Our title deeds say that no pillars, posts or fences can be erected beyond the building line, and that the fronts of the properties should be kept mainly as lawn. But our neighbours have put up walls and pillars and dug up their lawn to turn it into a huge driveway. Can we do anything about this, and if we decided to pursue it could we claim the costs off our neighbours?
This type of restrictive covenant is often difficult to enforce. You would have been better off making an objection before your neighbours carried out the alterations. It’s possible, if you live on an estate, that the developer will take action to maintain its appearance, but otherwise you would have to take your case to the County Court. If you won the court could award you costs, but you will need a solicitor’s help.