Power lines near to your property...

Coolblue

First of all hello :wave:

I have been recieving letters from a property compensation specialist saying that i am entitled to money because power lines run across my garden. The problem is they want 15% comission & VAT aswell for doing it for me.
Does anyone have any tips on how i could do the work myself??
It really grates me that i would have to hand over so much to them when i am sure it could be done by myself!

Thanks in advance for any advice.

Coolblue.

Niv

Are they asking for this before they do the work/give you the compensation? If so, it sounds like a scam to me.

Coolblue

No i think they are a genuine outfit (Thomas Broadbent) they are not asking for cash.
It is a no win no fee thing.

Niv

I think I would just go with it then. Its money for nothing to you, as you havent chased for this work or think your entitled to compensation.

zzzLazyDaisy

I think you mean Thompson Broadbent?

This question has been posed by before, you might find some info here

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/951411

sonastin

Are you sure that you are entitled to compensation? I am no expert but things that spring to mind are:
1) when were the power lines installed?
2) when did you move into the house?
3) was any compensation offered when the lines were installed?
4) do the deeds of the house say anything about easements or wayleaves in relation to power lines?
5) how far are the lines from the house?

As Niv says, this could be money for nothing for you and even if they take 15% + VAT off it, its more than you expected to get for the compensation before they contacted you. BUT equally, once you start down this path you might end up getting sucked into answering questions, then filling in forms, and being hassled by other parties, then doing the legwork yourself, etc etc and before you know it, its taking up all your time and you still have to give them a chunk of whatever you get out of it.

As long as you remember to walk away if the comp you might get doesn't make up for the work you are having to do, I'd give it a go. Oh, and remember to check that you are free to walk away before you sign anything!

Coolblue

Thanks for the advice guys :beer:

NAR

Coolblue, you probably are entitled to compensation. This document refers: - http://www.powerlinefacts.com/UK%20Powerlines.htm

You would need to contact your local electricity distribution network operator, who would be the normal contact if your power went off (not the company that bills you, the company that owns and maintains the network) They will be able to help you, not sure if they would compensate for this or not, as you have already bought the property, it would be in any Wayleaves agreement already drawn up unless the line has been put up recently. Wayleave may also have run out if one exists, which means compensation is payable to you.