Hi everyone. I'm new to this, but need some help.....
We have recently purchased a chalet in the Valais. There is a site for a new build next door. Does anyone know how near to our property line the owners of the land can build?
An answer or an idea of who can help would be much appreciated.
Thanks
Canadian-in-Valais

Dear Canadian-in-England
Typically it would be something like no living space within 4m of the mutual property line ubt it varies even down to the commune level.

Why don't you ask the Notary or office where you signed on the dotted line for the chalet?

It may depend where you are, but 2-3 meters should be possible.

Tom

You need to go to your local commune and find out the specific regs. for your specific location. It can include Canton regs., local regs., and the even more local planning regs. Even things like closeness to the street and building over underground pipes could have an influence.

You also need to ask for a copy of the "extrait du registre foncier" (although you should have received a copy when you bought the property). This will tell you whether there were any agreements in place to allow building closer to the lot line. In some cases owners can agree that one or both parties can build closer to the lot line than building regulations provide for. But such agreements must be registered in the land registry. Your commune will be able to tell you where to get this. It is generally something that is done on a district basis.

Thanks everyone for your prompt replies. Been helpful.
Cheers

Normally 5m of boundary line without specific written consent from adjacent neighbour.

Nope. "Normally" 4 m where I live, 8 m from power lines from the tram.

As stated above, it really does depend. Best speak to the building department in your Gemeinde/Commune.

Probably because I live in a village where we're allowed a metres more breathing space, than city folk.

I live in a village too. So there. Want to compare number of inhabitants?

Generally there is what they call a "Grossabstand" at the front of the house which should be 8m and the other 3 sides are "Kleinabstand" which is 4m.

And if you are only living 8m from power lines you probably glow at night!

Power lines for tram, so not too bad. If you shut your eyes, you don't notice it. And we live within that distance. Had to get special permission.

Although you are right. Of course two houses built 4 m away from their border = 8 m between houses... Not so dumb them Swiss...