Entry on to the grounds of a listed building

[keatsie]

Odd question.

While my wife and I were out today, my son saw 5 people 2 with high viz jackets walking round our garden looking at the house. Can planning or conservations officers just turn up and start walking round without even knocking to let you know?

Or is someone looking to steal lead from the roof..

All comments would be appreciated.

 

[Gareth Hughes]

They can, but it would be very unusual not to knock. And even more unusual for them to be working on a Saturday.

 

[Flyfisher]

According to this info, an 'authorised planning officer' can enter if they have 'reasonable grounds'.
http://www.ivylegal.co.uk/rights-of-entry/4580464700

But, like Gareth, I find it hard to imagine they wouldn't knock first before just looking around.

I don't suppose your son managed to take any photos of them?

 

[MatthewC]

See https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1990/8/section/196C

I think I would have already today asked the council concerned if it was their employees, and why? If it wasn't them, then yes, I would be pretty worried about anything I had of value, like a lead roof.

How old is the son? You might think these days that anyone would pull out their phone and take a few photos, even if they don't dare to confront people like this. Mind you, an elderly friend of mine didn't do that when he had someone drive into his car, and then he lost the subsequent civil case...

 

[CliffordPope]

Five people sounds far more than could be justified by any lawful entry. I'd have called the police if I didn't feel like confronting them.
Entering someone's property unauthorised wearing a high-viz jacket is intimidating and uneccessary for any friendly call.

 

[shobo]

That's one downside of owning a listed building. The feeling that its never really 'yours'.

 

[keatsie]

Thanks everyone...mystery solved.

Turns out the guys we use to cut the huge yew hedge came round to asses for a quote, as we werent in they did a quick wander round the hedge line - wish they had let me know before hand!