Extension over sewer

Questioner

In 2009 I built an extension where I went over the sewer. Now, after 10 years, the municipality is stating that this is not allowed. This is because the neighbours are also going to expand and it concerns a corner house for which a permit is required. My question is what can I expect from the municipality now when they talk about what is not allowed and inheritance law?

Lawyer

Did you inquire at the municipal counter at the time whether the extension could be realised without a permit?

Questioner

A permit was needed because it was no more than 2.5 mtr. That was permit-free, so no application was made. Last year (after 10 years) the municipality saw that the extension was going over the main sewer of 3 houses. They would rather not have this, the neighbors who now want to extend were told last week.

Lawyer

And you expect enforcement to follow? I think that will not be the case, but perhaps you have unintentionally violated provisions based on civil law. That can be investigated in deeds. However, if a municipality states that they would rather not have something, that is insufficient grounds for argument. The municipality must be able to appeal to the law or agreements that have been made and are in deeds.

Questioner

Thanks for the feedback, we'll wait and see. In the meantime, the neighbors have started and the municipality has not stopped this. I don't know what to expect, I think I'll ask what you think. Hence the email/question.

Questioner

Thanks for the feedback, we'll wait and see. In the meantime, the neighbors have started and the municipality has not stopped this. I don't know what to expect, I think I'll ask what you think. Hence the email/question.