High hedges complaints quick guide

Anyone making a complaint to us must show that:

• the problems with the hedge are related to its height
• it is adversely affecting the reasonable enjoyment of their own property

This could include obstruction of daylight and sunlight, jointly or as separate issues, as well as a potential loss of view or outlook.

In addition, someone could bring a complaint under part 8 of the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003  if the neighbouring high hedge affects their own garden, making it feel claustrophobic.

Impact on growing plants can also be considered, provided that the damage was attributable to the height of the hedge.

Issues that are not relevant

The following factors are not relevant to a high hedge complaint:

• fears that the hedge will break or fall
• that the effect of the hedge have led to health problems
• that other hedges in the area are maintained at a lower height
• that the hedge was there before the affected property was built or before the complainant moved into it
• that the roots of the hedge are affecting neighbouring land or property