Q I have been on sickness benefit, now renamed Employment and Support Allowance.
A friend wants to leave money to me in their will. They have asked me to find out the limit, as they do not want me to get into bother will the DWP. I have tried several times but I keep getting a different answer.
A I am not a benefits expert but all the material I have looked at does not include a capital means test, which would mean your friend could leave you whatever they wish.
However, I suggest you make an appointment with your local Citizen's Advice Bureau as advisers there are much better qualified to give benefits advice.
Q I left my car in a car park and returned to find it scratched. A man gave me the registration number of the vehicle which had caused the scratch. Can I get the driver's details through DVLA?
A Possibly. You can only get the name and address of the registered keeper of another vehicle if you can show "reasonable cause" for needing the information. The DVLA must consider the reasons why you need the information and how it will be used. There are data protection rules that stop you getting it automatically. However, if you have a legal claim that would seem to be a legitimate reason to ask. www.direct.gov.uk/en/Motoring/OwningAVehicle/AdviceOnKeepingYourVehicle/DG_4022067
Q I live in an area in which the title deeds for all the properties are the same, and don't allow owners to park caravans in or around their driveways. One of my neighbours has taken to parking three caravans outside their house, which are an eyesore and often an obstruction. Are the deeds worth the paper they are written on or can my neighbour ignore them and me?
A The title provisions are known in law as real burdens. As such, you have what is called a benefited property, and are entitled to enforce those conditions that give you rights.
The caravan-owning neighbour can be made, if necessary by court order, to keep his property clear of all caravans indefinitely.
Q I am selling my house and the surveyor who did the home report survey seems to have missed a dampness problem which a purchaser has picked up on.
The purchaser insisted on getting a specialist wood treatment report from a company and wants to knock £1500 off the price or he will back out. What can I do?
A If missives have not yet been concluded – ie there is not yet a mutually binding contract, then the buyer has you to ransom.
You can refuse to reduce the price but he can walk away.
However, it sounds to me as if your home report surveyor has been negligent, and may be liable to you for losses sustained as a result. If missives are concluded, the sale is binding on both parties in its present form you have no requirement to renegotiate the deal with the buyer.