GR/Expert Witness - Building Surveyors

An expert witness must be on the Register of Expert Witnesses and be an impartial witness who’s duty is to report independently to the Court. Expert witness Building Surveyors will be asked to inspect victims’ homes and assess work carried out. This assessment can include the value of work done, quality of work done, compliance with relevant building regulations (as applicable), failures in construction and opinion on safety. A written report must be produced, evidenced in the form of a witness statement that will be relied upon by the Court. Evidence must be given on the basis of his or her training, experience or knowledge of a certain subject. It is a matter for the court to determine whether a person should be allowed to give evidence as an expert. This may require attendance at court to provide evidence including cross-examination. Whilst there is no specific qualification for, or definition of an expert witness, they must be on the UK Register of Expert Witnesses. Expert Witnesses must give evidence and opinion in compliance with the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Practice Statements, including qualifications, knowledge and expertise. There must be a familiarisation with the specific regulations and standards relating to Trading Standards investigations and evidence of Continuous Professional Development