how can we Support neighbouring patio and sun lounge as our footings are deeper

L

Lk1980

Joined
24 Feb 2007
Messages
144
Reaction score
4
Location
Birmingham
Country
United Kingdom
Hello Everyone,

I was hoping someone could advise. We have a semi detached property and my neighbour has a patio and sun lounge. We are building an extension but due the trees in her garden (which are less than 3 meters) structural engineers have asked to go for step footings (1.2, 1.7 & 2.1 meters respectively)

The builder said once they start excavating (especially where footings are deep) there is a very miniscule chance of land slide depending on the quality of the land beneath neighbour's patio.

I have asked him to ensure his insurance is sufficient to cover the damage if it happens. Also, I was wondering if anyone can suggest ways we can ask builders to provide support whilst construction is underway to support the neighbouring patio and the sun lounge whilst we put the footings in place or build a retaining wall. Drawings attached.

Thanks,
LK
 

Attachments

They should shore the trench, it's basic stuff.

Remind them of their obligations under CDM Regulations 2015, and to prepare risk assessments and method statements. However, strictly this may be the responsibility (or jointly) of the engineers who designed the foundations. As the client it's your obligation to ensure this is done, else you become personally liable too.

Ask to see a valid Public Liability insurance cover from the builders, and Professional Indemnity cover from the engineers.
 
How close are the new foundations to your neighbours property?
 
^woody^ said:
They should shore the trench, it's basic stuff.

Remind them of their obligations under CDM Regulations 2015, and to prepare risk assessments and method statements. However, strictly this may be the responsibility (or jointly) of the engineers who designed the foundations. As the client it's your obligation to ensure this is done, else you become personally liable too.

Ask to see a valid Public Liability insurance cover from the builders, and Professional Indemnity cover from the engineers.
Click to expand...

Thank you very much woody. I will remind the structural engineer of CDM Regulations and also have a word with the architect.
 
jks7492 said:
Have you served a party wall notice?
Click to expand...
Yep and she has consented. She has also however, written a letter advising us that she consents to the proposed work but she wants more detailed drawings drawn up. summary of her conditions below.


1. Section Drawing detailing the level difference between both properties. (I do not understand, if we are building entirely on our land why is it required) neither building control or planning officers asked for it prior to their approval. I will have to pay the architect separately again to prepare extra set of drawings.

2. Neighbour wants us to submit proposals to her to ensure stability of her sun longe and patio in temporary and permanent condition

3. Proposal to ensure the spread of foundation does not encroach her property.

4. A meeting with a project manager and contractor to discuss appropriate works as referred to in the party wall act 199 part 2 points 5 & 30 along other points arising (which she has not mentioned in her acknowledgement letter.)
 
bineet said:
Yep and she has consented. She has also however, written a letter advising us that she consents to the proposed work but she wants more detailed drawings drawn up. summary of her conditions below.


1. Section Drawing detailing the level difference between both properties. (I do not understand, if we are building entirely on our land why is it required) neither building control or planning officers asked for it prior to their approval. I will have to pay the architect separately again to prepare extra set of drawings.

2. Neighbour wants us to submit proposals to her to ensure stability of her sun longe and patio in temporary and permanent condition

3. Proposal to ensure the spread of foundation does not encroach her property.

4. A meeting with a project manager and contractor to discuss appropriate works as referred to in the party wall act 199 part 2 points 5 & 30 along other points arising (which she has not mentioned in her acknowledgement letter.)
Click to expand...
2.1 metre deep foundations? This could be very costly especially if you start chuntering CDM regs and the like. Ultimately the customer pays for everything so be careful which wasp nests you prod.
 
noseall said:
2.1 metre deep foundations? This could be very costly especially if you start chuntering CDM regs and the like. Ultimately the customer pays for everything so be careful which wasp nests you prod.
Click to expand...

Hello noseall.
Thankyouforyourreply. 2.1 meters is because of the trees in neighbours garden.
 
bineet said:
Hello noseall.
Thankyouforyourreply. 2.1 meters is because of the trees in neighbours garden.
Click to expand...
No, I get that. It’s just that anything beyond a metre dig and the costs rise exponentially/disproportionally. It’s ten times more difficult to excavate at twice the (1m) depth.
 
bineet said:
So what is the alternative?
Click to expand...
Piles or a raft. 2.1 is manageable - just. But be aware that as the customer you are liable for costs. We specifically state 1m dig on all quotes. Anything deeper must be discussed on site depending on soil conditions.
 
noseall said:
Piles or a raft. 2.1 is manageable - just. But be aware that as the customer you are liable for costs. We specifically state 1m dig on all quotes. Anything deeper must be discussed on site depending on soil conditions.
Click to expand...
Thank you noseall. It's just neighbour has a cherry Blossom tree and to ensure roots do not create trouble, the structural engineer has advised a nib of 2.1 meters. I can always ask to re visit the drawings.

If we change the foundations, do we have to go back to building control?
 
bineet said:
If we change the foundations, do we have to go back to building control?
Click to expand...
Specialist foundations will need to be designed and possibly checked by Building Control, yes.

I wouldn’t be put off by a 2.1 m trench dig, but there are risks. What is machine access like to the site?
 
noseall said:
No, I get that. It’s just that anything beyond a metre dig and the costs rise exponentially/disproportionally. It’s ten times more difficult to excavate at twice the (1m) depth.
Click to expand...

What machine does that?
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top