Neighbour Disputes

Our Neighbour Dispute Solicitors and lawyers are experienced in all aspects of disputes between neighbours, which are extremely distressing for those involved. Such disputes often relate to noisy neighbours or issues regarding boundaries, tree root problems, party walls, general construction work issues or parking.

These types of neighbour disputes can often rapidly mushroom into a situation where, once court action is commenced, the parties will often refuse to back down, and legal costs, often partly or fully irrecoverable, can far outweigh the value of any rights lost or damaged. Consequently, it is important to use all efforts to resolve any dispute by careful and skillful negotiation, possibly using Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR),whilst at the same time being firm and clear on any legal breaches.

We have an expert and experienced team of neighbour dispute solicitors and lawyers who can assist you in a cost effective and sensitive manner to resolve any dispute as early as possible. Contact us today to find out how we can help either by telephone or by completing our neighbour disputes contact form.

We advise on a wide variety of property law and neighbour disputes including:

• Boundary disputes
• Party Wall disputes
• Noisy neighbours
• Building dispute law 
• Rights of Way
• Neighbours’ trees and tree root problems
• Restrictive Covenants
• Nuisance and harassment
• Neighbour fence disputes
• Access to neighbouring land
• General anti-social behaviour

What steps should I take if I have fallen out with a neighbour ?

First and foremost, try to solve the problem amicably, but record everything in writing and maintain a detailed diary of all incidents, as this may need to be produced to court at some stage.

How do I know the position on boundaries?

The most important documents to evidence boundaries will generally be your Land Registry title which can be obtained at low cost from the Land Registry. The boundaries and scale of the Land Registry plans are not always that helpful, so you may also need to check your paperwork from your solicitor  (and possibly an entire copy of your purchase file from him/her/them) to ascertain if there are any historical deeds. Your lender may also have a copy of relevant documents.

What is the Party Wall Act?

The Party Wall Act sets out clear procedures such that any works carried out to a shared wall or floor or excavating under the boundary must be dealt with in a certain way, and appropriate notices need to be served. The Act provides for both parties to appoint surveyors or a single agreed surveyor, who will act impartially. The surveyor will draw up an award, detailing the work to be done. The condition of buildings will be recorded, together with timetables for access and work.

My neighbour is being persistently noisy and/or abusive and threatening

The police or Local Authority may intervene if the threats and abuse are serious, or amount to harassment or if there is persistent and serious noise nuisance.