Rights to Light

What Are Rights to Light?

Rights to Light are a form of easement in English law that give a property owner the legal right to receive natural light through defined openings, typically windows.

If a new development significantly reduces the amount of light entering a neighbouring property, the affected party may be entitled to an injunction or compensation.

In dense urban areas like London, Birmingham, Manchester and beyond, rights to light can determine the scale, massing, and layout of a proposed development.

Developers and property owners need to address these risks early to avoid costly delays or redesigns.

Why Choose Anstey Horne?

Anstey Horne has the largest and most experienced team of specialist surveyors in the UK, with over 230 years of history behind us. We support clients nationwide from our offices in:

London
Birmingham
Manchester
Bristol
Brighton
Norwich
Plymouth

We work with developers, architects, planning consultants, adjoining owners, and investors to identify risks, advise on mitigation strategies, and negotiate practical resolutions.

Our Rights to Light Services

1. Rights to Light for Developers

We help developers at every stage of the planning and design process—from site acquisition through to detailed analysis and neighbour negotiations. Our goal is to maximise the development potential of your site while reducing legal and financial risks.

Our services for developers include:

Preliminary site reviews and massing advice
Technical Rights to Light assessments and calculations
3D modelling using the latest laser scan and CAD technology
Cutback analysis and design optimisation
Risk appraisals for funders and insurers
Settlement negotiations and compensation valuations

We combine technical rigour with commercial pragmatism to unlock value and deliver certainty to schemes that might otherwise stall.

2. Rights to Light for Adjoining Owners

If your property is affected by a neighbouring development, we can advise on your legal position and ensure your rights are respected. Our expert surveyors will:

Assess the impact of proposed developments on natural light levels
Provide clear reports to support legal advice or negotiations
Recommend alterations or mitigation to proposed schemes
Represent you in settlement negotiations to secure appropriate compensation or design changes

We act independently and with discretion, providing the confidence you need when dealing with developers or planning consultants.

3. Rights to Light Risk Management

We also advise landowners and property managers on long-term risk strategy. This includes:

Preparing Light Obstruction Notices (LONs) to prevent neighbouring buildings from acquiring Rights to Light by prescription
Reviewing property portfolios to identify and manage existing exposures
Supporting future development plans with proactive strategic advice

By addressing potential issues early, you can avoid disputes, protect asset value, and maintain development flexibility.

Why Rights to Light Matter More Than Ever

With increasing pressure on urban development and higher-density schemes, Rights to Light is becoming a critical planning constraint. Courts have shown a willingness to grant injunctions, even against substantial developments, making early assessment essential.

Anstey Horne’s team combines legal awareness, technical insight, and commercial understanding to guide you through complex Rights to Light challenges.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is a Right to Light?

It’s a legal right to receive natural light through a defined window or aperture. If development blocks this light, the affected party may be entitled to compensation or an injunction.

Can Rights to Light stop a development?

Yes. If a neighbour's right is infringed and no agreement is reached, courts can halt or modify schemes—even if planning permission has been granted.

Can I prevent neighbours acquiring Rights to Light?

Yes. A Light Obstruction Notice can be served to prevent neighbours acquiring rights through long-term use.

How do you assess whether a development infringes a neighbours rights?

We use 3D modelling, laser scanning and Waldram analysis to measure and calculate the level of light loss.

Contact the UK’s Leading Rights to Light Surveyors

With a reputation built on trust, expertise, and results, Anstey Horne provides clear, strategic advice across the UK. Contact our team to discuss your project and protect your position today.

Get Expert Advice

Whether you’re a developer seeking to optimise your site or a property owner protecting your light, we’re here to help.

Local Surveyor Network

We provide advice on projects all around the UK. To contact a specialist surveyor near you, see details of our teams in :

For more information on how a right is acquired, measured and defended, please see our Fact Sheet, and for a collection of articles on all aspect of this service see our blog.