The builders went absent and the owner then lacked mental capacity...

Date: 12 February 2019 Client: Panel Deputy Project Type: Section 215 Notice Download Case Study (PDF)

The owner of a large detached property in an affluent area was undertaking significant roofing and structural works when the builders went absent and left the owner exploited.

A short while later the owner was placed under the appointed protection of a Panel Deputy, following a determination of Mental Incapacity by the Court of Protection. The owner was subsequently moved to a care home.

The property then remained empty for an extended period and, as a long-term empty property, was eventually was placed under two notices by the Local Authority. The first was issued under Section 215 of The Town and Country Planning Act 1990, due to the state of the incomplete and dangerous building works. The property was unsafe and was an eyesore on the street. The second notice was issued under Section 4 of the Prevention of Damage by Pests Act 1949, as the heavily overgrown gardens and abandoned building materials were a haven for vermin.

UK Property Rescue were instructed by the Panel Deputy, acting on the owner's behalf, to clear the property throughout, and to ensure that the works in both notices were completed to the satisfaction of the Local Authority.

Works instructed and carried out included:-

• Clearing the goods from the property
• Disconnection and making safe the utilities at the property (gas, electrics and water)
• Clearing of overgrown and rubbish-strewn gardens to prevent further rodent infestation
• Removal of part of the previously installed roof
• Installing a new roof
• Installing windows
• Installing new fascias and soffits
• Installing new guttering and down-pipes
• Clearing and cleaning the front driveway