Many homeowners think of loft conversions in Redhill. But a question in their mind is whether the neighbour can stop them from doing so.
Here are the points to remember while planning for the conversion of the loft
Being aware of the duties and rights
In general, the homeowners can construct the improvements to their property. It includes the loft conversions, providing they go by all applicable planning and building codes. In the UK, the loft conversions are covered under the permitted development rights. It means that as long as they satisfy certain requirements, such as not going over a particular height or volume, they don’t need planning permission. Before starting any work, it is advisable to consult an architect, professional loft conversions, or your local planning department. You need to ensure your loft conversion doesn’t hurt your neighbour as the property owner. This can involve problems like shared wall damage, light loss, or noise disturbance. Consider how your goals might influence the people around you before beginning any conversion.
A party wall agreement is needed when there is an adjoining wall with the neighbour
The legal document known as a party wall agreement delineates the entitlements and obligations of landowners who have shared one or more walls with their neighbours. The purpose of the agreement is to avoid any disagreements about your intended loft conversion by outlining the protocols to be observed when making repairs to a common wall, roof, or structure.
The Party Wall, etc. Act 1996, which is applicable in England and Wales, mandates the need for a party wall agreement. Property owners are legally required to give written notice to their neighbours when they intend to undertake any work that may impact the party wall or other structure. A surveyor may be required to draft a party wall agreement if the neighbour voices concerns.
Resolving any disputes with neighbours
Regrettably, disagreements between neighbours are frequently encountered during the loft conversion process. The first thing to do if your neighbour opposes your loft conversion is to try to discuss your plans with them and see if you can come to a mutually beneficial agreement. Finding common ground and expressing concerns to both parties is made possible through communication, which is essential in conflict resolution.
It is beneficial to hear your neighbour’s concerns during these discussions and to think about whether you can modify your plans in a way that makes sense. This can entail altering the layout you had in mind, lowering the loft conversion’s height or volume, or coming up with other options to ease their worries without sacrificing your original ideas.
Contact Ashdown Lofts Ltd. for appropriate and skilled loft conversions in Redhill. With a range of loft conversions available, we firmly assert that we are among the greatest loft conversion experts and have shown to be such.