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Loft Conversions-advice Please
partygirl_3
Posts: 12 Forumite
Hi there,
My neighbours who I get on well with wish to have a loft conversion. In order to get more height they will need to drop the floor and this will involve cutting into the party wall to insert steel beams, joist hangers and flashings. They also need to remove a chimney breast and a stack. While I'm ok with their need for a conversion I'm worried about the possible impact on my property. They have said any damage would be put right at their cost, however I guess I'd have to prove it was caused by their work and being a verbal agreement I'm worried about where I stand, especially if they move.
I also think a party wall agreement may cause bad feeling as they have to pay. They have issued me with a party wall structure notice to be returned within 14 days, but I'm unsure what to do. Can I issue them with a homemade document asking them to corfirm any damage would be their responsibilty or wouldn't that be worth anything??
Any advice would be appreciated....
My neighbours who I get on well with wish to have a loft conversion. In order to get more height they will need to drop the floor and this will involve cutting into the party wall to insert steel beams, joist hangers and flashings. They also need to remove a chimney breast and a stack. While I'm ok with their need for a conversion I'm worried about the possible impact on my property. They have said any damage would be put right at their cost, however I guess I'd have to prove it was caused by their work and being a verbal agreement I'm worried about where I stand, especially if they move.
I also think a party wall agreement may cause bad feeling as they have to pay. They have issued me with a party wall structure notice to be returned within 14 days, but I'm unsure what to do. Can I issue them with a homemade document asking them to corfirm any damage would be their responsibilty or wouldn't that be worth anything??
Any advice would be appreciated....
0
Comments
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So, if you don't reply within 14 days then by default this will be treated as if a dispute has arisen. You're best bet is to appoint an 'Agreed Surveyer' to prepare a 'party wall award' and will then inspect to see that the work is compliant. You should keep all these documents with your house deeds; in these days of HIPs and compo culture, you can't be doing with homemade documents.0
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Thanks for that! Any other advice, so that I can make a decision? I'm desperate!0
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Make sure a party wall agreement happens. It doesn't mean it is unfriendly or anything like that, it is just common sense incase anything happens. It will mean both you and your neighbour know where you stand, and will ensure that you will have (hopefully) no problems. Make sure you report any damage ASAP.0
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Regarding this matter does anybody know if it is better to use an 'agreed' surveyor or to appoint my own? Many thanks0
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