Do I need indemnity for sewer buildover?

CarolineD_2

I'm selling my 1903 back to back terrace - the area is densely populated with this type of housing.

Apparently when the house was built it was built over a sewer and my buyer's lender wants an indemnity policy.

Does this actually apply to the original build if it was that long ago? There are no extensions?

Does anyone know approx how much these policies cost?

Grateful for any advice or information.

angrypirate

What does your conveyancer say? Thats what you are paying them for

CarolineD_2

They are fighting it out with the other solicitor - it seems to be that some solicitors will ask for it, some won't. But because it is now the lender asking for it I don't think there's much we can do - if we refuse the sale will be off and we don't want that.

It seems to be a bit of a grey area so just wanted to see if anyone had any further information/experience.

angrypirate

Do you have a conveyancer or an actual solicitor? Is there a more senior conveyancer / solicitor in the firm you are using you can ask?

Riggster

How much will the indemnity cost?

If its only £200 just pay it to keep your buyer happy.

chappers

What type of sewer is it and where does it actually run, if it is just serving your property then it is legally your responsibility regardless and no indemnity can protect you
Also as your property was built before 1937 if the sewer serves two or more properties then it is the water boards responsibility to maintain it so you don't need liability cover either.
Your buyers lender and their solicitor don't know what they are talking about.
The only exceptions are if you are connected to private sewerage plants or pumping stations..

Have a look here or do a search for section 24 sewers even though they are no longer called that officially