Epicho & Skillcrown Homes appoint J3 Advisory to source latent defects insurance across £26m worth of residential property developments
In December 2021 J3 Advisory, a newly founded insurance and structured finance advice firm at that time, were instructed by Skillcrown Homes and Epicho Homes to advise on latent defects insurance solutions for £26m of new residential property projects across the South East of England.
The two developers commissioned J3 Advisory to arrange latent defect insurance on a collection of schemes, which delivered affordable flats, shared ownership apartments and luxury homes.
The projects include a six-storey building with 22 shared ownership apartments and commercial space on the ground floor, constructed on behalf of PA Housing. Construction was scheduled for completion in April 2023.
A second scheme was situated in the idyllic Kent countryside, Called Westerham Heights, the development boasts nine luxury homes in a private gated residential development. Perfect for families, the spacious properties include three bungalows, each with three bedrooms, and three four-bedroom and three five-bedroom detached houses. Each one of these beautiful new homes has a private garden and its own parking space. The interiors are finished to a high specification and include premium fittings and fixtures, designed for the modern lifestyles of its residents. The rural location offers homeowners the benefit of stunning countryside views and peaceful surroundings, while remaining close to the local amenities offered by the charming nearby town of Westerham.
As each development is different, each site needs to be insured on its own merits, and this played perfectly in to the J3 Advisory ethos and approach.
Jack Bristow, managing director at J3 Advisory, explained: “This partnership with both Skillcrown and Epicho is a real commendation of our ability to organise the very best and most appropriate latent defects warranty for developers, no matter how diverse the client’s portfolio.
“There is a large cross section of insurers offering structural warranty solutions, so the need for specialist knowledge and advice is vital in ensuring developers get the right cover for each site.
“Since our launch, we’ve been taken aback by the tremendous support from our clients and partners. We’ve been commissioned to work with several prestigious developers and housing associations on a range of exciting residential and mixed-use projects.
“Skillcrown’s projects are absolutely our area of expertise; we can save developers time and provide them with peace of mind through our pragmatic, common-sense and unconflicted advice.” concluded Bristow.
Salik Osman, managing director at Skillcrown Homes added: “We appointed J3 to arrange our latent defect insurance as the team brings a wealth of experience to the table.
“As each development is different, each site needs to be insured on its own merits. J3 worked hard to truly understand our business, ensuring each is covered by the ideal insurance. We have added peace of mind knowing that J3 only work with A-rated insurers.”
By working closely with the developers to understand the unique nature of each development as wells as the developer’s business ethos, J3 Advisory were capable of sourcing the most appropriate latent defects insurance solutions for them. Not only was the solution right for the developers but it also provided the appropriate reassurance for the residents of the developments too.
Whilst getting the right latent defects insurance solution was important for both Skillcrown Homes and Epicho Homes, getting it for the best price and in time were equally as important factors. J3 Advisory were not only able to source the right solution, they were also able to save the developers up-front costs as well as time. Time which could have easily been wasted by the developers as they got lost in the myriad of structural warranty and latent defects insurance solutions that are available in the market.
Up-front cost savings are clearly an important factor, but getting the right latent defects insurance solution could also save significant costs and expenditure in the future if problems were to arise. Not only is there the impact on the developers profits but their reputations could also suffer if the right insurance solution was not in place. Their reputations have taken years to establish and both developers pride themselves on providing exceptional customer service. Therefore the right latent defects insurance policy helps to protect reputations and deliver good customer service too.
About the developers
Skillcrown Homes works with housing associations across the country and is renowned for its responsibly constructed buildings with innovative design, exceptional construction standards and superior customer care.
Skillcrown is a property developer creating stunning new homes and sophisticated commercial and hospitality premises across London and the South East. They provide an unrivalled service for the country’s leading housing associations and public bodies, their buildings are responsibly constructed, boasting features with flair and architectural excellence.
Epicho Homes are known for providing luxury homes across London and the South East. They are a family-run business with over 25 years’ experience and an impressive portfolio of exceptional developments in prime locations.
The Epicho ethos is providing elegant homes expertly crafted from the finest materials, with premium fixtures and fittings, and incorporating the latest in modern technology. Each one of their developments is designed to meet the requirements of the modern lifestyles of its residents.
Epicho homes are designed to be beautiful inside and out, with consideration to the heritage and architecture of the surrounding area. Exterior features and landscaping are an important aspect of their developments, creating a sense of community in an attractive setting that our residents are proud to call home.
About J3 Advisory
J3 Advisory was launched in November 2021 after Jack Bristow, Johnny Leadsom and James Mole left their senior roles at the London Belgravia Group of Companies to launch the firm. For more information on J3 Advisory or if you have a project you wish to discuss, fill in our online enquiry form or call us on 0203 096 0718.
About the Author
Matthew Blackhall
Senior Advisor
Matt joins J3 having developed an impressive network of property professionals since moving to London. His experience centres around supporting SME housebuilders and housing associations in arranging and placing structural warranty insurance. His commitment and track record of securing the best possible outcome has been his professional trademark which underpins his successful client relationships. Matt was raised in Leeds, and studied in Newcastle before moving to the capital.
