Hello!
We have a small sloped lot that we have started excavating for terracing in order to utilize the property in the best way. When we moved in, the neighbor above us quickly slapped up a deck at the property line so they can look down on us. Doesn't feel so great...
Eventually, when we can afford it, we want to put up a small cottage at the top to prevent the neighbor from looking in. We have started excavating the tier as you can see in the picture below. We will also remove the small hill. You can also see the red property markers towards the neighbor.
I would like to get tips on a support against the neighbor above that takes up as little space as possible so it doesn't eat up our little plot, but still provides support.
Are you even allowed to lower the ground level that much without a planning permission? In any case, you are obligated to ensure that no damage occurs to the neighbor's property, so a wall that withstands the ground pressure is required.
Claiming that the neighbor built their terrace solely to "look down on you" is an incredibly childish statement.
What you need to do is ensure that your excavation doesn't cause damage to the neighbor.
A tip is to hire a company if you feel unsure.
Then, I'm curious as to why one would buy a plot/house with neighbors close by if they can't handle seeing them.
As mentioned, a retaining wall is necessary if you want to maximize land area.
Since you are uncomfortable with the neighbor's patio, perhaps you should have a discussion with them about how to reduce the visibility on your property. Maybe they can build a privacy screen? If not, you could plant your thuja hedge or something else that grows tall. If you have children, you can place the trampoline next to the patio, and a privacy screen will probably pop up quickly
Looking at how the neighbor's patio is constructed, the lower line follows the slope of the ground, so the purpose of building high is likely to create a flat surface.
