Key safe between properties

[Breadbaker]

So this is my first post but have been lurking for a while. I'd like a bit of mumsnet advice if possible!

We are about to exchange on a property that has a key safe mounted to a shared pole within the storm porch. It doesn't belong to the property we are going to buy but the neighbours.

I'd like to put double glazing in to enclose the porch in the future but the key safe will stop us being able to do this.

If we go ahead and exchange before this has been sorted what sort of problems do you think we would we face later? How would we deal with this if it wasn't sorted out before exchange? Also my concern is if we get the sellers to deal with it, it might not be dealt with the same way as we would which might not start us off well with the new neighbours. It will also delay the exchange and we need to move ASAP.

If it helps at all this is a probate sale.

Any advice would be appreciated

Well, they are easy enough to remove, provided you have the code to open it. (I removed one a few weeks ago, and the screws are on the inside, I presume they are all similar).
I am totally guessing that this was for the neighbours to use to get access to the property you are buying to assist the occupants if necessary. I really can't see a problem, just remove it when you move in. It will be your property, do what you like,it is no different to removing a shelf or something.
Although I don't understand what you mean by 'a shared pole'? What is that exactly, and why is there anything shared in your storm porch?

If the pole is shared will you be allowed to double glaze up to it?
Re the safe if you offered to resite it for them I can’t see why they would care. They can go into any stonework.

Do you mean the position of the key safe will physically prevent you from enclosing your porch with double-glazing, or do you mean the presence of it means you won't be able to enclose (because your neighbours need access to it).

Either way, insisting that it is re-sited so you are not impacted (and sorting it before the sale) seems the only way forward.

Thanks for all the replies!

Yes it's location will stop us being able to put in the glazing as it's been mounted on the inside of the pole which attaches to the brickwork below.

I think one of the issues is it looks really land grabby to ask them to remove it and I don't want to get off on the wrong foot but not sure why anyone would place it there when it doesn't fully belong to them!

Most people along the street have enclosed the porch so it should be ok but of believe it's the only thing that'll stop us from doing it.