Buying a house on a private road has many implications. As well as the pros and cons of properties on private roads, buying one can mean more issues for your conveyancer or solicitors to look into. 

In this blog, we look at what we mean by a private road, why properties on private roads appeal to buyers and what potential pitfalls you should be aware of too.

What is a private road?

A private road is one that is not maintained by the local authority. Instead, it’s owned and maintained by either the resident(s) or the developer. Maintenance can include resurfacing and repairing the roads, as well as cutting grass verges and pruning street trees. In a private road, the owners of the road usually have indemnity insurance too, to cover compensation in situations like visitors slipping on ice.

If the road is maintained by the residents, they might have set up a formal or informal management company to pay for the upkeep of the road. Some residents of private roads pay a regular amount into a central pot of money which pays for upkeep. On other private roads, residents simply chip in as and when repairs are needed. These are details that your solicitor will find out during the conveyancing process. 

Often, roads in new-build developments are owned by the developer until the development is completely finished. After that, the road is “adopted” by the local authority. 

If you’re interested in buying a particular property and you think it might be on a private road, you can check with your local authority. In Surrey, there is an interactive map on their website here. And if you’re still not sure, you can contact the Surrey County Council highways team on 0300 200 1003.  

What are the advantages of living on a private road?

Private by name, private by nature! A private road is often used only by the people who live there. This reduces noise and other inconveniences, like inconsiderate parking and litter. 

When you live in a private road, you also have the power to solve problems quickly. If there is a pothole that you know would take the local authority months to fix, you and the other residents can book a road crew and have it repaired straightaway. For this reason, many private roads are beautifully maintained, keeping standards high and helping properties retain their value.

What are the disadvantages of living on a private road?

A private road is a responsibility. If the road needs repairing or the street trees need pruning, it’s up to you and the other residents to solve the problem in a way that you’re all happy with. 

Residents of private roads have to make decisions collectively. For example, even if you don’t use a car, you’ll still be expected to pay for road maintenance. In some unlucky situations, established residents of the private road might be unwilling to accept their responsibilities, impacting everyone else. 

A private road is also an additional expense. There is no reduction in council tax because you live on a private road, but any road maintenance has to be paid for by the residents. As a resident, you may have to pay a regular amount of money to the road’s management company, or be ready to make payments on an ad hoc basis. 

These are all issues that your solicitor will find during the conveyancing process. They will present you with all the facts before you commit to the sale. Fortunately, you have the option to reconsider your purchaseif you discover you’re taking on more responsibility than you’re happy with. 

Buying property on a private road in Surrey

If you’ve seen the perfect property but it’s on a private road, don’t be put off. Private roads come with expenses and responsibilities, but it’s well worth finding out all the facts. Private roads can be lovely, quiet places to live, and the responsibilities might well be less onerous than you think. 

And if you’re selling property on a private road, we hope you’ll consider Cobbles! Explore our site to see what we offer, or get in touch on 01483 457 000.