Shared soakaway

[Debpaul]

We are considering buying a new build property with a communal rainwater soakaway in the back garden that connects 3 other properties.  A couple of questions...would appreciate any thoughts and insights

1. What is the maintenance requirements for soakaways?

2. How to get into an agreement with the neighbours for shared maintenance to avoid issues in future? Note, this is a new build and other plots are yet to be sold.

3. Would it be illegal to disallow discharge from other properties in future if maintenance of the soakaway becomes difficult.

 

[Temp]

Have a look at the title deeds for all the properties involved and discuss with your solicitor. There should be something in there already about the soakaway. Their right to use it and and maintenance.

 

It will be difficult or impossible to add something that binds the neighbours unless the other houses haven't been sold yet, then the seller could add something  when they are.

 

If the neighbouring houses have already been sold the deeds should be available from land registry for just a £few. They are sent by email seconds after you pay. This is the real land registry Web site. Beware of fakes that charge more.

 

https://eservices.landregistry.gov.uk/eservices/FindAProperty/view/QuickEnquiryInit.do?_ga=2.256197643.1208010228.1630642415-877028900.1600035571

 

You might also ask the seller for evidence the soakaway  has been sized correctly for three houses.