In England and Wales everyone has a legal right to a certain amount of natural light, which is protected under common law by the Prescription Act 1832. This makes sure that any building work that obstructs the natural light coming into your Surrey property can be investigated by the authorities and should work be carried out against your wishes you are fully entitled to take legal action to remove the obstruction or receive compensation.
The potential to obstruct natural light to your property with building work is significant, from home extensions, new sheds, conservatories, garages or a completely new residential or commercial development. Without considering your rights to light before work commences if you aren’t happy and are unwilling to waive your rights then changes will need to be made or compensation paid.
Brian Gale Surveyors are experienced in resolving disputes of this nature across Surrey and the south east. Our expert advisers will ensure you can successfully negotiate the most appropriate course of action suitable for your circumstances, so that you are fully compensated for any loss of light or the building work in question is changed so that you won’t be affected. Most commonly we preside over cases where both financial compensation is awarded and building work is changed so you get the most satisfactory result.
Should you have any concerns over your rights to light, whether at home or in your business premises, anywhere across Surrey, get in touch with Brian Gale today. Simply enter your details in the forms on this page or give us a call on 01737 245947 and we can talk you through your rights and analyse exactly how work will or does affect you before taking the necessary steps to resolve a dispute.
