United Living defeats architect’s bid to block £7.35m defects claim
Summary
The High Court has allowed United Living (South) to continue a £7.35m defects claim against architect Hawkins\Brown relating to the Wenlock Building in Islington. The judge found that an earlier £1.575m settlement did not amount to a general release and did not prevent a further claim for defects not covered by that agreement.
Why it matters
The case highlights how settlement wording can leave scope for later claims where defects emerge or are later better understood. For residential property surveyors, it reinforces the importance of identifying and documenting fire-safety and facade defects clearly, particularly on higher-risk residential buildings.
Key points
- United Living can proceed with a £7.35m claim for alleged fire-safety and facade defects.
- The court held that the 2023 settlement was limited to a specific claim, not a general release.
- The alleged defects include combustible insulation, timber cladding, missing fire barriers and issues with the Velfac facade system.
- The claim also covers alleged inadequate structural steel fire protection.
- Liability has not been decided and the defendants continue to dispute the allegations.
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