Common mistakes homeowners should avoid

Brits are being warned that they could face hefty fines this autumn for unknowingly breaching common property laws.

The home insurance experts at Tiger.co.uk have highlighted regulations that some homeowners may not be aware of, which could cost them an eye-watering sum of up to £20,000.

Home ownership can be incredibly stressful, with the sheer volume of tasks – with routine maintenance and repairs sometimes feeling overwhelming. The start of autumn can be an ideal time to tackle home renovations and prepare for the cold, damp and stormy months ahead.

Neglecting property upkeep can see homeowners slapped with significant fines for violations such as untidy gardens, blocked gutters, an outdated fireplace or overflowing bins.

Ian Wilson, home insurance expert and Managing Director at Tiger.co.uk said: “As a homeowner, it can be tough to always keep on top of household maintenance and repairs. But failing to keep your property in good condition can have a serious impact on your home insurance, as most providers will not cover any loss or damage that is caused by poor or inadequate maintenance.

“It is also vital that you know your legal obligations as a homeowner, otherwise you could land yourself in trouble with your local council. While some property laws are well known, there are others that you may not even be aware you are breaking, particularly if you are a first-time buyer.

“To help you avoid any unwanted fines, the team at Tiger.co.uk has listed some common mistakes that homeowners could accidentally be making.”

Five property laws you may be breaking without realising:

1.In the weeds

Homeowners may face legal action if they allow their garden to become overgrown, as it can be deemed to be a nuisance to neighbours. Unkempt gardens not only impact the appearance of a neighbourhood, but they can also pose health hazards by attracting vermin. Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, local councils have the power to issue homeowners with an abatement notice – ignoring this order is a criminal offence and can lead to a maximum fine of £5,000.*

2.Up in smoke

Many areas of the UK are designated as smoke control areas, meaning households could face fines of up to £300 if their chimneys produce excessive smoke. To avoid this, homeowners who have a traditional coal fireplace or an older wood burning stove, may want to consider upgrading to a government-exempt appliance, which are designed and tested to operate within strict environmental standards for emissions and efficiency.**

3.Gutter clutter

Autumn is a prime time for blockages in gutters and drains, with falling leaves, twigs and moss causing a build-up that, if left unchecked, could lead to a host of problems. Clogged guttering can be a haven for birds, rodents and other pests, and councils can take enforcement action. If homeowners don’t carry out the repairs, the local authority may do the work itself and recover the costs from the person responsible.***

4.Home improvements

While renovation projects are an exciting way to breathe new life into a home, it is crucial to check whether any alterations to the property require planning permission. Minor or interior works such as loft or garage conversions, bathrooms, kitchens or rewiring, typically don’t need planning permission, but other renovations such as building extensions may require formal planning consent. The Town and Country Planning Act 1990 allows councils to take enforcement action for breaches of planning control, and failure to comply could lead to a fine of £20,000.

5.Don’t forget bin day

Many councils have strict enforcement policies when it comes to breaches of household waste collection rules, with fines of up to £80 being doled out to repeat offenders. Fixed penalties can be issued if wheelie bins are in an unsightly condition, have been left out for several days or are causing an obstruction to neighbours.

Tiger.co.uk gives customers the tools to help them compare and find savings on home insurance.

References:

*https://www.gov.uk/guidance/statutory-nuisances-how-councils-deal-with-complaints

**https://smokecontrol.defra.gov.uk/appliances-php/

***https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer/water/sewerage/who-is-responsible-for-repairing-drains-and-sewers/#:~:text=Your%20local%20authority%20environmental%20health%20department%20can,work%20themselves%20and%20charge%20you%20for%20it.

****https://www.kslaw.co.uk/site/planning-law/objections-to-orders/enforcement-notices/

*****https://www.gov.uk/guidance/household-waste-bins-when-and-how-councils-may-issue-fixed-penalties

This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.