Even Professionals Need Surveyors When Purchasing Real Estate

Hardy and another v Griffiths and another [2014] EWHC 3947

The Facts

On 1 April 2011, Mr Griffiths, a QC barrister, and his solicitor wife ("G") entered into a written contract with the Hardys ("H"). The contract was for the GBP 3.6 million purchase of Laughton Manor, a country residence in East Sussex.

Having previously withdrawn an offer in 2010, G agreed to a completion date of 31 October 2011. A six month extension was later agreed between the parties but a further request was refused by H, who served a Notice to Complete on 30 April 2012.

In rescinding the contract, H claimed breach of contract. G counterclaimed on grounds of misrepresentation.

The Alleged misrepresentation

G alleged that:

1. ) The property suffered from dampness and dry and wet rot

2. ) An eighth of an acre of land, represented as belonging to Laughton Manor, had been sold to adjoining proprietors

   The Court judgment

   The Contract...