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Loss of privacy after a new summerhouse was built next door

John Conlin / 20 February 2018

A reader feels they have lost their privacy after their neighbours built a large summerhouse with a veranda looking right into their kitchen and conservatory.

Looking through blinds
A reader feels they have lost their privacy after their neighbours built a large summerhouse

Question

My neighbour has built a very large summerhouse in the back garden. It has a veranda on which they stand and look directly into my kitchen and conservatory.

I now have no privacy in my house or garden. I want to know whether I can sue them for my lack of privacy.

Answer

A You cannot sue, but loss of privacy is a reason to object to a planning proposal. If the summerhouse is of such a size that planning permission should have been obtained, you could apply to the council for enforcement action.

This could result in bad relations with your neighbours and might not solve the problem either. You might consider putting ‘privacy trellis’ along your boundary. It obscures clear vision while allowing sunlight through.

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The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not held by Saga unless specifically stated. The material is for general information only and does not constitute investment, tax, legal, medical or other form of advice. You should not rely on this information to make (or refrain from making) any decisions. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.