Background:
I own a leasehold flat and wanted to make some interior structural changes. According to the lease I need permission from the freeholder and a 'Licence of Alterations'. I have to pay the freeholders solicitor over 1,000 pounds to have this licence drawn up. As I want to knock down one interior wall I need a structural surveyors report with calculations, which I have paid for, as well as buildings regulations certificate from the local council, which I also paid for. All OK. I did wince a bit at the 1,000 cost for the licence but accept this is part of living in a leasehold flat.
Issue:
The freeholder asked me if his surveyor could attend the flat to review the works before the Licence of Alterations was issued. I said OK, my builder also joined this meeting. My builder told me the meeting lasted no longer than 10 minutes. I have since received a bill from the Freeholders surveyor for 450 pounds for this service. I was not told there would be a charge for this service and as far as I am aware it was not necessary in order for the licence to be issued as the only thing necessary is the buildings regulation certificate.
Do I have to pay this 450 pounds? Surely the surveyor should have made me aware he intended to charge for this?
Any answers will be appreciated as this is a large sum of money I do not have.
Please or to access all these features
Please
or
to access all these features
Mumsnet has not checked the qualifications of anyone posting here. If you have any legal concerns we suggest you consult a solicitor.
Legal matters
Received invoice for service I had assumed was free of charge
17 replies
matchstickwoman · 04/01/2017 20:34
OP posts:
Please create an account
To comment on this thread you need to create a Mumsnet account.