Member Article

Clough & Willis reports spike in demand for Property Dispute services

The Litigation team at law firm Clough & Willis has seen a sharp rise in the number of property dispute enquiries it is receiving from clients. The firm has seen 76% rise over the past six months and predicts that demand will remain strong into 2022.

Its research showed the most common cases include boundary disagreements and disputes around building and extension works.

The most frequent boundary disputes include the construction of new fences, walls or buildings in positions that highlight differing views between neighbours as to where a boundary lies. However, the team is also working with a growing number of clients who have been badly advised by surveyors and solicitors during the conveyancing process.

In terms of cases relating to extensions, work on existing party walls or structures, new excavations and neighbours refusing access were all high on the list of complaints.

According to Fiona Gaskell, Partner in the Dispute Resolution team at Clough & Willis, the reasons are numerous.

She said: “We all know the age-old saying that an ‘Englishman’s home is his castle’ but sometimes that phraseology comes into his own when conflicts arise between neighbours. Having arguments with one’s neighbour is never desirable, but we are seeing more and more of it. Since the start of the pandemic, home improvements and building work have reached an all-time high, the housing market is incredibly strong, and increasing numbers of us are working from home. That is a potent mix as each one throws up potential issues and opportunities for disagreement.

Fiona added: “The key is communication from the very start. A lot of people are passionate about their home and property, but that isn’t always advantageous. When you think something might be wrong, my advice is to think carefully, do your research and – most importantly - talk to your neighbour. It’s vital to seek legal advice, but that shouldn’t necessarily be to the detriment of personal relationships as once a dispute is settled, you still have to live next door to each other.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Clough & Willis Solicitors .