A woman is taking legal action against her neighbour after a DIY extension blocked six of her windows, leaving her home in constant darkness. The dispute, shared on TikTok, has gone viral, with millions watching the footage.
DIY extension blocks daylight
Katie, who posted videos on TikTok, showed how her neighbours constructed a homemade extension that now sits almost flush against her windows. In one clip, she demonstrates that the window can only be opened a crack, with the frame resting directly above the new brick wall.
The footage, viewed nearly three million times, captures the dramatic loss of light. Katie captioned one video "Goodbye light," and added in the description: "Neighbours blocked up six of our windows ... DIY hell."
Legal concept of 'right to light'
Viewers quickly pointed out that the build could be unlawful under the legal principle known as the "right to light." This English law easement grants property owners the entitlement to receive natural daylight through their windows, provided the window has had uninterrupted light for at least 20 years. Once established, a neighbour cannot legally block it, even with planning permission.
In a follow-up video, Katie revealed she had raised the issue for months, but the neighbours repeatedly said they were "looking into it." Now that the build is complete, she is unsure of her options and has sought advice online.
Potential outcomes and advice
Commenters suggested Katie lodge a formal complaint with her local council, which could investigate and potentially order the extension's removal or impose fines. Others noted that the "right to light" is a common law matter, requiring court action to seek compensation or removal.
One commenter advised: "Right to light is common law, you have to go through court and see if you can win compensation or removal or both." Another suggested: "Lodge an application with the council, they can investigate if there is any fault, and then they will either fine them or make them take it down."
Katie is now considering legal action, with the situation having made her home "hell" to live in.
