Legal 500

“Bruno Herbots is applauded as ’offering insight that would not be obvious to clients”

“Many consider him [Bruno Herbots] a young star with the ‘X’ factor in construction and procurement law”

Chambers

“Practice head Bruno Herbots handles all aspects of construction and public procurement law. Clients appreciate his inventive solutions as well as the international experience gained from a number of jurisdictions”

“A “charismatic legal strategist” who is “very well versed in contract law and always available,” according to impressed sources.”

“Commended for being readily accessible and pleasant to deal with”

“Bruno Herbots is recommended as ‘a hard-working lawyer who is always pushing for the best result’. Recent highlights for the team include advising the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board on the development of the National Paediatric hospital Project”

“Construction and Procurement Department Head, Bruno Herbots has experience in both construction and projects, having applied his ‘thorough, pragmatic and efficient work ethic’ to some of the country’s major PPP projects, particularly in the rail sector.”

“Top notch on construction and procurement matters.”

IS IT NORMAL FOR A SURVEYOR’S REPORT TO CONTAIN PROVISIONS ABSOLVING HIM FROM LIABILITY?

It is normal for surveyors to cover themselves against problems being found which they were not allowed look for.  For example, if the house had fitted carpets and the owner will not allow the surveyor to lift them, it would be reasonable to say so in the report.  Similarly, if a house is furnished and he is not allowed move any of the items of furniture it is reasonable to state this.  It all depends on what is reasonable in the circumstances.

We would expect a surveyor who gets reasonable access to a house to be able to express a firm view on the overall structure.  It is much more difficult to express a firm view in relation to drainage or wiring.  A surveyor can flush a toilet and see that the drains seem to be flowing freely but with an old system this does not mean that they will not give trouble.

It is also difficult to test the quality of electric wiring.  The surveyor can look at the fittings, but this is just a basis for deduction.  The fittings or even the fuse box may have been replaced without the wiring having been upgraded.  A surveyor is unlikely to save you from problems with wiring or drainage for that reason.

Exclusions should make practical common sense in the light of your discussions with the surveyor.  If you feel the opinions are unfairly qualified, you should talk this over with the surveyor or seek the advice of your solicitor, who will be impartial and who will be able to express a view on what is fair and reasonable in the circumstances.