We all know what an expert is - someone experienced, qualified and strongly immersed in a field; report is simply a verbal or written account outlining facts and recommendations.

In terms of expert reports in construction, it should be a clear and direct statement of facts and opinions. That's right - opinions. The statement should not hide from opinions, remain neutral or purely objective. If someone is asking and paying for an expert report in a construction dispute, for example, they expect opinions .

There are, of course, notes of caution - the author of an expert report should avoid absolutes, Words like "always" and "never" should be used only with caution. Any tribunal examination is leaving the expert wide open with accusations that there have been cases like this - so our advice at Veritas Surveying is to avoid absolutes.

Useful hints on expert reports

There are though some useful pointers we can give:

• An expert report should be a concise statement of the facts and assumptions used by the Expert and his analysis followed by the Expert’s opinion. It must be compliant, legally
• Facts and the Expert’s opinion should be clearly demarcated
• The reader and hearing should be able to understand and to follow the reasoning leading to the conclusions reached in the Report. 
• A report should not contain unexplained jargon -if it does, a glossary may be advantageous 
• The Expert must include a summary of the instructions he has received in whatever form they have been given.
• To avoid confusion, it is safer to give written instructions or, where the instructions are given verbally, to confirm them in writing

Format of expert report

There is no fixed format for a report, but as in anything, structure can help. You can find samples online, like this.

The HSE goes further in specifying format, including:

"All reports should begin with the expert's name, official address, occupation, relevant academic and professional qualifications, accreditations including membership of professional institutions, career history, relevant experience, the range and extent of his/her expertise and any limitations upon the expertise. Detailed CVs are increasingly being asked for and it may be preferable to provide this in an appendix."

Why do we need expert reports?

In construction, there are inevitably issues that will arise, like:

• Delays
• Defects
• Codes and compliance
• Contracts

Some of these disputes can be resolved through normal construction processes, via forms, documentation and collaboration - while others require and include a 3rd party, an expert report effectively.

How Veritas Surveying can help

We pride ourselves on providing a high quality, flexible and efficient service and an ability to give sound advice and direct solutions which is demonstrated by the frequency of repeat business secured with our existing client base which includes construction solicitors Manchester, Main Contractors, Specialist subcontractors and Employers.

Want to know more? Contact us today.