Headache, headache, headache ... new neighbours

eddddy

jimbog wrote: »

If it comes to it could they (try to) claim off your buildings insurance?

It sounds like the OP owns a leasehold flat in a council block. So the council will be insuring the building.

I very much doubt the council would have insurance that covers accidental damage - especially by builders.

loveka

Quite simply, you go to the council as they own the property, and you deal with them.

I wouldn't ignore them, as that would be rude! I would just tell them you would have to discuss it with their landlord. The council will have their own builders etc who will do the work.

Oompa

I have a feeling they're just going slap me with a large bill.

System

then its understandable that they would want their own builders in.

If they are council tenants then they get the builder that the council and you/builder agree to. They have very little say.

If they want their own builder to do work on a rented property then they can pay and take the responsibility.

Marvel1

Oompa wrote: »

They are council tenants who are in the process (or about to put an offer in) to purchase their home. They seem to be improving the communal areas, garden for example, and I am wondering if they are trying to have me foot part of the bill.

At this point, I would refer them to the council as they do not own the house.

G_M

Am I right in understanding these council tenants are about to buy the flat from the council? Under Right To Buy?

and they are doing everything possible to improve both their flat, and the communal areas, in advance of the purchase, so that once they are owners of the lease they will have a spick/span flat and minimal future communal area expenses.....?

But as for the claim, as others have said, they are tenants. You have no liability to them as they don't own the property. You do nothing.

If and when the flat owner (council) approach you claiming you damaged their property, you can then respond appropriately ie

* request proof from the council that your builders were responsible
* approach our insurers (presumably arranged by the council anyway!)
* request quotes for repairs etc

Do nothing. Do NOT approach either the council or the insurers as you have not, as yet, received any claim from the owners of the flat in question.

PasturesNew

Won't the party wall agreement address this? That's partly what it's for.
The Schedule of Condition.

dodger1

The cracks may have been there for months of course and they may simply be trying it on. Do they have any proof that the cracks are recent?

Lioness_Twinkletoes

Oompa wrote: »

I feel they want to show they've been taking very good care of the property (making improvements), as they want to make an offer to purchase the property from the freeholder (council).

Prices are fixed and not negotiable under the RTB. The place will be valued, and any improvements they've made (such as new kitchen or bathroom) will be discounted. Then they'll be given a hefty discount and that's the price they pay.

Mummyisbeauty

Since it is the council thats owns it I can't see why the council aren't the ones to talk to you about and not the tenants.