Barn Conversion Survey

PRDMKT

Hi All,

I am in the process of purchasing a barn conversion (~c.1800's, converted in the 1990s) that retains its original solid stone walls. Part of the rear of the barn forms the boundary with the original farmhouse behind.

We recently had a structural survey completed, and fortunately, there isn't much to be concerned about! The surveyor did identify that the biggest risk to the property is the likelihood of shallow footings/foundations. They emphasized the critical need to maintain the top and subsoil (chalk) around the property to prevent ground movement, which is a common observation for a property of this age.

However, my concern pertains to foliage and potential tree growth near the property, particularly in the garden of the farmhouse where the barn wall forms the boundary. As far as I know, we do not have the legal right to maintain this area? If the current owners of the farmhouse decided to plant trees or refused me access to maintain the area, would I have to accept this as a perpetual threat to the property? 

I hope this makes sense? 

pjs493

I’ve just had a level three survey done on a property I’m buying, the surveyor noted that some ‘vegetation’ (a lovely rose bush) that is on a trellis and well manicured up a wall could lead ‘to accelerated deterioration of the wall’. This seems a bit overkill bearing in mind the age of the property (over 300 years old), and the fact that the grounds are maintained by gardeners and other workmen/women via a service charge. 

Obviously each case is different, but you may be worrying over nothing. Highlight it to your solicitor and they may suggest coming to a binding agreement with the neighbouring property so that no invasive vegetation is planted in the area if it feels warranted in your case. 

propertyrental

If the neighbours plant trees that cause damage to your property, you take action against the neighbours. Your insurer would likely do this for you.

It is a potential problem faced by millions of home-owners where their properties are adjacent to a neighbour's land. Very rarely actually happens.

Doozergirl

I'd say that half of the housing stock in this country is built on little to no foundation.  

You're not unique, in fact, if you want a period property then it is almost inevitable.  

Is it risk?  Yes, but no more than hundreds of thousands of properties and less so, considering that you're talking about vegetation that doesn't exist yet. 

You just need to keep an eye on what is growing and on your walls.  The house won't be collapsing.