Neighbours possible extension?

AmyShepherd

We’re in the middle of purchasing a new home which has been extended twice (single storey and loft). Within the draft contracts, all the relevant building paperwork is there including permission from both neighbours (it’s a mid terraced house).

I’ve then noticed the owner has refused permission for next door to also do the loft 2 years ago. I’m unsure of the reasoning, but on the notice of information under the party wall act it describes how they want to cut into the party wall, place two pad stones for the steel beams to rest upon.

What is stopping him now giving consent and the work commencing immediately? As ultimately he won’t care as he’s moving out.

Would this cause an issue for us somehow? I’m not overly bothered it they did want to proceed, but I’d rather if they did, it was done before I redecorated and I wouldn’t want any scaffolding within our garden.

Unsure how this all works.

Any thoughts?

da_rule

Probably wouldn’t make any real difference to you, except some works can restrict what works can be done in the future on the other side of the wall.

The Act doesn’t allow for someone to change their mind, so to speak. Another notice would have to be served or they would have to enter into a dispute and appoint a surveyor. But given the time that has elapsed this is unlikely. If you are that concerned you could have a term incorporated into the contract preventing them serving or reply to any party wall notice without consulting you.

Doozergirl

I'm confused. You can't just refuse it because the law specifically allows people to build. You can have a surveyor appointed to act for you, but you can't just refuse. Maybe the neighbour didn't want to pay for the surveyors, if they didn't bother building.

On the plus side, they shouldn't need to erect scaffolding on your side at ground level. There might be a bit of overhang up higher.

AmyShepherd

All the enclosed letter says is he does not give consent for the build and if they wish to take the matter further his solicitors details are “XYZ”.

I thought it was a little cheeky considering both his neighbours had given him consent to build.

Doozergirl

AmyShepherd wrote: »

All the enclosed letter says is he does not give consent for the build and if they wish to take the matter further his solicitors details are “XYZ”.

I thought it was a little cheeky considering both his neighbours had given him consent to build.

Good luck buying off him :eek:

He can't actually do that. Imagine how much wouldn't get built due to people just being NIMBYs.

Make friends with next door.

AmyShepherd

We always intend to be nice. I bet they’re dreading us moving in!

4 children (one of which is a baby), three dogs (two of which are large German Shepherd failed police dogs), police household so in and out at all hours....