Apologies for the recent silence. I regret that I have been somewhat distracted and consequently unwell.
As an update to the attic conversion at 3F3, and in lieu of any further communication from our neighbour, the relief is immense to hear (from the builders) that the '6-8 weeks' worth of work that commenced in March is (according to them) now nearing completion (only 16-18 weeks later...). I am looking forward to the stair now being properly and thoroughly cleaned of all the accumulated soot and dust, and eagerly anticipate being able to enjoy some peace and quiet free from drilling and banging.
I am also pleased to let you know that despite the plans originally proposed, the access hatch to the attic space remains in its original location. This is important as it retains safe, free access to the roofspace for all owners, as detailed in our title deeds and as required for any inspections or work that we may need to carry out.
I am less pleased, however, to have to report that the recent heavy weather has meant that quite considerable amounts of rain have been coming in from the roof again (as you can see from the attached photo of my kitchen floor last week). I'm worried this could be affecting the lower properties too, (it seemed to be running down the inside of an external wall) and so we really must press on with getting a viable and sustainable method for ensuring that appropriate repairs to the building are carried out as necessary.
As you know, we commissioned a Full Building Survey from DM Hall in November. The scale of the work is, I believe, beyond our capacity and capability to manage ourselves. At our meeting in April we discussed the possibility of appointing DM Hall to undertake coordination of the work for us, as they did for our neighbours in Montgomery Street (who I've also contacted to see if we might learn from their experiences).
Meanwhile we checked to see if any other firm could undertake this role on our behalf including managing the financial aspects, but there was little positive response.
Given the recent rain ingress, Greig Adams of DM Hall has agreed to come and have another look on Monday 16 July 2012.I'll aim to keep you posted and propose that we schedule a further meeting for a few weeks time. Please contact me or leave a comment below if you have any helpful suggestions.
Thanks,
Catriona
