ᐅ New Construction of a Single-Family House – Which Building Surveyor to Choose?

Created on: 7 Apr 2015 10:10
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FabShaw
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FabShaw
7 Apr 2015 10:10
Hello everyone,

We are planning the construction of a new single-family house. Since we are not very familiar with the subject, we want to hire an external building expert.
I have read in various sources that it is very important that the expert holds the title "publicly appointed and sworn expert" (because this professional title is protected, and it is supposed to ensure that the expert’s knowledge is up to date).

We have now spoken with an independent expert certified by "EIPOS," who, in our opinion, made a very good impression. He seems to have a lot of knowledge and experience, clearly explained his services, was not pushy, and generally left a very positive impression.

In your opinion, is there any reason not to choose someone who is not a "publicly appointed and sworn expert"? Does anyone know the exact differences between these titles? Has anyone had experience with independent experts?

Best regards,
FabShaw
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Bauexperte
7 Apr 2015 14:01
Hello,
FabShaw schrieb:

I had read in various sources that it is essential for the expert to hold the title "publicly appointed and sworn expert" because this professional title is protected, and one can somewhat rely on the fact that the assessor is up to date in terms of knowledge.

This is typical half-knowledge from the internet and often just money wasted; experts who are not sworn in are not automatically less qualified simply because they were not tested by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IHK).

**One becomes a publicly appointed expert through a formal administrative process—by submitting an application to the IHK using standardized forms, following a specifically prescribed procedural sequence, up to an administrative act (appointment or rejection) which can be challenged in administrative courts. Two aspects are important: personal suitability and special expertise. According to case law, publicly appointed experts are those whose professional qualifications clearly exceed the level of those who practice their profession properly.**

What you definitely need to focus on is the expert’s training; courses and continuous professional development. You should always ask for proof of this, as well as references. An evening taster course at a community college is unlikely to produce satisfied clients.
FabShaw schrieb:

We have talked with an "independent expert" (certified by "EIPOS") who, in our opinion, made a very good impression. The person seems to be very knowledgeable and experienced, clearly explained his services, was not pushy, and generally left a very positive impression.

As a company of the Technical University of Dresden, I would not be too worried as long as the expert can demonstrate that his knowledge is up to date. If the chemistry is right, I wouldn’t hesitate too long in your place 😉

**Source: IHK

Regards, Bauexperte
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FabShaw
9 Apr 2015 08:49
Great – thanks for the response!
Then it will probably be the independent inspector :-)

By the way: If there should be a legal dispute with the construction company – would an independent inspector be at a disadvantage compared to a publicly appointed expert?
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Bauexperte
9 Apr 2015 13:04
FabShaw schrieb:

By the way: If there is a dispute with the construction company that goes to court, are there any disadvantages to using an independent expert (compared to a publicly appointed one)?
No.

Because if it comes to that, the judge will appoint their own court-certified and sworn expert anyway. If the case is settled out of court, the parties share all costs; if a clear judgment is issued in favor of one party, the losing party—unless the court decides otherwise—must cover all costs incurred up to that point.

Regards, Bauexperte
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FabShaw
9 Apr 2015 13:13
Great – thanks again!