Neighbour's extension - boundary window

aboi

I live in Milton Keynes, England. My neighbour has a planning application in for a single-storey extension, which includes a window (red circle) right on the boundary with my property (red line). My concern is twofold: privacy (direct overlooking into our front garden/property) and the risk that a boundary window could restrict our ability to do a similar extension in future (as we can't block a window).

I raised this with them, and they were very reasonable — they’ve spoken to their architect and said they’ll remove the window. They’ve also asked me not to raise any concerns on the application. I trust them, but want to be sensible. Planning permission lasts ~3 years — could a future owner put it in anyway? Is it worth submitting a “no objection” comment, but making it clear that’s on the basis the boundary window is removed? Trying to keep things amicable, but also avoid creating a future issue. Thank you.

springmagpie

Personally I would object based on the window. They may then have to submit new plans.

Whilst it could cause a delay and some money for them, do not relay on goodwill and a promise. Things can change quickly.

twopenny

On the one hand it's useful to have a window overlooking your front for security reasons. It would put most trouble makers off.

On the other hand if you also want an extension it's a problem.

You could tell them what you are planning to do and why. See what they say. Would they change the plan?

Slinky

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81960670#Comment_81960670

I suspect that if it got permission, it would require obscured glass because of the overlooking issue, in which case the security of being overlooked would be lost anyway.

I suspect the architect has already thought you may object, otherwise why put in the rooflight if there's a window?

Section62

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6663897/neighbours-extension-boundary-window

They’ve also asked me not to raise any concerns on the application

If the window is on the approved plan then they can backtrack on what they told you, you wouldn't need to wait for a future owner to find the window going in after all.

In fact strictly speaking, if the window is in the approved plan then they could be in breach of the planning consent if they don't put it in.

Unless the council is particularly obstructive then they should be willing to accept an amended plan with the window removed, and the architect could produce the amended plan for very little cost (tbh I wouldn't expect them to charge for such a minor amendment, which will be needed for BC plans anyway).

If they were good neighbours then I'd have expected them to show you the plans before the application was made, particularly because the window could affect you.

So I'd be somewhat suspicious that they didn't ask you about the plans before applying, and are now asking you not to raise any concerns. If you don't raise concerns during the statutory consultation period then you are likely to be stuck with the neighbours having planning consent to put a window in their extension which you don't want them to have. If you object when you realise the bricklayer is leaving an opening for the window then you'll have no way of stopping them.

Note also that if they are building the wall on the boundary then parts of the building (such as the windowsill and roof covering/eaves) will usually come onto your property, and they would need your permission to do that. You might want to ask them to enter into a legal agreement giving consent to any intrusion over the boundary, on the condition they will agree to you building up to the boundary yourself at a later date. If you do decide to extend yourself then you will be getting into a party wall situation, and them being there first gives them rights you won't have.

ciderboy2009

You could always "jokingly" let your neighbours know that, if it is built with that window, then you will be putting a fence panel or growing a large bush right in front of it.

dannim12345

Maybe explain to your neighbour that you will object but only on the point raised and say you have already agreed to remove the window and with that you approve.

Others have said if it’s approved they could or should put the window in. Also if they moved somebody else could just follow the plans.

Grumpy_chap

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/6663897/neighbours-extension-boundary-window

The only way to stop the window is to object to the planning permission.

You could discuss with the neighbour in advance and offer them the opportunity to submit amended plans first.

ExEstateAgent

Forget the window, I'd be objecting that they're building up to the boundary line. Their gutters will overhang your property for a start and will make any future plans to extend your home very difficult.

Slinky

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81966365#Comment_81966365

Gutters could be on the front, not the side. Depends on the angle of the roof.

horsewithnoname

https://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/discussion/comment/81965769#Comment_81965769

this seems a reasonable way to go. I’d also explain to the neighbours that while you absolutely trust them to remove the window, you are concerned in case they don’t end up doing what they plan and then a future neighbour doing similar, or something like that, to maintain friendly dealings with your neighbours.