Disrepair/Expert Witness Specialist in City of Westminster

To provide expert technical assessments, reports, and testimony in cases involving housing disrepair, building defects, damp and mould, landlord/tenant disputes, and associated legal matters. The postholder will act impartially and in accordance with Civil Procedure Rules (CPR) Part 35, delivering clear, defensible expertise for solicitors, insurers, landlords, and courts.\\n\\nKey Responsibilities\\n\\n1. Technical Inspection & Assessment\\n\\nConduct detailed property inspections relating to disrepair, building pathology, damp, mould, structural movement, leaks, heating and ventilation issues, and general property condition.\\n\\nUse specialist diagnostic tools (e.g., moisture meters, borescopes, thermal imaging, hygrometers) to identify root causes of defects.\\n\\nAssess compliance with relevant legislation, standards, and codes of practice, including the Landlord and Tenant Act, Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act, Decent Homes Standard, HHSRS, and building regulations.\\n\\n2.

Expert Reporting\\n\\nProduce high-quality CPR-compliant expert witness reports, Scott Schedules, joint statements, condition surveys, and costed remedial schedules.\\n\\nProvide clear, evidence-based conclusions on liability, causation, quantum, and remedial recommendations.\\n\\nEnsure reports withstand judicial scrutiny and adhere to professional standards.\\n\\n3. Court & Tribunal Support\\n\\nAttend court hearings, mediation, or tribunals to give oral expert evidence when required.\\n\\nParticipate in expert meetings and produce joint statements in compliance with CPR 35.\\n\\nMaintain impartiality at all times, acting independently of instructing parties.\\n\\n4. Client Engagement & Case Management\\n\\nLiaise with instructing solicitors, insurers, landlords, housing associations, and residents.\\n\\nProvide updates on case progress and meet deadlines for report submission.\\n\\nReview and respond to questions, Part 35 enquiries, or challenges to expert opinions.\\n\\n5.

Professional Standards & Compliance\\n\\nMaintain up-to-date knowledge of building pathology, legislation, case law, and sector best practice.\\n\\nAdhere to relevant professional body codes of conduct (e.g., RICS, CIOB, CIH).\\n\\nEnsure all documentation is accurate, impartial, and fully evidence-based.\\n\\nRequired Skills & Experience\\n\\nEssential:\\n\\nProven experience in housing disrepair investigation, building surveying, construction pathology, or related technical field.\\n\\nStrong expertise in diagnosing damp, mould, condensation, leaks, building defects, and structural issues.\\n\\nDemonstrable experience producing technical or expert reports.\\n\\nExcellent written and verbal communication skills.\\n\\nAbility to explain complex technical issues clearly to non-technical audiences.\\n\\nStrong understanding of legal frameworks relevant to housing and disrepair.\\n\\nHigh attention to detail and ability to work independently.\\n\\nDesirable:\\n\\nPrevious CPR Part 35 Expert Witness experience.\\n\\nMembership or accreditation with RICS, CIOB, CABE, or similar professional bodies.\\n\\nExperience giving oral evidence in court or tribunal settings.\\n\\nKnowledge of cost estimation for repairs and remedial works.\\n\\nTraining or certification in damp and mould investigation (e.g., PCA, IICRC).\\n\\nQualifications\\n\\nDegree/HND in Building Surveying, Construction, Building Pathology, Property Maintenance, or equivalent experience.\\n\\nExpert Witness or CPR 35 training (or willingness to undertake).\\n\\nCSCS card or relevant safety certification (if site-based).\\n\\nPersonal Attributes\\n\\nProfessional, impartial, and ethical conduct.\\n\\nStrong analytical and investigative mindset.\\n\\nConfident communicator with resilience under cross-examination.\\n\\nEmpathy and sensitivity when dealing with vulnerable residents.\\n\\nAbility to manage workload and meet strict deadlines.\\n\\nKey Performance Indicators (KPIs)\\n\\nQuality and accuracy of expert reports.\\n\\nAdherence to deadlines and legal protocols.\\n\\nClient satisfaction and repeat instruction rate.\\n\\nCompliance with CPR 35 and professional standards.\\n\\nSuccessful contribution to resolution of cases