Rights of Light, Daylight & Sunlight Assessments

Our Services​​​

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• Pre-Planning Advice: Early-stage reviews to identify if a proposed development may affect neighbouring light levels or be at risk of objections or legal action.

• Technical Analysis: Detailed assessments in accordance with BRE Guidelines (Site Layout Planning for Daylight and Sunlight) and legal tests under the common law of Rights of Light.

• Objection Support: Assisting neighbours or affected parties in assessing the impact of nearby developments on their light and advising on possible courses of action.

• Design Advice & Mitigation: Advising architects and developers on how to mitigate potential impacts on light and reduce the risk of planning refusals or legal disputes.

• Legal Compliance & Reports: Preparing formal reports for use in planning submissions, rights of light risk assessments, and court proceedings where required.

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Why Are Daylight, Sunlight & Rights of Light Important?

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​While often grouped together, these are distinct:

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• Daylight & Sunlight are planning considerations assessed using BRE guidance. Local authorities use them to evaluate the impact of new developments on neighbours.

• Rights of Light is a private legal matter, independent of the planning system. A neighbour may have a legal right to receive sufficient natural light through established windows, and a new development that infringes this may be subject to injunction or compensation.

• Failure to consider these issues early can lead to costly design changes, objections, or legal claims.

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When Should You Instruct a Rights of Light or Daylight/Sunlight Survey?​

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• At pre-application or concept stage for a proposed development

• When submitting or defending a planning application

• When objecting to a neighbouring development

• When considering the purchase of a site in a dense urban area

• When legal action is being threatened or underway.

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Why Choose Stephen Hawes & Co.?​​

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• Impartial Advice – We act for both developers and neighbours, ensuring fair and balanced input.

• Expertise in Light Analysis – Using current BRE and legal methodologies.

• Collaborative Approach – Working with architects, planners, and legal teams.

• Professional Reports – Clear, accurate and suitable for planning, negotiation, or legal proceedings.

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If you're involved in a project where light impacts may arise, contact Stephen Hawes & Co. for reliable assessments and expert advice to help you move forward with confidence.