Buying a listed house: How liable am I?
John Conlin
/ 24 November 2016
Chartered surveyor John Conlin advises a reader on the liability of buying a listed house.
05/11/2020
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buying a listed house: how liable am i?
john conlin
What are your responsibilities regarding work carried out on your listed house before you bought it?
What are your responsibilities regarding work carried out on your listed house before you bought it?
Question
I am buying a listed house but am concerned that it has plastic guttering which is clearly out of keeping.
As a new owner could I be liable to replace it with some more appropriate type?
What to do about a neighbour's overhanging tree branch
Answer
Technically you are liable for any unsuitable work carried out by previous owners after the date of Listing. This date can be found online in the Register of British Listed Buildings.
If the present owners cannot provide you with an affidavit confirming that the guttering pre-dated the Listing you should ask them to pay for a single premium indemnity insurance policy.
Saga Home Insurance provides cover that goes beyond what you might expect. For more information and to get a quote click here.
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The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated.
The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.
