A homeowner has shared their frustration after discovering their neighbour using their outside tap to fill a swimming pool without permission. The incident, which occurred minutes after the homeowner left the house, was captured on camera and has since sparked a heated debate online.
Caught on Camera
Posting on Reddit, the homeowner explained that they had left home for a short period and returned to find their neighbour in the back yard, hose attached to the outside tap, filling a pool. The neighbour used the water for about 30 minutes without asking. When confronted, the neighbour initially denied the act, then changed their story and offered a weak apology.
The homeowner wrote: “Honestly, I couldn’t believe someone would think that was okay.” In response, they took what they described as “extreme measures” by padlocking the outside tap, acknowledging that it was an inconvenience for themselves as well.
Online Reactions
The Reddit post drew numerous comments, with many users condemning the neighbour’s actions. One user joked about using the neighbour’s pool in retaliation, while others advised legal steps. A commenter stated: “This is theft. Call the police and file a police report. They will take it seriously. And I’d demand reimbursement from the neighbour. If he refuses, take him to small claims court. It’s the principle.”
Another user noted that in many jurisdictions, such behaviour constitutes a crime, adding: “Your neighbour stole something of value. They did this so you would pay the water bill for their pool.”
Similar Incident with 22,000 Gallons
One Reddit user shared a similar experience: “My neighbour filled his pool from my faucet. When I got the water bill I called the city and they came out - 22,000 gallons. They asked, ‘Did you fill your pool?’ I don’t have a pool, but my neighbours do. They spoke to them – denials all around – but they took it off my bill and we locked up the faucet on their side of my house.”
The homeowner’s post asked: “Anyone else dealt with neighbours like this? What would you have done?” The discussion highlighted the principle of water theft and the potential legal and financial implications for both parties.
