Can a neighbour access your land without your permission?

The Access to Neighbouring Land Act 1992 gives neighbours the right to enter your property in certain circumstances to carry out essential preservation work, including those that require scaffolding.

One 9 Scaffolding, a commercial scaffolding company, is urging homeowners to be aware of their legal obligations and to communicate clearly with neighbours if such a situation arises.

John Khan, a home maintenance expert at One 9 Scaffolding, said: “Nobody wants to hear that their neighbour needs to use their garden for building work, especially when it could mean scaffolding, builders and equipment turning up next door.

“But it’s worth knowing that simply saying no isn’t always the end of the story.

“There are some situations where the law can allow access for essential repairs, although that doesn’t mean your neighbour can just walk into your garden whenever they like.

“If scaffolding is needed, the best thing to do is talk through what’s needed, where it’ll go and how long it’ll be there.

“Getting everything clear from the start can save a lot of awkwardness and help stop a small job turning into a neighbourly dispute.”

The company recommends several steps for homeowners if a neighbour requests access to their garden.

These include asking why access is needed, how long the work will take, and exactly where scaffolding will be placed.

It also advises discussing how any garden features—such as lawns, plants, fences, or patios—will be protected throughout the project.

One 9 Scaffolding suggests keeping a written record of anything agreed, even if relations with the neighbour are friendly, to avoid potential disputes later.

The main message is not to refuse access outright without understanding the legal context, as there are circumstances where entry can be granted by law.

However, communication remains key to preventing misunderstandings and ensuring that both parties are clear about what will happen and for how long.

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The company warns that failing to reach an agreement early on can turn a simple repair job into a source of ongoing tension.

By approaching the situation calmly and constructively, homeowners and neighbours can reach solutions that work for both sides.

Did you know about this law? Let us know in the comments.