In this weeks property surveying blog post, we are going to be discussing Access Licences, when they are required, and the type of issues they deal with.
An Access Licence is required when one owner intends to undertake construction works to their property, and in order to complete those construction works, require access onto the neighbouring owner’s land.
If these works are not for maintenance, or repair, the owner undertaking the works will not have legal right of access onto the neighbouring owner’s land.
This means that they will therefore need to enter into Access Licence discussions with their neighbour, covering the proposed works and ensuring that the necessary legal and temporary protections are in place, thereby safeguarding the neighbouring owner.
Access is one of the most hotly debated topics within the surveying industry, and in many cases, owners will not find out that they require an Access License until right at the end of the pre-work construction procedures.
We would always advise discussing the proposals with your neighbours in a neighbourly manner as soon as you can. That way you can ensure they are fully informed of the proposed works and ultimately ensure they are best prepared for when you do ultimately enter into access discussions.
Access Licences can cover all types of things from site security, to working hours, to damage procedures in the unfortunate event of it, to rental/access premiums, and generally speaking, any other matter that pertains to the proposed works.
If you believe that your works may require an Access Licence, or your neighbour is planning construction works to their property and you believe they require access onto your land, give our team of experienced and qualified Chartered Surveyors a call now, and we will be more than happy to assist you.
