Earlier this month the Government updated its section on resolving neighbour disputes when it comes to property boundaries in a bid to assist with problems before they escalate out of control.
Discussing trees, high hedges and party walls, the advice is to go to the local council if a hedge is affecting enjoyment of a home or garden because it is too tall, which means over 2 metres high, and mostly or semi-evergreen.
Where roots or branches cross from a neighbour’s garden into the adjoining property, then they may be trimmed but only that, as if the tree or hedge is damaged or killed, the tables may be turned and the original complainant may find themselves in court for the damage.
As far as disputes between shared boundaries or party walls are concerned, the Government advises that neighbours consult a solicitor, such as a member of our team, as it can be difficult to establish exactly where a boundary is.
One thing the website does highlight though is that if an individual is going to do any work on a shared party wall, then they must give written notice to their neighbour at least two months in advance and, if there is more than one owner of the neighbouring property or more than one adjoining tenant, then everyone, including the owner of the property, if they does not live there, must be notified.
Before beginning the work, the neighbour(s) must have agreed to it being done in writing, otherwise the matter might end up in dispute, which could cost a lot of money to put right. Ideally, ask the advice of a solicitor if considering doing any work on a party wall.