A resident has been left furious after their neighbours erected a taller fence opposite their living room windows while they were on holiday, blocking a significant amount of light from their home. The resident expressed anger but is cautious about starting a feud with the neighbours, who have lived in the street for over 20 years.
The neighbours have a history of what the resident describes as "niggly disputes," including complaints about bins not being taken in quickly enough and a false accusation regarding the cutting of a shrub. The wife once called the resident "the queen of passive aggressiveness," a remark the resident still does not understand.
According to the resident, the neighbours are unreasonable and have made themselves unpopular among other residents, never being invited to street gatherings. Despite enjoying the location, the fence is affecting their quality of life and causing increasing annoyance.
Advice from Coleen
Advice columnist Coleen advised starting by talking to the neighbours and explaining the impact of the fence on the property. She noted it was unneighbourly not to inform them of the replacement and the increased height. Coleen stressed the importance of avoiding a feud, as it could escalate and compound misery unless the resident plans to move.
If talking fails, Coleen recommended contacting the local council, as there are guidelines on the height of fences and hedges opposite windows. A council official might assess the situation or accept a complaint. Coleen added, "Trust me, if you'd put the fence up, your neighbours would be first in line to lodge a complaint!"
Coleen urged the resident to remain calm and reasonable in interactions, acknowledging the difficulty when a home feels threatened. She advised not to sink to the neighbours' level of pettiness or provide them with ammunition for future disputes.
