Random cars blocking access to garage

779

I'm in the process of buying a property, - it comes with a garage in an underground block.

We are now very close to Exchanging.. - however, ever since I first viewed the property, there has been a car parked in the same place, blocking access to a number of garages.

One car was there for a few weeks, then disappeared, then another car turned up, - 4 weeks later gone, - and now yet another car has turned up.

All cars untaxed with no parking permit.

It seems that hardly anyone uses the garages to park their cars, just storage, so maybe the dumped cars aren't bothering anyone.

Anyway, I am renting at the moment, and unfortunately this place I am buying uses the same management agents, and I happen to know that they are absolutely useless.


I am worried that I am going to be blocked in, - if I park my car in the garage and a car turns up, - i'll be stranded.


Am I right in thinking that because it's a private property it's not a Police matter?

What are my rights here? If I am unable to drive my car out of my garage, am I in my right to smash the window of the car, release the handbrake and move the car along (only work if it's an auto)?

I've told me solicitor and she is following it up with the vendors solicitor, however, I am worried that the problem will persist.

Also, - i am confused as to what exactly the reason is for such cars.

theartfullodger

Untaxed, different cars?? Sounds like a dodgy small-time car trader... probably quite close, neighbours probably know whom..

I thought that the Police could take action if you were blocked...

I'd be inclined not to be too bothered about it, I'm sure it could get sorted. Think a sign saying "No parking, anyone parking will be clamped" (when you've bought) might sort it as might a "word" with the culprit "Would you mind never parking here again or would you prefer me to advise HMRC, VAT man, DVLA & Police???".


Hope it works out..

vikingaero

Try putting up a new large sign saying that the garage is in use and 24 hours access needed. People may obey a new sign rather than a tatty one that has been there for 20 years.

Best way to move a car is to bounce it with 3 mates.

779

theartfullodger wrote: »

Untaxed, different cars?? Sounds like a dodgy small-time car trader... probably quite close, neighbours probably know whom..

Hmmm - yes, didnt think of that, - although these cars really do look like dogs. Also, there is a big car park next to the block (which residents use) which doesn't lack free spaces, which another reason why I find it a little baffling that the cars are dumped inside the block.

maninthestreet

If the cars are parked on private property, then it won't be a police matter, even is access is blocked.

Gwhiz

maninthestreet wrote: »

If the cars are parked on private property, then it won't be a police matter, even is access is blocked.

Correct. The only time they may get involved is if you are prevented from accessing the public highway - i.e. trapped.

G_M

Untaxed cars nowadays have to be formally declared offroad with DVLC (SORNed) even if kept on private land.

Police could check if they have been SORNed, and fine/remove/crush the car if not.

StaffieTerrier

We had a similar problem in the block of flats we lived in. We were able to report an untaxed vehicle to our local council, who came and slapped a clamp and notice on it. It gave the owner 7 days to contact the council after that the vehicle was removed by the council. Have you looked into whether your local council does the same thing?

JQ.

Have you spoken to the vendor about it - they may have a reasonable explanation and a way to resolve it. If you have and they've ingnored you, I'd be tempted to put it back in there court - get your solicitor to write to theirs explaining exactly what you've seen, and ask for an explanation of what action has already been taken and what action is proposed and you want this formally in writing from the Managing Agents setting out exactly what they would do if it happens again and what rights you would have.. Until you're satisfied, you won't proceed.

Such an issue would worry me as I'm a fan of my garage. Plus I'd also be worried about putting a big sign on the garage, as to an oportunistic thief it would read:

"24 hour access required because there is something valuable contained within this garage in an underground car park that is rearly used, force the garage lock, close the door after you and you'll have all night to hotwire the car or strip it of anything valuable without fear of being disturbed"

779

Thanks everyone for your responses. No, I hadn't thought about contacting the council as yet, - and thanks for clearing up the legal side.

JQ. wrote: »

Have you spoken to the vendor about it - they may have a reasonable explanation and a way to resolve it. If you have and they've ingnored you, I'd be tempted to put it back in there court - get your solicitor to write to theirs explaining exactly what you've seen, and ask for an explanation of what action has already been taken and what action is proposed and you want this formally in writing from the Managing Agents setting out exactly what they would do if it happens again and what rights you would have.. Until you're satisfied, you won't proceed.

Such an issue would worry me as I'm a fan of my garage. Plus I'd also be worried about putting a big sign on the garage, as to an oportunistic thief it would read:

"24 hour access required because there is something valuable contained within this garage in an underground car park that is rearly used, force the garage lock, close the door after you and you'll have all night to hotwire the car or strip it of anything valuable without fear of being disturbed"

I do have to agree with you in regards to the sign on the garage.

As it stands, what you suggest is what I have done. My solicitor has contact the vendors, and I am awaiting their response.

Thanks again.

ILW

You say the block has useless managing agents. Buy something else as you could have years of grief.