Next door work

[NewNameND]

house just sold and new neighbour is starting renovations. The new neighbours haven’t introduced themselves or said they’re starting work. I’ve not seen them around. I went in and spoke to the builder when he was gutting the inside. He told us they’re reconfiguring downstairs and it doesn’t affect us. there’s a lot of very loud banging and the whole house vibrates. It sounds like they’re working on the shared wall but obviously I can’t say for sure. I’m keeping a look out for any defects on the walls on my side. But I’m worried they’re knocking the chimney breast down or something. I live alone and have bad anxiety. I don’t want to speak to the builder again. He wasn’t very chatty and I really felt like I was bothering him and got a ‘none of your business’ vibe

should I try again or just leave it?

Take a lot of photos of the rooms facing the work. Make sure you record all of the corners and weak points.

save them or email them to yourself, as a record of your house now - and relax…

if there are any problems, you can show they were caused by the building work. It will also show any problems already there, so you don’t feel stressed about someone else causing damage.

if they do cause damage, then think about surveyors etc, but not until/unless it happens. Don’t borrow trouble in anticipation!

unless they cause damage, it really is a case of live and let live. If they start work before 8:00, or after 6:00 (the council will have the exact times in your area) let them get on with it. It is a bother, but people do need to update houses.

Arm yourself with photos and knowledge re when noisy work can take place - park them, in case you need them, then relax knowing you have prepared and informed yourself as far as reasonable.

Just leave it. Building work doesn't last forever and there is no benefit In starting an argument.

How about putting a note through the door saying 'Welcome to the neighbourhood! If you are doing internal works to our shared wall, can you please provide me with a party wall agreement so I can protect my property. Btw, X is the best Chinese in town.'

Half friendly, half formal?