Damage dealt to property during neighbour's flat conversion

Q: My neighbour owns a property and is converting it into two flats. Planning permission has been obtained. Right next to the wall on my side, my neighbour has been digging to put a pipe in. There were original stones and railings there which match the gate but these have all been buckled. I have suffered property damage as a result of this and cannot close the front gate. My neighbour says that he has public liability insurance but will not allow me to obtain the details, and the council can only check the building registration details. What can I do about this situation?

A: You must write to your next door neighbour stating that you have been made aware that the work has not been completed as is required. State that this has not been clarified but you shall be making enquiries. Also add that, regardless of the maintenance of the wall, you can argue that your neighbour has been negligent in building or his builders have been, and that he should be responsible for the costs of repair. This is both a health and safety issue with the wall and a property protection issue with the gate. Wait for a response from your neighbour before taking any further action.