What to do about unwanted lighting in your building?

Questioner

An unknown person has mounted bright LED spotlights on the front of my building - my property. Someone even climbed onto my balcony to place two spotlights there. My downstairs neighbor - a restaurant - denies any involvement. My other neighbor - a hostel - refers to an alliance of shopkeepers in the street where I live. All this happened without my permission and when I was not home. The spotlights light up the entire building. What can I do? I cannot just remove them. I might be accused of vandalism. What are my options?

Lawyer

It is very good that you have tried to get in touch with the person responsible. Because without permission this is of course not permitted. But if no one can be held accountable for placing spotlights on your property, then unfortunately you will not be able to reach an agreement by consultation. The law is very clear about this: the spotlights have become part of your building by being attached and therefore your property. It is up to you to choose: leave them hanging or remove them. If someone later complains that you have destroyed their property, then that is unjustified because the ownership of the spotlights has been transferred to you as the owner of the building.

Questioner

Clear answer. Thank you. The alliance of shopkeepers in my street has a project manager. I will try to approach him. If this does not work, I will remove the spotlights. Difficult, because it requires a long ladder. Actually somewhat surreal that a person or organization can attach bright spotlights to the property of a third party.

Lawyer

If you find the culprit, you can urge them to remove and repair your facade. This should not be your problem, of course. Good luck!