Neighbour and boundary disputes are among the most common and frustrating issues for home and landowners. When living super close to one another, it’s no surprise that neighbour disputes can get heated pretty quickly. You don’t always see eye-to-eye with your neighbours, but in most cases having a simple peaceful conversation is the most suitable way to solve the problem. However, if talking does not work in your case then neighbour dispute legal assistance can resolve the issue.
Common Types of Neighbour Disputes
House extensions
Extensions of any type can result in neighbour disputes, such as during the construction of extensions where they block or narrow shared accessways. Or trespass into a neighbour’s garden.
Moreover, in most cases the size and shape of the extension can deviate from the actual granted plans, resulting in loss of light and enjoyment of the surroundings.
Trees
Sometimes while landscaping, the trees and flora either get moved or removed permanently. If you accidentally or by will remove a neighbour’s tree, you will then be liable to replace the tree with one of equal age and size. This may sound easy but can cost you around thousands of pounds in some cases, overall if the tree is something like a centuries old English oak.
However, if you have a tree and it happens to fall over a boundary and causes serious to little damage, you may find yourself with a boundary dispute at your end.
Fencing
Rotting fences are the leading cause of neighbour disputes. When you purchase a house with a garden then you will be responsible for the fences along the boundary lines. If somehow, they get damaged, it’s your responsibility to fix them and if you refuse then you may find yourself in a dispute.
Impact of Neighbour Dispute
Disagreements and never-ending debates between neighbours, no matter big or small, can cause lasting damage to your relationships in the long run. Which is why it is always suggested to raise your concerns with one another and find suitable solutions as soon as possible.
If for some reason you are unable to resolve the disputes with your neighbour then it can effectively wear you down and can also have an impact on your quality of life. You may start to feel threatened, scared and even isolated in your own community. If this is the case, then it’s best to consult with neighbour dispute lawyers or neighbour dispute solicitors.
How can Housing Solicitors Help?
If you are living in the UK, then neighbour dispute solicitors can assist you in resolving property and fence disagreements through legal advice, negotiation, and your representation in the court if necessary. Neighbour dispute solicitors aim for a quick and satisfactory outcome. Let’s explore in depth how they can assist:
1- Assessment and Advice
Assessing the situation
Your case will be thoroughly reviewed. Solicitors will gather evidence and will advise you on your legal rights and options.
Pointing legal issues
The solicitors will let you know if there are any breaches of laws, agreements, or regulations in your disputes.
Legal process
Solicitors will explain to you the potential legal avenues such as mediation, negotiation and litigation.
2- Negotiation and Communication
Negotiation
In dispute cases, solicitors act as a third party carrying on communication with your neighbour and attempting to find a mutual solution.
Formal letters
Solicitors draft and send formal letters on your behalf and send them to your neighbour, highlighting your concerns and potential legal consequences.
Mediation
Let’s suppose your negotiation fails, they can assist in setting up in mediation, where a neutral third party helps finding a resolution.
3- Legal Action
Court preparation
If both mediation and negotiation fail, solicitors can then prepare your case for court by gathering evidence and grounding a strong legal position.
Representation in Court
Solicitors will argue your case and will present evidence to the judge on your behalf.
Legal remedies
Solicitors will pursue legal remedies such as civil injunction against neighbour; it is a court order that limits them from a certain action. This order is usually there to address nuisance and harassment and can be applied for by various authorities, including the local authorities and the police.
Looking for legal help?
Farani Taylor Solicitors know how stressful and costly neighbour disputes can be, which is why our housing law solicitors are here to help you with every step and are committed to provide you with the most suitable advise and options.
To arrange your consultation with one of our solicitors, simply call us on 0207 242 1666 or visit our website for more information.