Advice on neighbours building boundary structure on new build estate

[Goldielocks2p22]

Looking for some advice as I honestly don’t know where to start with this situation.
I live on a new build estate which has TP1 / estate rules around what you can build and height restrictions etc. We recently got new neighbours and unfortunately there’s already been issues. We actually caught them on CCTV trying to get into our property and they denied it until the police viewed the footage.
They’re now building some sort of large roofed structure right on the boundary line between our gardens. It looks like an outdoor bar / seating area and from what I can tell it seems higher than the 2.5m limit usually allowed near a boundary.
The problem is it’s difficult to measure it without causing more issues. There’s been workmen constantly on the shared path and standing on top of the structure looking directly into our garden which already feels uncomfortable given previous events.
It’s also already causing rainwater to run into our garden, blocking sunlight and it’s not even finished yet. I’m genuinely worried it could affect the value and enjoyment of our property.
Has anyone dealt with something similar on a new build estate?

• Can the management company/developer enforce TP1 restrictions?
• Is there a way to check if planning permission is needed?
• How would you go about documenting the height/water runoff issues without escalating things further?

Any advice would really be appreciated.

We’re in exactly the same situation. Next door have built a garden room close to our boundary, which they will use as a games room/bar. It’s probably about 2.5 metres and very visible from upstairs. We already have trellis on top of the fence and we’ve bought trees that I hope will screen it. What they won’t do, of course, is to have much effect on the noise that will undoubtedly occur when they have their get togethers.

We live in a small cul de sac and I’m really annoyed. We haven’t fallen out with them (yet) but we will if they have noisy gatherings.

If you are in England, the rules for outbuildings not requiring PP are in this link:
Planning Permission - Outbuildings - Planning Portal If the structure doesn't meet requirements, then PP would be required.

However, as a new build estate, it is possible that permitted development rights have been removed, meaning outbuildings may require PP.

The easiest way is to report it to the Planning Department Enforcement team at your local Council, who will come and have a look.

@Buscobel mines a very small estate of 21 houses so very much cul de sac vibes. My garden has been landscaped since I moved in so I can put trees along the boundary line. I could maybe take my flowers out of my flower beds and replace with trees but I don’t know if they’ll grow as the structure is blocking all sun 😩

It’s a nightmare isn’t it, I don’t have a good relationship with them anyway due to them breaking into my garden possibly my house.

@Seeline see I’m in the UK!

I think our estate does block it only thing is other have put up sheds etc and nobody has said anything as they’re all barely over the fence. I’m going to get my partner to measure it and submit to the council as it over 2.5 metres as my neighbour said our fences are actually 2.4 metres

@Buscobel You say you are really annoyed but if it is a permitted height structure why ? Do you think they should not have built it because it might annoy you . And noisy gatherings are also allowed unless after reasonable hours of course. Do you think it will be a huge problem for you and what do you think you will be able to do about it . Just asking as my neighbours have this also but it doesn't bother me.

The roof of whatever it is shouldn't be causing rain water to come on to your property. I think I'm right in saying it must be contained within their boundary. I think I'd be seeking a look and measure once workmen have gone. Or be brazen about it and get a step ladder and have a good look

It is unlikely that a newbuild has any permitted development rights so yes pp might be required. You can report to council planning enforcement.

@Nofeckingway I think I can be annoyed about a vast wooden structure that abuts my fence and is taller than the fence, plus a lattice fence above it. Of course they can have parties and get togethers, but they’ve already said that they will be frequent and loud. I don’t think it’s unreasonable to want quiet enjoyment of my own house and garden.

I know that he ordered the wrong size of building, because he told us that, so I assume it’s larger than he originally intended. I shall look at planning regulations, but I have no wish to be on bad terms.

@Buscobel But kindly nobody cares if you are annoyed . If the structure is permitted well , too bad . However if it is not appropriate size then you have a legitimate complaint. Unfortunately you can't guarantee quiet gardens living in an urban environment. And other people do not have to accommodate you . Should your neighbours not use their property, not make any noise because you don't like it ? Again only if normal noise in normal hours . Maybe you might join in the party 🎉? Or move to an isolated location .
Don't let it stress you , it's out of your control .