Expert Witnesses

Harris Consulting acts as expert witness on all quantum related matters and provides arbitration / litigation support through the evaluation of causative events, preparation of Scott schedules and management and control of documentation.

We recognise the requirement for the expert witness to produce concise, unbiased and independent specialist evidence to assist the tribunal to discharge its obligations judicially.

Discerning clients understand that, if appointed earlier rather than later, an expert witness can validate a case and strengthen a client’s position to expedite an optimum settlement through negotiation.

Harris Consulting’s duties as expert witness are governed by the RICS practice notes and procedures set out in the RICS guide, ‘The Surveyor acting as expert witness’.

Harris Consulting appointed as expert mechanical services quantity surveyors by Midlands based solicitors acting on behalf of a major private construction company to report on valuation disputes in excess of £1 million on a large hospital. Michael was cross-examined by counsel for two days at the Arbitration hearing. The arbitrator received the positions adopted by Michael favourably and the subsequent Award reflected what was a most successful outcome for the Claimant.

Michael was appointed quantum expert witness for the Contractor in a multi million pound dispute concerning the extent and rectification of corroded steel pipework. The case went to trial but Michael was not required to give evidence as the liability was judged in favour of the Employer against the Sub-Contractor.

Following the Buncefield gas explosion Michael was appointed quantum expert witness in respect of the rectification and valuation of remedial works to offices and factory space. The case was settled on the back of Michael's valuation without recourse to litigation

Michael was appointed expert witness on a housing dispute where the Professional Quantity Surveyor was sued for negligence for circa £14 million. The case was extremely complex and concerned the valuation, cost control and contract administration of a refurbishment contract of circa 650 houses. The case was settled favourably in mediation

Appointed expert witness for valuation of an electrical account made on a quantum meruit basis referred to litigation. Michael's advice was instrumental in the case settling early.

Recent Work

Michael Harris has been appointed Quantum Expert on a substantial number of disputes & has been well examined by Counsel in arbitration & adjudication.
Compiled a loss and expense claim for a water utility on a HM prison contract, which comprised a formal analysis of evidence and statement of case to substantiate the pleading. The dispute was referred to arbitration and Harris Consulting was appointed expert in respect of quantum. Michael Harris' expert report was instrumental in achieving a successful outcome for the client.
Working for a major Mechanical Electrical sub-contractor on a major public building Michael Harris was appointed as Quantum Expert and has managed a team of surveyors and delay analysts in respect of claims valued at £5m in addition to defending a counterclaim valued at £8m. The dispute has been subject to numerous adjudications but should either party decide to pursue its claims through litigation a case has been prepared that will enable a robust claim/defence to be made.
Engaged by lawyers representing Insurers under an action against the consultant’s PI Insurance, Harris Consulting was appointed as Quantum Expert to ascertain whether the consultant carried out their obligations with due care and diligence. Harris Consulting’s team, led by Michael Harris, produced an analysis of the merits of the Client’s case that led to a fantastic settlement being achieved in mediation that was less than 15 per cent of the sum claimed.