I'm dealing with a tricky situation where my neighbor has dug a trench to reroute water runoff from a slope, directing it towards my property near my house's foundation. This has already caused damage to his own foundation, which he acknowledged. I'm in British Columbia, Canada, and I'm wondering what legal options I have in this situation.
2 Answers
I totally get why you’d be concerned! Usually, property owners have a responsibility to ensure water runoff doesn’t negatively impact neighboring properties. It might be worthwhile to have a conversation with him first, but if he doesn’t cooperate, seeking legal advice is probably the best next step. You could also check if there are specific bylaws in BC regarding drainage issues to strengthen your case.
It sounds like a frustrating situation! If his trench is causing problems for your property, you might want to start by documenting the damage. Take photos and note when it started happening. Consulting with a local lawyer who specializes in property disputes could give you a clearer idea of your rights and options. You may also want to reach out to your local government about drainage regulations, as they might have guidelines that he’s not following.