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Prolonged invasive and untidy renovation next doir

(5 Posts)
Allsorts Mon 24-Aug-26 07:18:12

I will undoubtedly have the most selfish neighbours that haven't moved in. Every fence panel broken and my drive ruined. Everyone complains and yet nothing can be done, it's a civil matter and council don't even have a department dealing with such things. It's so depressing this mess day after day for years. I can't sell until it looks better.

Sarnia Mon 24-Aug-26 08:15:45

My cousin (90 at the time) had a similar issue when the house next door was sold and the new owners had a huge extension built before they moved in.
There seems little help in a case like yours, especially as you say your council cannot help. However, there are a few things you could try.
Were you notified about next door's plans before any work started? If the work is substantial then surely the new neighbours must have applied for planning permission. I would contact your county council to enquire about that. There is such a thing as the Party Wall Act which covers damage to property and boundaries. I would do some research into that and see if that could help. In my area some solicitors offer a free 30 minute chat. Perhaps you could see if that's available where you live, failing that a Citizen's Advice Bureau will have some good advice.
The bottom line is that your fence and drive will have to be repaired or replaced. Don't be footing the bill for that yourself. Take photos and document evidence.
I can never understand why new neighbours behave like this. It hardly bodes well for good relations. Good luck and don't give in!!!

J52 Mon 24-Aug-26 08:31:59

Do you have legal representation with your house insurance? Although this is about your home, legal advice attached to home insurance doesn’t have to be anything to do with the house and is free.
We used it when we were mucked about by a holiday house owner. One official letter sorted the problem.

Susie42 Mon 24-Aug-26 11:02:28

I always make sure that legal assistance is included on my car and house insurance. I found it very helpful when someone rear ended ny car.

butterandjam Mon 24-Aug-26 11:36:02

Allsorts

I will undoubtedly have the most selfish neighbours that haven't moved in. Every fence panel broken and my drive ruined. Everyone complains and yet nothing can be done, it's a civil matter and council don't even have a department dealing with such things. It's so depressing this mess day after day for years. I can't sell until it looks better.

Take it up with your house insurance company; that's what you pay them for.