Water damage from neighbour's scaffolding

01273_Elaine

My neighbours are having a loft conversion. The work is now entering month 6 of probably 7 in total. (I have removed all pots from the area & have been unable to enjoy the use of my garden since April). My main problem is that the tin roof covering their scaffolding is causing a cascade of water onto my garden decking, fixed wood/brick garden seat & planting. My neighbours are aware that this is occurring, but suggested I re-direct the water with sheets of plywood. I told them that this is a most unsatisfactory solution & feel that it is their responsibility to do what they can on their side to prevent this happening. Who is ultimately responsible for any damage caused? Is it my neighbours, the main contractor or the scaffolders? Should I contact my insurance company to deal with this? My PWS says that this is outside of his remit as I have agreed to the scaffolding being in place. I understood that it would be wrapped in plastic, but had no idea that the tin roof would cause such a problem. Any advice would be appreciated.

Doozergirl

On a practical level, they could adjust the sheeting so that it falls and directs water differently. Raising it slightly at your end so it falls away or turning it so that it goes in a different direction altogether.

Your PWS is really the person to know how to help you. What damage is being caused? They are responsible for rectifying any damage under your agreement and there must be something in there about the scaffolding, even of not specifically water fall-off.

societys_child

I thought the PWS existed to prevent any damage. I'd send the PWS a letter headed: COMPLAINT to start with.

Could also try the council planning dept. if they've been involved?

chappers

This should have been addressed in the PWA, but ultimately the homeowner is responsible and outside of the PWA they are not allowed to discharge water onto your property.
What size is this loft conversion if it's still got a tin hat on it after 6 months.

01273_Elaine

I should maybe add that the conversion was due to take 4 months (this in itself made me a little suspicious, as most conversions in this terraced street last appx. 2 months). My neighbours have been rather 'economical with the truth' deciding to gut the whole house while the scaffolding is in place. The reason given for the over-run is that other things needed addressing. I am not one to be churlish, even though the sustained noise & mess is extremely inconvenient. They are aware of how much time & love is spent on my garden. They are also aware that I suffered a few years ago from flash flooding, so I am obviously sensitive to water damage. There is now some damage to the mortar on a garden wall, a green slimy bloom to an area of the decking & the fixed garden seating. I am hoping that there will be no long-term 'rotting' to the wood. I am not sure if I should get my building Insurance company involved & if so how soon? Should I wait until work is completed & my PWS has reviewed the party walls? Who knows what other liberties they may have taken!

missile

A photo might help us better understand the issue.

Never too soon to consult a solicitor. Most offer a free initial consultation.

Doozergirl

missile wrote: »

A photo might help us better understand the issue.

Never too soon to consult a solicitor. Most offer a free initial consultation.

A photo would help but this does fall firmly under party wall issues with the scaffolding which should be addressed in the PWA. The PWS will check condition at the end. This is the whole point of the PWA. Damage should be rectified.

Not sure why home insurance should be involved either unless you fancy hiked premiums.