Ok, so I have read every single thread and every post and since the CFNs are hiding away I think we should start placing bets now on who and what we believe has really happened.
So here is mine:
Listed apartment conversion in Exeter (reserve the right to change city but I read something about Exeter so am going with that)
CFN is a Chinese student due to start Exeter Uni in September but from a wealthy family oversees, lots of money available but no local knowledge.
CFN's parents have bought the property for her to live in for 3-4 years, and have agreed to do some home "improvements" to increase the value of the property and improve their DD's living arrangements whilst in the U.K.
After DD graduates and returns home with a very impressive UK degree from an acclaimed RG university, parents will sell "improved" property for a massive increased value.
Parents want work done with cheapest quote available and recruit unqualified, dodgy builders because they don't know any different .
Builders agree to do it because the property is miles away and they reckon they will be untraceable when the shit hits the fan as their customers don't have any local knowledge.
Everyone's a winner.
Only we know they won't be, will they?
CFN has possibly no real idea of what she has done so far but has seen planning letter so got dodgy builders back, or different builders? To fit a new door just like the OP because then it will be all be ok with the planning people won't it?
CFN hasn't yet had solicitors letter from OP so doesn't even really understand that she can't just share the garden, and possibly invite all her new friends around to share too. Lots of lovely students from all corners of the globe in the garden chatting and socialising and sharing tales and food from home.
Soon she will will have a better idea.
Anyway, that's my thoughts and I have a pound on it, what are yours?