2 Commercial Buildings Sharing Common Wall

gborotiger

Can anyone please help me with this problem? We own half of a building that is shared by a common wall. The entire building needs to have the roof replaced. The other half of the building is sitting empty and the owner is not concerned with the structure. I need to protect my building and must replace the roof on my side. The roof is constructed as 4 gables. At the valley between gable 2 and 3 is the common wall separating the buildings. The valley is approximately 5 feet wide and has been patched and spot repaired over the years. It is to the point that it now needs major structural work. In order to replace my side of the roof, I must go onto at least a few feet of his side. I would like to separate the two buildings but do not think it could be done easily. The roof frame meets at the valley.
Does anyone know if this could be done?
Also, are there any legal ramifications if I step onto his side while completing this project?
Thanks for your help.

Teetorbilt

There has to be some clause in the deed that covers this. Look for anything 'common', this should include roof, exterior paint, common areas, etc.

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mdshunk

That's one of the "benefits" of owning 1/2 of a building. Sometimes you need to fix the other fella's problem to save your building. It's normal, in my observation. Nobody in their right mind is going to prevent you from walking on his roof a bit to make repairs to yours. I set up ladders on adjoining properties all the time to service the property next door. It's just what you gotta do.

Tom M

The roof is consructedd of 4 gables and center is a valley and not the ridge of one of the gables? I cant picture this unless there is unequal property space. You can bring the common wall through the roof and build a parapet but you say its in a valley. Either way you need to spell out the need to repair your side to the other party by at least a private letter that also states necessacity to extend repairs beyond personal barriers. It should note that the repairer is properly insured and the material being used is equal or better than existing. With these notes mention you have inquired all parties to change materials and was denied. Then put a line that says by signing this letter permission has been granted to do needed repairs to ajoining area.

joasis

Simple solution is to buy his building.

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PHI

Have your attorney send the owner a letter advising him of the problem & it needs to be corrected. His property is adversly affecting your, That's against the law. Let me know