My neighbour`s conservatory is built on our boundary wall and has clear glass windows from about 2ft upwards.

Question

This was like this when we bought the house and have put up with it for 7 years. We have no privacy whatsoever. She doesn`t even have any blinds. She has made it clear to us that she wants to sit in the conservatory and look at her wonderful view of the hills but this view is accross our land. Is she allowed to open the top opening windows which open over our land? Are we allowed to put a fence up against her glass? Do we have to allow access onto our land to the window cleaners etc.?

Answer 1

you should have perhaps done something sooner. If you are in the UK and something has been built for 5 years breaking planning regulations, and there have been no complaints, there is nothing you can do!

Answer 2

Check with your local planing department. It appears that it is breaking building regulations.

Answer 3

Have you talked to the zoning people located in you town  If your survey shows that she on you property line, they may make her move it  Good luck Dude.

Answer 4

In theory, the conservatory should have been built inside their boundary so that the windows open over their land. You need to check where the boundary is.  They have no right to a view over your land, so there is nothing to stop you building a fence or wall on your side of the boundary up to 2 metres high.

Answer 5

Well if it is that close to the boundary there is probably a zoning ordinance that was violated, BUT they might not make her do anything, A fence would be a good idea. Good fences make good neighbors.

Answer 6

Your first sentence tells me that you didn't do you your homework before you bought the property. In effect the problems you perceive now were present then. It seems to take a long time for the penny to drop. These issues should have been resolved by 'Enquiries before Contract' which your solicitor should have discussed with you. It may be worthwhile casting an eye over the legal documentation that arose at the time of purchase to see if the neighbour's conservatory features. I would imagine that the building of the conservatory on top of your wall is likely to be permanent as you and presumably the previous owner seem to have acquiesced in it's siting.

Regarding a fence, it is usual for a back garden fence to be limited to six feet high. If it is on your land and causes them a problem with window opening, they will have to keep their windows closed.

Unless your deeds state that access is permitted for maintenance, you may refuse permission.  

Answer 7

Buy a shed, she has no rights over your land at all