Property Damage
Michael frequently acts in relation to property damage matters. Michael has a particular interest in relation to quantum issues and always seeks to pursue the effective commercial solution.
Selected Cases
- Settling Particulars and advising on settlement in a substantial claim against a driver and their motor insurer. The property required extensive remedial works, with subrogating insurers relying on the legitimacy of the loss adjusters’ conclusions.
- Building damage caused by tree roots and subsidence.
- Subsidence and nuisance claims arising from a water leak.
As a pupil, Michael assisted on matters including:
- Hiscox v Precious Marble and TPN Electrical [2018] EWHC 3585 (TCC). 6-day trial concerning property damage arising out of an escape of water followed by a fire. Assisting Daniel Shapiro KC.
- Prezzo v High Point Estates [2018] EWHC 1851 (TCC), Part 8 proceedings concerning the principle in Berni Inns. Assisting Daniel Shapiro KC.
- Two-day multi-track trial of a claim against a landlord for property damage and personal injuries arising out of a residential house fire. Assisting Matthew Boyle.
News
- Daniel Shapiro KC, Michael Harper and Alethea Redfern acted for World Challenge Expeditions Ltd in its successful claim against Zurich Insurance Company Ltd
- DIPT v Sanglier v Apollo: the importance of assessing the evidence, settling reasonably, and understanding the terms on which you contract
Articles
- DIPT v Sanglier v Apollo: the importance of assessing the evidence, settling reasonably, and understanding the terms on which you contract
- Hindsight is 20/20: Assessment of damages in light of Covid-19
Qualifications
- BPTC
- BCL, University of Oxford
- BA Hons, University of Oxford
- Lord Denning Scholarship, Lincoln’s Inn
- Graduate Fund Scholarship, Oxford Law Faculty
Memberships
- COMBAR
Recommendations
“Michael is a future star with exceptional ability, dedication and commitment to the cause.” He “is a go-to counsel for a range of professional negligence claims.”…”He brings a reassuring calm and insight to all matters.”
Chambers & Partners, 2025
“Michael is a tenacious barrister. He is incredibly diligent and leaves no stone unturned. He makes even the most difficult issues digestible for clients.”…”Michael has a real eye for detail and immerses himself in the case. A seriously talented junior, excellent in both his drafting and ability to engage with clients.”
Legal 500, 2025
Technically brilliant and very able in complex matters.
Legal 500, 2024
“Michael is enormously talented and enthusiastic in equal measure. He consumes the facts voraciously and applies the law surgically.”
Rising Star, Legal 500 2022
