Hi ,
Our neighbor next door recently conducted a loft conversion. During the process, the builders overcut the timber of the roof to accommodate the placement of a steel beam on the party wall. We are uncertain about the correct course of action to address this situation. Should we wait for the builders to complete the work and assess the outcome, or is there a recommended course of action at this stage? Any advice you can provide would be greatly appreciated. For your reference, please find attached photos.
https://photos.app.goo.gl/mcnRAnsY8ErqGtQX7
Are you a tradesperson and able to answer this question?
It looks as though the timbers have been cut to the centre of the party wall, which technically is the boundary line. however, a party wall agreement prior to work starting should have been signed. This basically states that the builders will be responsible for repairing or making good any potential damage that may be caused while undertaking the works required. In this instance the work would be to make good your side of the roof and ensure it is water tight on completion. It may be worth talking to the builders nicely so as not to cause animosity to establish that this is their intention upon completion. If this turns out not to be the case, you may have grounds to have the work halted while a survey is preformed by an independent surveyor and an agreement put in place to ensure the corrective works are undertaken prior to he overall completion of works.
The timbers seem to have been cut into the party wall's center, constituting the boundary line. A prior party wall agreement should have been signed, obligating the builders to repair any resulting damage. For your roof, discuss with the builders their commitment to making it watertight post-completion. If needed, consider temporarily halting work for an independent surveyor's assessment and agreement on corrective measures before project completion.
