Firstly, apologies for my complete lack of knowledge on any of the below:
I am trying to buy a house which was extended in the 1990's (by the predecessors to the current owners). Effective a two storey extension was added, doubling the kitchen size and adding a bedroom above.
My solicitor has just sent me purchase papers including decision notices for (a) Two storey and single storey extensions - 1997, and (b) Rear extension to form kitchen utility, family room and bedroom - 1999. He's commented that the local search has shown up no completion cert for this second application.
Clearly both pieces of work weren't done - either one or the other (or even something else entirely which doesn't have permission). To hazard a guess, I'd say that the early application covered the actual extension and as there is no utility room or family room in the house (but a lovely big space where I'd build one!), the second part wasn't ever done.
Could that explain the lack of completion certificate for the second application? Also, could I find out for sure i.e. can you see old plans if you visit the appropriate planning office?
And if I do that (and then find actually that the 1999 planning app was the relevant one, being the one without the completion certificate), will that scupper my chances of getting indemnity insurance for the missing certificate? Many thanks in advance,
Paula
I am trying to buy a house which was extended in the 1990's (by the predecessors to the current owners). Effective a two storey extension was added, doubling the kitchen size and adding a bedroom above.
My solicitor has just sent me purchase papers including decision notices for (a) Two storey and single storey extensions - 1997, and (b) Rear extension to form kitchen utility, family room and bedroom - 1999. He's commented that the local search has shown up no completion cert for this second application.
Clearly both pieces of work weren't done - either one or the other (or even something else entirely which doesn't have permission). To hazard a guess, I'd say that the early application covered the actual extension and as there is no utility room or family room in the house (but a lovely big space where I'd build one!), the second part wasn't ever done.
Could that explain the lack of completion certificate for the second application? Also, could I find out for sure i.e. can you see old plans if you visit the appropriate planning office?
And if I do that (and then find actually that the 1999 planning app was the relevant one, being the one without the completion certificate), will that scupper my chances of getting indemnity insurance for the missing certificate? Many thanks in advance,
Paula