Page 1 of 1
Posted: Fri Oct 24, 2008 12:57 pm
by Colin James
I am joint owner of a 300+ squ m driveway. It was laid over twenty-five years ago. It has standing water, deep ruts, loose whin setts forming an original gutter,loose surface and so on. The joint owner claims to have a report saying that the driveway "fulfills the functions of a driveway" and so does not need maintenance.( I have not seen this yet)
Does anyone know where I can read up on what is the expected life of a normal useage driveway?
I am getting a building surveyor to do a report because I expect to end up in the local court but I would like to get as much information as possible.
Posted: Fri Oct 24, 2008 5:49 pm
by Tony McC
There is no standard for the service life of a driveway: there are so many variables that it would be impossible to give a meaningful value. However, most bitmac is generally assumed to be 'satisfactory' for 20 years.
A statement that an area 'fulfils the functions of a driveway' is completely meaningless: any hardstanding would meet that requirement, but is it safe, serviceable and attractive? You'd probably need to argue that the driveway in its current condition is dangerous and/or detracts from the value of your property.
Posted: Fri Oct 24, 2008 6:38 pm
by lutonlagerlout
300 m is going to cost a few quid, whatever you decide to do
try and sort it out with the neighbour amicably
court could ruin both of you,mentally and financially
LLL
Posted: Fri Oct 24, 2008 7:27 pm
by Dave_L
Agree with above - but if your neighbour hasn't got the money to carry out such works (It could well run to £3500 each) then what's the point in going to court??
Posted: Mon Oct 27, 2008 1:03 pm
by Colin James
Thank you for your replies.
My neighbour' s solution has been to buy a large 4X4 with a high wheelbase, so money is not the problem. His solicitor wrote to me last year saying the driveway was in a "dangerous condition". He has changed solicitors since then and so has his opinion of the driveway.
As to why continue?, that really is obvious. This is my home. Within reason I should be able to enjoy it without dancing around someone's problems. I pay my share of the roof and guttering repairs without question and have already paid out nearly £2000 in other joint repairs which he refused to do.
Colin.
Posted: Tue Oct 28, 2008 7:30 pm
by Tony McC
That's the beauty of solicitors: if you shop around, you'll soon find one that tells you what you want to hear. 