Terms of Business

Sign Off Direct Ltd
Terms of Engagement & Business

1. Appointment and Purpose

These Terms govern the appointment of Sign Off Direct Ltd (“we”, “our”, “us”) by the client named in the Instruction Form (“you”, “your”) to inspect and report upon the construction or conversion works described in the Instruction Form (the “Works”) and, where appropriate, to issue a Professional Consultant Certificate (“PCC”).

Our role is limited to providing professional monitoring and reporting based upon visual inspections and documentation supplied by you. We do not act as designer, project manager or clerk of works, and we do not warrant or guarantee the quality, performance, or durability of the Works.

By instructing us, you confirm that you have read, understood and agreed to these Terms, which form a legally binding contract.

2. Definitions and Interpretation

• Certificate / PCC – the Professional Consultant Certificate issued by or on behalf of Sign Off Direct Ltd in accordance with the UK Finance Lenders’ Handbook and RICS professional standards.
• Works – the construction, conversion, extension, or refurbishment works forming the subject of the Certificate.
• Inspection – a limited, non-intrusive visual inspection of accessible areas and review of information supplied.
• Client – the person or entity commissioning the Services and responsible for payment.
• Purchaser / Lender – a subsequent owner, purchaser or lender relying on the PCC.
• Professional Indemnity Limit – £1,000,000 in aggregate for all claims arising in any 12-month period.

3. Scope of Services

1. Upon instruction, we will arrange for a RICS Chartered Building Surveyor or other suitably qualified professional to undertake the agreed number of inspections and review such drawings, Building Control documentation, and evidence as you supply.
2. If appointed after completion of the Works, our inspection will be retrospective and based on available documentation.
3. All inspections are visual and non-destructive; concealed or inaccessible elements are excluded.
4. We do not undertake continuous supervision. Responsibility for execution, quality and compliance remains with the builder or designer.
5. We may decline or suspend certification where, in our professional judgement, the Works or evidence are incomplete, unsafe or non-compliant.
6. The Services do not include verification of structure, underground works, M&E installations, or future performance.

4. The Professional Consultant Certificate

The PCC confirms only that, based on our inspections and information provided, we saw no reason to believe the Works were not in general accordance with approved plans, Building Regulations and statutory consents. It is not a warranty or guarantee.

The PCC remains valid for six (6) years from issue and may be relied upon by the first owner, their lender, and any purchaser or lender within that period, subject to these Terms.

5. Client Responsibilities

• Ensure all statutory consents are valid and current.
• Ensure the site is safe, insured and accessible for inspection.
• Provide all drawings, specifications and certificates promptly.
• Notify us of material changes to design or specification.
• You warrant that all information supplied is accurate and complete and accept responsibility for all contractors and consultants engaged in the Works.

6. Fees and Payment

• Fees are as quoted in our proposal or Instruction Form.
• A non-refundable booking fee is payable upon instruction; the balance is due before release of the PCC.
• Invoices are payable within seven (7) days; interest accrues at 8% above the Bank of England base rate.
• If a PCC cannot be issued due to incomplete or defective Works, all fees incurred remain payable.

7. Liability and Limitation

Our liability, whether in contract or tort, is limited to the lesser of our total fees or £5,000. Total annual liability shall not exceed the Professional Indemnity Limit (£1,000,000).

We are not liable for consequential or indirect loss, workmanship or material defects, concealed defects, wear and tear, or third-party acts. Nothing excludes liability for death, personal injury, or fraud caused by our negligence.

8. Indemnity

You agree to indemnify Sign Off Direct Ltd, its directors, employees and consultants against all losses or claims arising from your acts, omissions, contractor defaults, or inaccurate information, except where caused by our proven negligence.

9. Right to Withdraw or Refuse Certification

We may suspend or terminate Services and refuse to issue a PCC where payment, access, or information is withheld, or the Works are unsafe or non-compliant. No refund is due in such circumstances.

10. Intellectual Property & Confidentiality

All reports and certificates remain our property and are licensed for use only in relation to the specified property. Client information is confidential except where disclosure is required by law, court order, insurers or regulators.

11. Data Protection

Personal data is processed in accordance with UK data protection laws and our Privacy Policy (available upon request).

12. Complaints & Dispute Resolution

We operate a written RICS-compliant complaints procedure. Unresolved complaints may be referred to the RICS Dispute Resolution Service. Parties agree to seek resolution by negotiation or mediation before court action.

13. Force Majeure

Neither party is liable for delay or failure caused by events beyond reasonable control including natural disasters, pandemics, strikes or government action.

14. Termination

Either party may terminate by written notice. Fees for work completed remain payable. Clauses on limitation, indemnity, confidentiality and governing law survive termination.

15. Governing Law & Jurisdiction

These Terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales. Both parties submit to the exclusive jurisdiction of the courts of England and Wales.

16. Entire Agreement

These Terms and the Instruction Form constitute the entire agreement and supersede prior understandings. No variation is valid unless agreed in writing and signed by both parties.

17. Client Declaration