59. Identifying past disputes or complaints
Discovering any past disputes or complaints concerning your property or neighbouring properties is essential for informed decision-making, particularly in property transactions.
Here is how you can go about finding this information:
Local authority records |
- Planning department: Contact your local planning department to inquire about any planning applications, objections, or complaints related to your property or nearby properties. They may have records of disputes concerning building works, zoning violations, or development proposals.
- Environmental health department: Check with the environmental health department for any complaints regarding noise, pollution, or other environmental issues that may have affected your property or the surrounding area.
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Property title search |
- Land Registry: Conduct a search with the Land Registry to obtain a copy of the property title. This document may contain information about any legal disputes or notices affecting the property, such as boundary disputes or rights of way.
- Seller's disclosure: If you are purchasing a property, request a seller's disclosure statement. Sellers are typically required to disclose any known issues or disputes related to the property, including past disputes with neighbours or legal proceedings.
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Neighbourhood enquiries |
- Talk to neighbours: Engage with neighbours to gather information about any past disputes or complaints that may have occurred in the neighbourhood. They may be aware of issues that have affected multiple properties or ongoing concerns.
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Online research |
- Local news archives: Search online archives of local newspapers or news websites for any reports on disputes or complaints involving your property or the surrounding area.
- Community forums or social media: Explore online community forums or social media groups where residents discuss local issues. These platforms may provide insights into past disputes or ongoing concerns.
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Professional services |
- Property inspection: Hire a professional property inspector to assess the property thoroughly. They may identify any physical signs of past disputes or structural issues that require further investigation.
- Legal advice: Consult with a real estate lawyer or conveyancer to review any potential legal implications of past disputes or complaints. They can provide guidance on disclosure requirements and legal obligations.
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Disclosing past disputes or complaints
When disclosing past disputes or complaints related to your property, honesty and transparency are crucial. Here is how you can disclose this information:
- Seller's disclosure statement: If you are selling a property, include any relevant information about past disputes or complaints in the seller's disclosure statement. Provide details about the nature of the dispute, how it was resolved (if applicable), and any ongoing concerns.
- Property listing: If you are listing a property for sale or rent, consider mentioning any known disputes or complaints in the property listing description. This allows potential buyers or tenants to make informed decisions.
- Communication with buyers or tenants: During property viewings or negotiations, openly discuss any past disputes or complaints with prospective buyers or tenants. Answer any questions they may have and provide documentation or evidence to support your disclosures.
- Legal advice: Seek guidance from a real estate lawyer or conveyancer on your disclosure obligations. They can help ensure that you comply with legal requirements and mitigate the risk of future disputes.
By proactively identifying and disclosing past disputes or complaints related to your property, you can foster transparency and trust with potential buyers or tenants while minimising the risk of legal issues down the line.
