boundry dispute and criminal damage

[brassuk]

I recently had a new fence consisting of three panels and four fence posts put at the bottom of my garden. Due to an irregular tree stump the fencing men put the panels a couple of inches into my neighbours property. I and my neighbour (who i had never met before having recently moved in) noticed straight away. I completely understood his concerns and told him i would rectify the situation asap, but would he mind waiting a few weeks as i was away on business as of the following day. I understood this to be an amicable arrangement. I returned to find all of the fence panels and fence posts totally destroyed including some which had nothing to do with it, lots of plants and other garden features had been destroyed and dumped in the middle of my garden.

Is this legal?

Im anxious not to start a nasty situation with a new neighbour, but neither can i accept that he is able to destroy a large amount of my property without writing to me or speaking to my partner to have the fence put back sooner.

What is my next move?

[woofgang]

Are you absolutely sure that your neighbour did it?? I know it seems obvious, but coincidences do occur. If he did, it sounds like this person is not someone to go and have a quiet chat with on your own!! Go and see if your local council or citizens' advice bureau have a mediation service. They will confirm what your and your neighbour's rights are (I doubt that he was within his!) and help you to resolve the situation. Take loads of photos, before you clear anything up. Good Luck!!

[Octavius]

you couold also check out www.gardenlaw.co.uk

for some advice before you go