ABOUT US

Managing Director & Building Surveyor - Nicholas German BSc Hons

Nicholas joined db+PAUL in 2014, and in 2019 took over the directorship of the business from James Paul. He has successfully managed a variety of challenging building construction and renovation projects with his natural flair for project management and forward-thinking building designs.

He completed his RICS and CIOB-accredited degree in Building Surveying at Anglia Ruskin University and continues to develop and diversify his professional skills.

Nicholas is particularly interested in the sympathetic and responsible refurbishment of local Listed Buildings, having successfully project-managed the refurbishment of Crispin Hall in Street and the Dean’s Lodgings (Wells Cathedral), both of which won Building Excellence Awards from Somerset Building Control Partnership.

Director & Senior Building Surveyor – Howard Thomas BSc MRICS

Howard joined db & PAUL in January 2018 as Senior Building Surveyor after 11 years working with Stride Treglown Architects in Bristol, and has over 30 years’ experience working across a wide range of sectors including private residential, local government and commercial. >His experience includes project design, specification and management (refurbishment and new build), measured surveys, condition surveys of both domestic and commercial premises, historic buildings and conservation, maintenance and repairs, defects analysis, expert witness, party wall matters and accessibility. Howard is also presently a member of BUILD2LC, a European funded steering group based in Gloucester looking at fuel poverty and low carbon initiatives.

Consultant Building Surveyor – James Paul FRICS

James became a member of RICS in 1980 and was elected a Fellow of the RICS in 1989. In 2019 Jim handed over the day-to-day running of the business to Nicholas German and now concentrates on his surveying and planning consultancy services.

His knowledge of the Wells area and its buildings is unparalleled – both as a lifelong local resident and as a professional Building Surveyor.

Architectural Design CAD Technician – Linda Hunt HNC

Linda has an HNC in Construction and Property and is now a key member of the architectural design team at db+PAUL, with her pragmatic and creative approach to building design. Linda has worked extensively with AutoCAD and Revit on various projects, including measured surveys and space planning for NHS Salford. Her professional skills include 3D building modelling and also project management of loft conversions and home extensions.

Architectural Design CAD Technician – Robert Knapp BSc Dip Archt

With a degree in architecture and over 30 years of experience across a wide range of sectors, Robert joined the architectural team in 2018. From assessing feasibility, through concept design and specification, to project management, Robert has experience of a diverse range of projects, including domestic, commercial, local government and NHS, and will be happy to discuss your project ideas with you.

Senior Secretary - Jeni Oborn

Jeni is responsible for the day to day running of the office and is usually your first point of contact at db+PAUL. Jeni will be pleased to arrange appointments and advise you of our services, particularly with regard to Building Surveys and RICS Homebuyers Reports. She also carries out general office administration and correspondence.

Jeni is the office emergency first aider.

Receptionist & Accounts Administrator – Louise Wright

Louise joined db+PAUL in June 2018, and is responsible for processing staff time sheets and project information before issuing invoices to clients. She also helps with reception duties and other office administration, including taking enquiries, typing surveys and correspondence and generally keeping the db+PAUL office operating smoothly.