Title: £36m Moth Saga: Oligarch’s Daughter Sues Developer Over Notting Hill Mansion Infestation

When Iya Patarkatsishvili and her husband Dr Yevhen Hunyak purchased the £32.5 million Victorian mansion in Notting Hill, west London, they likely envisioned a life of unparalleled luxury. However, instead of enjoying their days in the mansion’s spa or swimming lengths in its pool, the couple claim they are spending their time swatting around 100 insects a day due to an infestation of “millions” of moths.

Understanding The Main Concept

The dispute centers around the alleged fraudulent misrepresentation by property developer William Woodward-Fisher, who sold the property with full knowledge of the moth problem. Patarkatsishvili and Hunyak claim they were not informed about the extent of the infestation when they bought the mansion in 2019.

Key Points:

* The couple claims they were never told about the “millions” of moths nesting behind the walls and ceilings
* The property developer had previously experienced problems with moths but was assured that moths were not vermin
* The moth infestation has caused significant damage to the mansion, including damaged carpets and furniture

How This Works In Practice

The couple visited the Notting Hill property at least 11 times before their purchase but did not once see the insects during these visits. However, they claim that the infestation is “far more extreme” than an ordinary domestic experience of moths.

Symptoms of the Infestation:

* Clothes had to be packed in hermetic bags
* Carpets and furniture were damaged
* Numerous items of clothes were eaten by moths
* Moths got into wine and food, contaminating cutlery and toothbrushes

Why This Matters For Business

The case highlights the importance of thorough property inspections and disclosure of known issues. The couple’s claims of “fraudulent misrepresentation” could have significant implications for developers and homeowners.

Estimate ‘Fantastically High’
Woodward-Fisher denied all claims, insisting that he gave honest and full replies on the pre-sale enquiries form. However, Hunyak and Patarkatsishvili claim that it would cost around £9.6m to rip out the moth infestation source in the embedded wool insulation.

Key Statistics:

* £32.5 million purchase price of the mansion
* £36m lawsuit filed by Patarkatsishvili and Hunyak against Woodward-Fisher
* £50,000 compensation claim for moth-shredded clothes
* Over £3.7m paid in stamp duty tax

The trial continues, with both sides presenting their arguments.

Next Steps

As the trial progresses, it remains to be seen whether the court will rule in favor of Patarkatsishvili and Hunyak or uphold Woodward-Fisher’s claims. The outcome could have significant implications for the property market and developers’ practices.

Expert Analysis

According to John McGhee KC, representing the couple, “The fact that he was willing to tolerate this level of disruption further puts the lie to Woodward-Fisher’s claims that the level of moth activity had not troubled him.” Jonathan Seitler KC, Woodward-Fisher’s lawyer, countered that his client “can’t afford to re-purchase the property” and alleged that the couple had “neglected” the house.

The Saga Continues

As the dispute unfolds, one thing is clear: the £36m moth saga will continue to be a topic of interest for real estate enthusiasts and legal experts alike.