A Tale of Moths and Millions

In a riveting legal case capturing the attention of London's elite circles, a high-profile lawsuit has emerged involving a luxurious Notting Hill residence. At the heart of this dispute is an alleged moth infestation that has prompted the homeowners, Iya Patarkatsishvili and her husband Dr. Yevhen Hunyak, to seek £36 million in damages from the property's former owner, William Woodward-Fisher.

The Claim: A Dream Home Turned Into a Nightmare

In May 2019, Ms. Patarkatsishvili and Dr. Hunyak believed they had acquired their dream home when they purchased the opulent Horbury Villa for £32.5 million. Complete with a pool, spa, gym, wine room, library, and cinema, the property seemed to offer everything they desired. However, shortly after moving in, the couple alleged they encountered an extreme moth infestation, which they claim has severely impacted their living experience.

It appears the infestation was so severe that the family was forced to contend with hundreds of moths daily. The insects reportedly contaminated food and drink, damaging clothing, carpets, and furniture. As a result, the couple has accused Mr. Woodward-Fisher of "fraudulent misrepresentation," alleging he failed to disclose the true extent of the infestation during the sale process.

The Defence: Denial and Dispute

On the other side, Mr. Woodward-Fisher, a seasoned property developer, has vehemently denied all allegations. Through his legal representative, Jonathan Seitler KC, he asserted that he provided honest and comprehensive responses regarding the property's condition. He maintains that any previous moth issues had been resolved prior to the sale, emphasizing that moths are not classified as "vermin" under the relevant legal terms.

The defence further contested the couple's claims of damage, arguing that the estimated repair costs are significantly inflated. Mr. Woodward-Fisher contends that the real cost of addressing the problem would be a fraction of what is claimed.

Legal Proceedings and Implications

As the case unfolds in London's High Court, it underscores the complexities involved in high-value real estate transactions and the importance of transparency in property disclosures. The outcome of this legal battle could set a significant precedent for future cases involving property misrepresentation and pest infestations.

Both parties await the court's decision, which will hinge on the interpretation of the pre-sale disclosure obligations and the evidence presented regarding the alleged infestation. This case not only highlights the challenges faced by luxury homeowners but also serves as a cautionary tale for property developers and buyers alike.

The trial continues.