As soaring temperatures drive more people into their gardens this week, homeowners frustrated by a neighbour’s overgrown hedge may be surprised to learn they could have legal options available. The issue has come into sharper focus as Britain braces for an intense spell of hot weather. Forecasters have warned temperatures could climb beyond 37C this week, with some areas of England and Wales potentially reaching between 38C and 40C. The UK Health Security Agency has also issued a rare red heat-health alert for several regions, warning of risks to life and widespread impacts on services and infrastructure.

With many households expected to spend more time outdoors and look for ways to enjoy cooler garden spaces, questions have been raised about what can be done if a neighbour’s hedge is blocking sunlight. Employment lawyer Daniel Barnett highlighted that homeowners may be able to seek help under legislation designed to tackle excessively tall hedges.

Posting on his YouTube channel, he explained: “What are your rights if your neighbour’s hedge is blocking light in your garden? Well, the Anti-social Behaviour Act 2003 bans some excessively tall hedges?”

According to the lawyer, there are four key conditions that must be met before action can be taken.

He said: “There are four boxes to tick. First, the hedge must be a barrier to light or access. Second, the hedge must be formed wholly or predominantly by a line of two or more evergreens, including trees, shrubs, and semi-evergreens. Third, it must be over two metres above ground level. Fourth, and finally, it must adversely affect your reasonable enjoyment of your home or garden because of its height.”

If all four requirements are satisfied, residents may be able to involve their local council.

He said: “If your hedge meets this test, you can apply to your council to issue your neighbour with a remedial notice requiring them to trim the hedge.”

The advice comes as health officials urge people to take precautions during the exceptional heat.

Dr Agostinho Sousa, head of extreme events and health protection at the UK Health Security Agency, said: “Very hot weather is forecast across large parts of England in the coming days and we are urging health and social care services across the country to ensure they are prepared.

“It is vitally important that people understand the risk posed by high temperatures like these, and take steps to keep themselves and their friends, families and neighbours safe.

“Simple actions like staying hydrated, avoiding the sun during the hottest part of the day, and keeping your home cool can make a big difference.

“It’s also important to look out for others, especially elderly relatives, neighbours, and those with underlying health conditions, to make sure they are aware of the forecast and following the necessary advice.”

While disputes over hedges can often be resolved through discussion between neighbours, homeowners affected by a particularly tall evergreen boundary may have a formal route to pursue if the obstruction significantly impacts their enjoyment of their property.