IF YOUR home is near the Channel Tunnel Rail Link and you fear that its value is likely to be affected by the rail line, Hobbs Parker’s professional services department says that now is the time to seek advice about possible compensation.

It is ideally placed to offer the advice you need and to assist is Sam Snart, one of the professional services team at Hobbs Parker’s Ashford offices who can help draw up a claim for compensation. He said: “Following the official opening of the CTRL on September 28, anyone who feels they might have a claim should be aware that the claim cannot be submitted until 12 months after the official opening of the scheme under Part 1 of the Land Compensation Act of 1973.”

Costs paid

“If property owners feel that because of the use of the rail line their property has reduced in value they could have a claim and they should contact us so that we can assess the situation on their behalf.”

If a legitimate claim against Union Property is identified and eventually won, all costs are paid for by Union Rail.

Vibration

“People should consider whether the operation of 180 mph trains is likely to have an effect on the value of their property, through noise, vibration or any other legitimate physical factor,” said Sam. “The compensation payable is based on the resulting reduction in value of the property.”

Many properties along the route from Maidstone to Folkestone will be affected.

If you would like advice, first on whether or not you are likely to have a valid claim and secondly how to process such a claim, ring Sam Snart on 01233 502222.