If you’re facing the prospect of a new road, railway, or other major infrastructure project near your property, you may find that your property’s value is significantly impacted, making it difficult to sell at a fair price.
Thankfully, blight notices can mitigate the impact of a drop in market value. Let’s take a look at what blight notices are, the application process, and the eligibility criteria that must be met.
Contact your local Whitegates branch for expert advice and guidance.
Understanding blight notices
A blight notice is a legal document that property owners can serve to public authorities when their property has been negatively affected by large-scale public projects.
The purpose of a blight notice is to force the organisation in charge of the project to buy the damaged property at its full market value. This helps to protect property owners from losing money as a result of their home’s value decreasing because of the projects.
Find out the current value of your home
How blight notices affect property value
Properties within a designated blighted area are challenging to sell at their full market value. Some potential buyers may be deterred by disruption, noise, and environmental changes. This can lead to a decrease in demand and, consequently, a drop in value.
Related: What is a guide price?
Common reasons for blight notices
Blight notices are often issued when properties are affected by public infrastructure projects, such as new roads, railways, or airports. Other common reasons for blight notices include developments that lead to increased noise, pollution, or a lack of amenities.
Eligibility criteria for blight notices
To be eligible for a blight notice, certain criteria must be met. The property must be within a designated blighted area, meaning it is directly affected by the proposed public works. The applicant must both own the property and occupy it as their main residence.
Additionally, the owner must be able to demonstrate that they have made an effort to sell the property but have been unable to do so at a fair price due to a project.
Related: How to get your property ready to sell
How to apply for a blight notice
Check you meet the criteria
If you believe you are eligible to apply for a blight notice, the first step is to review the criteria. You must contact your local council to ensure that your property is located in a designated blighted area and demonstrate that its value has been negatively affected.
Preparing your documentation
To support your application, you will need to provide proof of property ownership, evidence that you have tried to sell the property, and a valuation report that shows the impact of the project on your property’s value. Any evidence of communication with potential buyers or estate agents that shows issues with selling due to the project can also strengthen your case.
Submitting your blight notice
Once you have prepared your documentation, the next step is to submit your blight notice to the relevant authority. This is usually the government body or public authority responsible for the proposed development. Along with your documents, you will be required to complete a blight notice form.
Related : Selling when your property has known issues
What happens next?
The relevant authority will review your application and the evidence you have submitted. This can take several weeks or even months, and you may be asked for additional information or evidence to help them come to a decision. If your blight notice is accepted, the authority will enter into negotiations to purchase your property at its full market value.
