A cease and disist order on building work.

[Chrissy123]

Hello, my friends are building an extension. The Husband who was a builder until his health problems in recent years has been sent a letter from a neighbour demanding they stop work and threatening legal action. Does anyone have any knowledge about this sort of thing I'm sure they are going to need to see a solicitor but I'm absolutely shocked about this, the whole road know how ill he is and he's been trying to get the work finished so his family aren't left with another problem should the worst happen to him. Thank you in advance if anyone can reply.

 

[Murdochcat]

On what basis are they stating this should happen?

No party wall agreement?

 

[freddiemercurystwin]

Probably fed up with a build taking years? How long's he been building it?

I know of a few round here, one a two storey detached garage monstrosity that's been going for about 10 years and a mahoosive new build house that was started in about 2007, then halted in the 2008 crash, then it started up again with full gusto about two years ago and now it's stopped again.

 

[Chrissy123]

On what basis are they stating this should happen?

No party wall agreement?

Probably fed up with a build taking years? How long's he been building it?

I know of a few round here, one a two storey detached garage monstrosity that's been going for about 10 years and a mahoosive new build house that was started in about 2007, then halted in the 2008 crash, then it started up again with full gusto about two years ago and now it's stopped again.

They have stated everything under the sun. It has been on hold because of his health and getting some trades in the area when you can't do it yourself is very very hard I know myself.
I think the party wall is was named. My friends husband believes it wasn't necessary but I can't remember the reason why.
Is there a certain number of years work must be completed.
I think foundations went in 3 years ago, not sure about much but I'll find out if there's any other questions you have?

 

[stevie888]

Party Wall only required if you're digging deeper than their founds within 3m so that is a straightforward yes or no. 3 years after the event though??

If planning was involved then you need to start within 3 years but otherwise no limits. Some BCs might huff and puff mind!

 

[mattylad]

In essence, a letter from a neighbour carries no weight to be able to stop him working.
Carry on building.

Only a cease and desist from a solicitor actually carries any weight and even then it needs to quote some relevant legislation, which you can then check actually applies.

 

[Murdochcat]

Is your “friend” detached or semi?