With 35 years’ experience in providing disability architecture, Cowan Architects has a reputation that has been built locally and nationally over the past 35 years.
The practice includes 12 RIBA Chartered Architects, 6 of whom are trained Expert Witnesses who act as Accommodation Experts within the Clinical Negligence field. We act for both Claimants and Defendants. We have in-depth knowledge and experience within the field of sourcing, designing and adapting accommodation for disabled Clients.
FINDING A SUITABLE PROPERTY
The questions associated with purchasing a property for future use by a disabled person can be quite complex. Is the property suitable? How can it be adapted to suit the Client’s disability needs? What are the likely costs of the adaptations?
Our Experts are able to provide answers and solutions with the primary aim of finding a suitable property. We believe that understanding the individual’s disability requirements from an accommodation perspective is key to providing a home tailored to the Client’s specific needs.
OUR REPORT
We regularly provide housing research and suitability reports as part of our Expert Witness work for many of our Clients who include solicitors and case managers.
Our reports are specific
- A description of our understanding of the Client’s disability
- Space requirements of the Client and their family or care team
- A detailed schedule of accommodation requirements
- Details of location parameters
- A detailed description of how each property considered may be adapted to suit the Client’s needs
- Preliminary adaptation costs
- Property comparison schedule.
We also provide reports for pre-settlement properties whether rental or purchased.
The clear benefit to the Client is the knowledge that a Chartered Architectural practice, experienced in both the assessment of accommodation needs and design and building work, has given their recommendation to purchase a property that is suitable for adapting to a specific Client’s needs.
In the first instance we suggest a desktop report is carried out followed by a physical full search, preferably with the Client.
EXPERT WITNESS
This entails visiting claimants in their homes, assessing their current and future housing needs together with the adaptations needed to make their current or future home fully accessible.
MEET THE EXPERTSDISABILITY ACCOMMODATION NEEDS REPORTS
As Expert Witnesses we prepare reports in respect of the accommodation needs of people who have suffered injury or trauma and who are seeking compensation through the Courts.
FIND OUT MOREDESIGN NEGLIGENCE & BUILDING DEFECTS
As Architects and Building Surveyors, we are best placed to act as an independent Expert to assess and advise on disputes involving building defects.
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