Practical legal guides for England and Wales

A private right of way can sometimes arise after at least 20 years’ qualifying use, even where nothing appears in the deeds. This guide explains the 20-year rule, permission and objections, evidence and Land Registry registration.

If building work next door causes cracks or other damage to your home, who is responsible? This guide explains evidence, liability, the Party Wall Act, insurance, repairs and compensation.

A neighbour is usually allowed to have a garden bonfire, but persistent or excessive smoke can become a statutory nuisance. This guide explains the law in England and Wales, what evidence to keep and when the council can act.

If a neighbour’s wall, extension or foundations have crossed onto your land, what can you do? This guide explains trespass, removal, damages and the practical options.

Solar panels can sometimes reflect intense sunlight into a neighbouring home. This guide explains when glare may become a legal nuisance, whether planning rules can help and the practical steps you can take.

Restrictive covenants can limit how you build on or use your property, sometimes many decades after they were created. This guide explains who can enforce them, whether old covenants still apply, and how they may be removed or changed.

Japanese knotweed spreading from neighbouring land can become a legal as well as a practical problem. This guide explains when your neighbour may be responsible, who pays for treatment and what to do next.

Has your neighbour raised their garden level? This guide explains when planning permission may be needed, the 30 cm rule, overlooking, drainage, retaining walls and your rights.