our blog

The introduction of the High Value Council Tax Surcharge (HVCTS), commonly referred to as the “Mansion Tax”, represents one of the most significant changes to the taxation of residential property in England for many years. If you own a residential property worth £2 million or more as at 1 April…

Rachel Reeves delivered the long-awaited 2025 Budget last week, and now the frontpage measures are confirmed. Some of these will affect landlords and property investors. Below is a summary of the main changes and our brief take on how this may affect the market: 1. Tax on Rental / Property…

If you’re planning extension works in London that affect a shared wall, boundary, or include new foundations near a neighbour’s building, you may need a Party Wall Award under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996. But what exactly is it, who pays for it, and how long does it last?…

At Pellego Chartered Surveyors, we carry out RICS Market Valuations, often referred to as ‘Red Book’ Valuations, for many purposes. However, we have recently received a surge of enquiries from individuals seeking RICS Market Valuations for Capital Gains Tax. Understanding your Capital Gains Tax obligations is crucial if you’re a…

In an ever-changing world, technology is used to increase efficiency, accuracy, and safety. Surveying is no exception, and whilst all our surveyors have followed a very traditional path of professional training, we seek to embrace modern technology where it offers value to our clients.   From years gone by, when…

Flat living can be an appealing option for those in cities and urban areas as it can offer a more affordable way to enter the property ladder and, in many cases, it provides a more straightforward approach to building management.   However, before committing to buy a flat/leasehold property, there…

The recent UK budget introduces significant changes that will impact those buying and selling property in London. Here are the most relevant aspects: 1.Stamp Duty Increase: At the moment, buyers of homes worth less than £250,000 don’t pay stamp duty. This was doubled from £125,000 under Liz Truss’s mini-Budget in…

A Party Wall Agreement, formally referred as an ‘Award’ is a legal document prepared under the Party Wall etc. Act 1996 that dictates how and when construction work should be carried out, ensuring both parties’ rights are protected. An Award is prepared by either a single surveyor appointed on behalf…

Are your works notifiable? The first step to determine whether a Party Wall Agreement (or ‘Award’) is needed, first check if your proposed construction works require serving Notice on your neighbour(s). The Party Wall etc. Act 1996 imposes a legal obligation on a property owner proposing certain construction works to…

When buying a property, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of finding your dream home. However, amid the whirlwind of viewings, mortgage applications, and negotiations, one question often arises: Do I need a survey? Whilst there is no legal requirement for a survey, having one carried out…