Neighbour’s AC Unit and Satellite Dish Bolted to My Chimney – What Are My Rights?

Ever looked up at your roofline and noticed something strange—like an air conditioning unit or satellite dish that definitely wasn’t there before? It’s more common than you’d think for neighbours (or their contractors) to bolt equipment right onto someone else’s property. But when that “someone else” is you—and your chimney is now sprouting hardware—you’re left wondering: What are my legal rights?

Can a Neighbour Legally Attach Equipment to Your Chimney?

Let’s get straight to the point. In the UK, if a neighbour bolts an air conditioning condenser or a satellite dish directly onto *your* chimney without asking first—or getting written permission—they’re stepping over the line. Your chimney is part of your private property. Unless it sits on a true “party wall” that you both share (which isn’t the case in most mews houses), nobody can legally use it as their own DIY mounting space.

This rule holds even if the neighbour technically owns the next-door property but doesn’t live there. Ownership doesn’t give them any extra rights over *your* structure. So yes—you’re absolutely right in thinking they need consent before fixing anything onto your chimney.

First Steps: How Should You Respond?

Dealing with an absent landlord (especially one based overseas) can be tricky. When communication is slow or non-existent, it feels tempting to just rip out the offending hardware yourself. But acting too quickly could land *you* in trouble—so here’s a step-by-step approach:

• Gather evidence – Take clear photos of the installations from multiple angles. Note any visible damage or leaks caused by the bolts.
• Confirm ownership – Double-check that the chimney is wholly within your boundary (sounds like you’ve done this already with a sweep).
• Write a formal letter – Send it both to the London address and the Delaware LLC’s registered agent. Explain that you did not give permission and are requesting removal within a reasonable timeframe (60 days is fair).
• Keep records – Save copies of all letters and emails sent/received.
• If no response – After your deadline passes without action, consult a solicitor experienced in property law or party wall disputes before arranging removal yourself.

This process gives them every chance to respond properly while protecting your own legal position.

What Laws Cover This Situation?

A few different legal concepts come into play here:

– **Trespass:** Fixing objects onto someone else’s building without consent is trespass—even if no one physically enters your home.
– **Nuisance:** If the installation causes damage (like water leaks from cracked render), that’s grounds for further action.
– **Party Wall etc. Act 1996:** Only applies if there’s a true party structure—which doesn’t sound like the case for most mews chimneys.

Many local councils also have rules about external units and dishes needing planning consent—so there could be breaches on more than one front.

A Real-Life Example (And What Happened Next)

A friend living in a Victorian terrace once found her neighbour had installed an extractor vent straight through her garden wall while she was away. Like you, she started with a letter backed up by photos. The neighbour ignored her first request but changed his tune after she mentioned seeking legal advice—and threatened removal at his expense if he didn’t act. Within two weeks, not only was the vent gone but he agreed to pay for repairs as well.

It goes to show: A clear paper trail (and gentle escalation) works wonders—even when dealing with absentee landlords.

Your Next Moves—and When To Get Help

If you’ve sent notice and nothing happens after 60 days:

– Speak with a solicitor who deals in boundary or party wall issues.
– Consider mediation if direct contact fails.
– As a last resort, hire contractors for removal and pursue reimbursement through small claims court.

Remember—it’s always better to follow procedure than take drastic action yourself right away.

Quick Checklist Before You Act

• Is the chimney fully within your boundary?
• Do you have photo evidence—including any damage?
• Have you kept written records of all communications?
• Are you prepared to escalate via official channels if needed?

Neighbours might not always be easy to track down—but when it comes to someone bolting things onto *your* home without asking first? The law is definitely on your side.

So—have you ever dealt with unwanted installations on your property? How did you handle it? Share your experience or tips below!