Neighbour's demolition leaves Leeds homeowner with exposed walls and mounting costs
A Leeds mother says the demolition of her semi-detached neighbour's half left her £217,000 house exposed, causing damp, pests and an unsellable condition.
In May 2021, Shivarna Mitra purchased a semi-detached house in Pudsey, Leeds, for £217,000 and spent roughly £80,000 improving it for her family. When the new owner of the adjoining half, Chris Rhodes, secured planning approval in 2022, he began demolition that left Mitra's side with only a thin brick barrier. The exposed structure allowed water ingress, mould, and infestations of rats, squirrels and wasps, causing health concerns for her son and driving heating costs to about £630 a month.
Leeds City Council issued a stop notice in early 2023, but demolition continued, and the vacant plot remains undeveloped after a rejected mansion proposal. Mitra, battling cancer and a major operation, has filed a legal claim that may take years, while the council advises her to contact her insurer and continue monitoring the site.
Why it matters
The case highlights how unauthorized demolition can devastate a homeowner's safety, finances and ability to sell their property.
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