employed an architect but took responsibility for supervision. He expected a future rnaintainance liability, but sold the house for unrelated reasons. When the need for further maintain ance became evident,the new owner instituted legal action against him. He is a barrister, but expects to lose the case although all his work was of a sound standard, as he did not undertake a ,thorough progrannne of repairs. If his expectation proves to be correct, then the effect upon both owners and their architects will be profound, as it will place them at extreme hazard in law to follow this approach to the repair of historic buildings. Similarly, insurance companies will not cover works where this line is adopted. The effect of this does not stop with the owner and his architect. It is probable that the SPAB could be sued on the basis of the advice it makes freely available, and that local authorities and conservation officers cculd be liable for obliging or advsing owners to adopt conservative repair techniques. If followed to an extreme conclusion, this would make all but the most destructive methods of repair an unaacceptable risk at law. Such a risk to the 'heritage is surely unacceptable even to the legislature. In order to assess the risk of this arising, I am seeking information on other cases. If you have experienced liability problems, please send details to G.S. Lane, 10 Morton Close, Aylsham, Norwich NRI 6BB. Finally, I woula ask all memhers to take an interest in this matter through their various professional bodies. Geoffrey Lane CAPITAL MARBLE Specialists in: e RESTORATION e SURFACE REPAIRS e CLEANING of all types of Natural Stone, Terra Cotta and Marble. We are fully experienced in the detailed and exacting repair work on ancient buildings and monuments. Our Clients include Property Services Agency, Local Authorities and Private Companies. CAPITAL MARBLE Ltd., Unit 1, 10 Acklam Road, London WlO 5QZ. Tel. 01-968 5340 PagelO
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