Is there Japanese Knotweed on your site? Identifying and dealing with this invader

Andrew WilliamsSurveying

As part of the planning process, most building sites have to be inspected by a qualified arborialist. What if the arborialist’s report indicates that there is Japanese Knotweed lurking on part of the site? Legal requirements Environmental Protection Act 1990 Japanese Knotweed is classified as ‘controlled waste’ and as such must be disposed of safely at a licensed landfill site … Read More

Permitted Development Rights

Andrew WilliamsExtensions

You can make certain types of minor changes to your house without needing to apply for planning permission. These are called “permitted development rights“. When we are preparing plans for home extensions, we always check to ensure that if full planning permission is not required the home owner can avoid applying. Sometimes we will advise them to request a Lawful Development … Read More

Party Wall Advice

Andrew WilliamsParty Wall

The Party Wall Etc Act 1996 sets out strict parameters where Notice has to be given by one owner to his neighbour in respect of work he proposes to carry out. Not only does this cover the excavation of foundations for a conservatory, extensions or new property, but also such small items as removal of chimneys, cutting into party walls … Read More

Andrew R Williams & Associates Ltd now Fast Track Accredited Planning Agents.

Andrew WilliamsNews

Andrew R Williams & Associates Ltd / Plans2extend have been accepted as Fast Track Accredited Agent by St Helens Council for agents submitting householder planning applications. All householder applications submitted to St Helens Council on the Planning Portal by accredited agents will be registered by the Council within 1 working day of receipt.  The agent will also be notified by … Read More

UK housing market sees rise in activity

Andrew WilliamsNews

According to the RICS, the housing market saw an increase in activity during October. Although the increase is still at historically low levels, it represents the best reading since April 2010. Some surveyors attributed this increase to growing realism from many sellers, who appear to be more willing to take offers in order to secure a sale.

Why was the QSi Founded

Andrew WilliamsQSi - Quantity Surveyors International

The Qsi was founded to ensure that the QS identity and knowledge base was maintained. It was created because most QS members of the RICS believe that we are the neglected profession. Full QSi members have access to ninety FREE CPD modules. They also obtain regular news up dates on QS matters. The QSi also produces an e-magazine, the QS Eye. … Read More

UNDERSTANDING PHOTOVOLTAIC (PV) TECHNOLOGY

Andrew WilliamsNews

FIRSTLY – Photovoltaic technology – IS ROCKET SCIENCE – PV was originally designed for use on satellites. As most satellites remain active for decades, the system is tried and tested. The weather conditions on in Britain are nothing compared to the bombardment to satellites experience in deep space. SECONDLY – WIDELY USED AND TESTED IN GERMANY – Many houses in … Read More

Independent Chartered Surveyor

Andrew WilliamsSurveying

An Independent Chartered Surveyor is one who has no large institution or company as owner controlling the Surveyor’s actions and policies. This leaves the Surveyor free to represent the client’s best interests. The only allegiance and responsibility of an Independent Chartered Surveyor is to his or her client while adhering to his or her responsibilities as a Chartered Surveyor. As … Read More