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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Business
Levi Winchester

Money Talk: ‘My neighbour keeps parking on my driveway - are they allowed to do this?’

Parking disagreements are a common cause of conflict between neighbours.

In fact, around 62% of Brits are thought to have fallen out with next door over where they leave their car on at least one occasion.

So, what do you do if your neighbour is a nightmare when it comes to parking, especially if they've taken a liking to your driveway?

We speak to the experts for the latest in our Money Talk series.

If you've got a money dilemma that you don't know how to handle, or a financial query that you'd like an opinion on, email us at: mirror.money.saving@mirror.co.uk

'My neighbour keeps parking on my driveway'

When it comes to any type of neighbour dispute, you should first approach them in a calm and friendly manner to try and resolve the situation.

This can be tricky if you don't know your neighbours. If you're worried about approaching them in person, you could consider writing a letter instead.

If someone is parked on your driveway and this land is part of your property - so it is included in your deeds - then the neighbour is technically trespassing if they park over it.

There is no criminal law preventing someone from parking on your driveway, so this would be a civil offence.

"You can pursue a civil case for trespassing, but this can be a long and potentially expensive option," said Dan Powell, Senior Editor at online retailer and motoring consumer advocacy website, Desperate Seller.

"In general, it’s always best to try and resolve issues like this with your neighbours first.

"If they’re blocking access to your driveway or causing an obstruction, then you can speak to them about moving their car.

"The police have no power to make arrests.

"If the vehicle is untaxed, unroadworthy, missing number plates, this can be reported to your local council which has a duty to remove abandoned vehicles."

Your local council should also be able to act if you suspect the car has been abandoned.

You shouldn't try to remove the vehicle yourself. If the car gets damaged, you could be liable to pay for damages.

If you were to pursue a civil case for trespassing, the courts have the jurisdiction to remove the car from the driveway for you.

Another option is to pursue a legal claim for nuisance behaviour on the grounds that the driver is interfering with your property.

There are steps you can take to stop people from parking on your drive, such as putting up a fence, gate or bollards.

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