes a subsidence claim, a surveyor’s report detailing the cause and extent of movement—supported by soil analysis or monitoring data—can help the FOS make a fair judgment based on technical facts rather than conjecture.
Why the FOS will take into account surveyor input
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Surveyors offer impartiality and are independent from insurers or claimants
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Their reports are detailed, evidence-based, and often supported by photos, diagrams and monitoring
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FOS outcomes and final decisions often cite surveyor reports when issuing decisions, particularly when insurer reports are vague or lack substance
Why Accurate Evidence Matters
Whether the dispute ends up before a judge, a loss adjuster, or the FOS, the accuracy and credibility of surveyor evidence often carries decisive weight. It can:
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Resolve ambiguity in documents or testimonies
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Speed up resolution and reduce legal costs
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Ensure both property owners and insurers are treated fairly
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Prevent misdiagnosed repairs or unnecessary delays in reinstatement works
Disputes involving property—whether over valuations, defects, or insurance claims—require facts, not assumptions. A qualified chartered surveyor can be the key to resolving these conflicts with clarity and authority.
If you need the expert surveyor input for an insurance dispute or property, as well as managing your construction project get in touch with Graham Hamblin at Hamblin Sullivan Associates on 020 7863 7539.