Crane Licenses
The construction of a multi-storey building will generally require the use of a crane and if the site is within a built-up area it may be necessary for that crane to oversail adjoining properties. On the basis that a landowner’s rights stretch all the way up to the stars the adjoining owner’s express consent will be required.
If an adjoining owner does consent to access they will normally want the assurance of a formal License and that License will generally include a consideration.
It would generally be considered too dangerous for a crane to pass over an adjoining owner’s land while loaded so the License will restrict the oversailing to when the crane is out of use.
Crane oversailing Licenses have become less common in recent years with the more widespread use of cranes with luffing-jibs i.e. jibs that tilt giving a variable working radius. However, luffing jib cranes are more expensive to hire than tower cranes with fixed jibs so are only used in situations where access over adjoining properties is either not possible or prohibitively expensive.
Prior to the crane being erected a written record of those parts of the adjoining owner’s property which are at risk from the works should be taken together with a set of supporting photographs. This schedule of condition is then attached to the Licence and can be referred back to if damage is reported.
If you require any advice on matters relating to crane licenses please do not hesitate to contact us either via email or on 020 7183 2578
RELATED BLOG POSTS
11 Ways to Keep the Cost of Party Wall Procedures Down
If badly handled, party wall procedures can add many thousands of pounds to the costs of your building project but there are plenty of things you (and your surveyor) can do to keep costs to a minimum. Speak to your neighbours before serving notice This isn't always possible, if the property is let or the ... Read More >>
Don’t forget your License to Alter!
There are many different elements that will need to be considered in order for the vision of your extension to become a reality and it is apparent that a layperson is often unaware what professional help may be required along the way - there are the obvious ones; Architect, engineer and contractor, and to a lesser extent, the ... Read More >>
Preparing Party Wall Notices for a Rear Extension
As a recent graduate and Assistant Surveyor, a large part of my training was party wall related. As part of that training I spent time assisting the team that deal with new enquiries in sending fee proposals and liaising with owners. I thought it might be helpful to work through an example relating to a rear extension. When ... Read More >>