Methane gas vent in garden

[dhartley]

Can anyone give me advice on this please?

I bought a newly built house from Bloor Homes two years ago that was built relatively close to an old coal mine. Because it was known that the site was susceptible to methane gas from the mine the builder was instructed by the local council to develop some form of venting system before planning permission would be granted. Bloors' solution was to fit a membrane beneath the whole site with vent pipes approx 50m apart. The vent pipes are approx 2.5m high, 300mm diameter, dark green in colour, with a spinning silver fan on top. When I initially put the deposit down on the house it was in the early stages of being built and I didn't know that one of the vent pipes would be at the end of my front garden. When I found out I obviously complained, but was offered a substantial discount to complete the sale and took the bait. However, I am now trying to sell my house and although I have had a fair bit of interest, most people see the vent pipe and understandably are put off. My question is, can I do anything about the pipe such as demand that it is redesigned so as not to be such an eyesore, or ultimately have it moved? I have asked Bloor, the Environmental Health, and the local council and each one has said no so far. Any advice would be much appreciated. Regards.

[Phil]

It looks like you are stuck with the pipe and your house unless you drop the price to below market value!

Anyone seeing that vent would assume your house was built on landfill site and steer clear. I would. You got a discount when you bought it now you will have to pass that on.

You may like to check out my new home website where I advise on all aspects regarding buying a brand new home. Re selling is one topic covered and something you should consider before buying a new home.