Professional Integrity & Expert Independence Statement

At C. Wood Surveys , professional integrity is central to our role as independent specialists. Our purpose is to provide accurate, evidence-led assessments that support fair outcomes in housing, legal, and dispute contexts.

CORE PRINCIPLES

All inspections, observations, and conclusions are based solely on:

• Evidence obtained on site

• Recognised diagnostic methodology

• Sound technical reasoning

Our role is not to advocate for any party, but to present factual, balanced findings that reflect the true condition of the property and the circumstances in which defects occur. Whether defects are present or absent, findings are reported with equal transparency.

INDEPENDENCE & CONFLICT OF INTEREST

We do not sell or undertake remedial works, and have no financial incentive linked to any recommendations made.

We remain free from influence by landlords, tenants, agents, solicitors, insurers, or contractors. Where a conflict of interest is identified, it will be declared, and instructions may be declined to preserve independence.

DUTY UNDER CPR PART 35 (Experts & Assessors)

• Our overriding duty is to the Court

• This duty overrides obligations to the instructing party

• Reports include a Statement of Truth and Expert’s Declaration confirming understanding of these duties

Reports are:

• Accurate – based on verifiable data and accepted diagnostic practice

• Objective – reasoned and defensible under scrutiny

• Unbiased – independent of commercial or organisational influence

TRANSPARENCY & LIMITATIONS

Inspections are non-destructive ( unless otherwise agreed )and based on observable conditions at the time of survey.

External observations are conducted from ground level and from the most accessible vantage points. Aerial inspections (including drone surveys) may be arranged where required and subject to safety and regulatory limits.

Reports clearly state:

• Limitations, assumptions, and areas not inspected

• Methodology and evidence base

• Uncertain or inconclusive findings

MAINTAINING PUBLIC CONFIDENCE

By upholding these principles, we support fair outcomes for all parties, maintain ethical surveying practice, and reinforce confidence in independent professional expertise.

We recognise that the properties we assess often involve people’s homes, wellbeing, and legal rights. Our work is carried out with diligence, and a duty to provide fair, responsible, and technically sound assessments and professional respect for occupants and property owners.

Where expert input is required for legal matters — including disrepair, defence, pre-action protocol disputes, or CPR Part 35 reporting — we will only accept instructions where our independence and professional integrity can be preserved. All conclusions are based on documented evidence, reproducible methodology, and clearly stated assumptions.

Our work is evidence-led, impartial, and free from commercial influence — always.