Disputes with neighbours take many forms, and they can quickly escalate into costly and expensive litigation. So nipping them in the bud will always be first prize, and when it comes to fights over construction activity – whether it be a whole new building or additions/alterations – a good place to start is with municipal approval of building plans. Without such approval, construction cannot as a general rule proceed.
We discuss a recent Constitutional Court decision regarding what factors the municipality (or rather the “decision maker” municipal employee tasked with the job) must take into account when considering building plans. Know and enforce your rights here! It could save you from having to live with a major problem next door.
