Trespassing issue with the house we want to buy

G_M

Yes technically it sounds like a trespass. In theory the eighbours could force you to move them

Don't rely on what the sellers say. By the time you find out, they'll be gone.

Don't discuss with the neighbours - you might stir up a hornet's nest.

Having said all that, it is relatively common, and in 99% of cases causes no problem.

I'd be asking myself what the worst-case scenario is - could the pipes be easily re-located if necessary, and aproximately what would it cost?

Dynera34

Moving the pipes will cost a lot as the bathroom needs to be re-arranged back to its original layout (toilet and bath tub were swapped location and the overhanging pipes are toilet waste pipes).

The seller offered written confirmation from the neighbours stating they are happy with the current arrangement. We will ask to get this even though it is not a legally binding document. Perhaps we can then talk to the neighbours ourselves and get at least a verbal agreement to start the 'Deed of Easement' process. Find out how much that would cost and lower our offer price accordingly?

Thank you everyone, really much appreciated..

Davesnave

Dynera34 wrote: »

Perhaps we can then talk to the neighbours ourselves and get at least a verbal agreement to start the 'Deed of Easement' process. Find out how much that would cost and lower our offer price accordingly?..

You can lower your offer, but the vendor may take a view that the 'permission' they obtained was good enough for them and therefore ought to be sufficient for you too.

As others have pointed out, this sort of thing is common. Trying to legally regularise an informal agreement between two friends isn't necessarily going to work. The other party might baulk at that, especially as they don't know you.

Chanes

I can see why you have a concern but I also see you looking for a problem that isn't there and may never be there? You have a solution to this even if it ever came to be a problem for your neighbour because you could re-route? Yes? I hope you can settle this and find some peace of mind, property buying is stressful even when it goes well!

moneyistooshorttomention

As it would appear the neighbours genuinely did agree - then I think it would be wise to get a "deed of easement" (as you never know if they might sell their house onto someone that wasn't happy with it).

So - get that official "bit of paper" and be aware that your house "owes them one" (ie a return favour) in exchange for this concession by them.