common areas

[mandriaman]

Hello Nigel
We live in a development of more than 5 properties in Mandria near the sea but our particular section contains 4 flats only as do the other 3 blocks, so 12 block each with 4 flats in. We have been told that the walkways are common ground and that in effect our property ends at our front door. Is this true?
Thanks

[bitterlemons]

Hi
Further to this email, are the walls which form the boundaries to the pathways and stairs common areas also? Would we need to ask our neighbours permission before putting up a high trellis on top of the wall on our side? We do not have title deeds.

[Nigel Howarth]

Hi mandriaman and welcome,

It's probably true - but it all depends on the scope of the original planning application. If the application included all the blocks of flats then the answer is yes.

The parts of the building that you own outright will be shown on the plan that should have been attached to your contract of sale.

(And you'll also be required to contribute to the costs of insuring and maintaining the common parts of the development; stairwells, entrance halls, paths, swimming pool, gardens, etc, etc, etc.)

Regards,

[Nigel Howarth]

Hi bitterlemons

If you do not have your Title Deeds, you need to discuss this with your developer. As a general rule of thumb:

- If you don't have your Title Deeds speak to you developer.

- If you do have your Title Deeds you need to check with the local Planning Authority before making any external changes to the property.

In addition, the plan that should have been attached to your contract of sale will show which of the boundary walls are yours. To avoid any potential problems with your neighbours discuss it with them (assuming your developer gives you the OK). And you can fix the trellis to 'your' side of the wall to avoid any potential issues.

Regards,

[mandriaman]

Thanks Nigel

[bitterlemons]

Dear Nigel
Once again, thanks for your excellent advice = always good to know you are there to help.