Royal Mail Post Box in Boundary Wall

jimbo_the_jetset

We are looking at a house which has a Royal Mail Post Box in the front boundary wall. I know this wall is the responsibility of the owner but does anyone know if there is any legal responsibility to Royal Mail? i.e. if the wall fell down would we be liable for any costs?

Current owners are unaware and solicitor does not immediately know.

Thanks

picklepick

You need to speak to the the Royal Mail Collection Manager in your local postal district in the first instance. They are responsible for maintaining post boxes, etc. If you aren't getting suitable responses from them, you can also contact the National Street Furniture Manager at Royal Mail.

You are within your rights to request that Royal Mail remove it. If it's not listed or of local historical interest they are required by law to remove it within a reasonable period. If your wall is listed they will apply for listied building consent to remove it. If it is of local historical value, they will leave it in situ but seal it up and take it out of use.

Southend1

Sounds handy, wish royal mail would put a postbox in my front wall! :cool:

I wonder if they pay a fee to the homeowner for the use of the wall? Post back and let us know what you find out.

ic

Lots of info here: http://www.helm.org.uk/upload/pdf/Royal%20Mail%20Letter%20Boxes.%20A%20joint%20policy%20statement%20by%20Royal%20Mail%20and%20English%20Heritage_2002.pdf

It basically reads to me that the Royal Mail maintain full responsibility for the post box, so I guess if the wall were to collapse, they'd coordinate with your contractor to fit a new post box as soon as possible.

G_M

I get £28 per year for the priviledge of having an elecricity pole just inside the boundary of my front garden.

jimbo_the_jetset

Thanks for the replies. I did see that pdf previously thanks.

Tried Royal Mail general enquiries who didn't have a clue. Even referred me to their contractor Romec who deals with maintenance. Will try the street furniture contact number on that pdf next.

Surprised there is not something out there which is written down regarding liabilities.