What to do when a neighbour's tree blocks your sunlight - your legal rights explained
As temperatures soar, Brits are spending more time in their gardens - but many are discovering a neighbour's tree is blocking the sunlight
If a neighbour's tree is blocking light towards your house, your options might be limited but you're not without them
(Image: Andrew Merry via Getty Images)
As the UK basks in a particularly warm summer, many Brits are spending more time in their gardens, soaking up the sun. Met weather maps predict there is a chance of the weather turning either wet and windy or settled and warm as Hurricane Erin moves towards the UK.
However, some may find their enjoyment marred by a neighbour's tree blocking their sunlight. Legal experts have now clarified what can be done in such situations. Meanwhile, if you don't fancy staying just in your garden, there are several activities you can do in Wales this summer.
For those finding themselves looking scornfully at the neighbour's tree this summer, Spire Solicitors, an East Anglia-based law firm has said your options might be more limited than you think. Love dreamy Welsh homes? Sign up to our newsletter here
However, they also noted that there were certain actions that could be taken, depending on various factors.
The legal team explained that under current UK law, there was no general right to light in a garden.
This means you don't automatically have the legal right to demand that a tree be cut back or removed if it's casting a shadow over your garden.
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However, under the Prescription Act 1832, you do have a right to light in windows and rooms in your home.
This means you can take action if light has entered a window uninterrupted for 20 years or more until now, the right has not been waived or altered by agreement, or the light obstruction significantly interferes with the room's use, reports the Express.
If you find yourself in any of the situations mentioned above, it's usually necessary to seek professional assessment and legal advice.
If problems arise, the best initial approach is to have a peaceful conversation with your neighbour.
Should your neighbour's tree branches extend over the boundary into your property, you are legally entitled to trim them back up to the boundary line.
However, while doing so, you must remain on your own property as you do not have the legal right to enter their land to perform this task.
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If the issue is with a neighbour's hedges blocking light, you may be able to lodge a complaint.
This could be the case if the hedge has grown taller than two metres, if it has encroached onto your property, or if it consists of two or more evergreen or semi-evergreen trees or shrubs.
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