deed of grant for easement

[coolplayer]

A developer has contacted me recently suggesting that I enter into a deed of grant for easement to allow him to construct a foul sewer across my land for an approx. length of 6Metres. He has intimated that such a route would give rise to savings for him an indicated that an immediate cash payment would be made to me. I wondered precisely what value of payment I could reasonably expect in consideration that the deed requires 24/7 access across my front garden without notice in emergencies combined with the fact that the developer would clearly be saving money himself by taking this route. the development comprises:

5 x 4 bed detached houses circa �450,000 each

2 x 3 bed semis circa �300,000 each

3 x 3 bed mews circa � 280,000 each

thanks in advance

[WendyS]

I have no idea what would be a reasonable sum to ask but perhaps you should call his bluff and ask him what figure he had in mind, then if somebody else can answer your question you'll know whether he's trying to swindle you. Another thing to bear in mind is whether the foul sewer will end up being beneath land in your front garden which you might subsequently want to cover with paving or tarmac because I'm sure you'd then be delighted if subsequent problems in any of the ten houses caused all your paving to be dug up, probably at your expense.

Do you park your cars in your front garden? If you live in an area surrounded by double yellow lines in the street and were forced to have to find somewhere else to park your cars for a week while your garden was dug up for emergency sewer repairs, would it invconvenience you? I'm sure you'll check this issue out with your solicitor in case there are any other unforeseen issues you need to be aware of. Frankly, unless it was a very generous amount of money I'd rather keep my independence and not be bothered with the liability. If you were ever to sell your house, a future buyer might not been very keen about the commitment.

[coolplayer]

thanks wendys you have made some interesting points thanks v much

[lwa99bgp]

First thing I'd suggest is to get a solicitor involved. You will then be able to ensure things are done on your terms.

I'd certainly insist that any damage during the installation and subsequent access is met by the developer and/or residents at the development.

A solicitor will also be able to ensure that the obligation doesn't affect the value or saleability of your house.

I did see one of those developer shows on TV where the guy got �20,000 for allowing his neighbour to put in a sewer pipe, although not sure how typical that was (although once again a solicitor should be able to advise on this).

[coolplayer]

thanks iwa99 your comments are interesting I have been offered circa 5K not alot really

[WendyS]

For �5K I don't think it's worth the hastle unless you're desperate for the money. It would probably cost you more than this to have your front drive or garden professionally block paved ! Sounds as if the developer is trying to buy you off on the cheap.

[coolplayer]

Many thanks wendyS I agree with your comments it's most probably more trouble than it's worth and may seriously affect the resale value of my property should I ever wish to sell