Injunction to Halt New Construction: Definition and Purpose

August 28, 2026

The new construction injunction can be crucial when a building project or renovation affects a property and infringes upon your rights. Acting in a timely manner and understanding the legal avenues available can prevent the situation from escalating. In this article, we explain.

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What is a new construction injunction

The new construction injunction is a legal action that allows you to request the suspension of a construction project when its continuation could harm your possession, ownership, or other rights.

Preventive purpose of this action

The objective is to prevent an ongoing construction project from irreversibly alteringan existing situation. It also prevents damage that could be more difficult to rectify.

Current terminology in procedural law

It is formally referred to as a verbal proceeding for the suspension of a new construction, in accordance with Article 250.1.5 of the Civil Procedure Act (LEC). However, new construction injunction is the traditional term and remains in common use.

Difference between protecting possession and disputing ownership

An injunction is not designed to definitively resolve a dispute regarding property ownership. The procedure may be used to provisionally request a suspension.

When is an injunction against new construction appropriate?

For you to file this action, the following circumstances must be met:

Existence of ongoing construction or renovation

There must be work currently in progress, such as construction, expansion, or renovation that alters the existing state.

Actual harm or a concrete threat of damage

It is necessary to explain which right or situation may be harmed, and why the continuation of the work could exacerbate the problem.

Relationship between the work and the disturbance

The claim must identify which part of the work is causing the disturbance and how it affects the plaintiff's property or rights.

Requirement that the work is not completed

The nature of this action requires that the work be capable of being suspended. If the work has already been completed, other legal actions must be considered.

Requirements for requesting the suspension of new construction

The main elements that must be analyzed are:

Active standing

The action may be requested by anyone whose possession, property, or other right is adversely affected by the construction.

Passive standing

The claim must be directed at the person responsible for the construction or the party with the appropriate legal standing to respond.

Identification of the construction and the affected property

It is important to identify the location of the construction, the work being performed, and which property, common element, or right may be affected.

Evidence of the alleged damage or risk

Photographs, videos, plans, technical reports, and other documents can help demonstrate the existence of the construction.

Territorial jurisdiction of the court

Territorial jurisdiction must be analyzed according to the rules of the Civil Procedure Act (LEC) and the nature of the action. Article 52 establishes the court of the location of the property as the standard rule.

Works that may give rise to this action

This scenario may arise in various real estate contexts:

Construction on adjacent plots

When it may affect boundaries, walls, easements, or other rights.

Renovations affecting common elements

In buildings subject to horizontal property regimes.

Works that encroach upon or alter a property

Through expansions or modifications that affect a neighboring property.

Work that compromises stability, light, ventilation, or access

When there is a legally significant impact that must be assessed.

Procedure for an injunction against new construction

The procedure for an injunction against new construction consists of:

1. Preliminary advice and evidence gathering

Before initiating any action, you must document the situationIt also verifies the license, available plans, and the property's registration and cadastral status.

2. Filing the verbal trial lawsuit

The action is processed through verbal trial proceedings, pursuant to Article 250.1.5 of the Civil Procedure Act.

3. Request for immediate suspension

The court may order the suspension of the work even before serving the lawsuit for a response.

4. Hearing, opposition, and evidence presentation

The parties may present their arguments and provide evidence to support their positions.

5. Judicial resolution and potential effects

The resolution may maintain or lift the suspension. As this is a summary proceeding, it does not necessarily resolve property issues on a definitive basis.

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What documentation and evidence are required?

Documentation is crucial for proving the existence of the work and the alleged damages.

Photographs, videos, and prior communications

Dated images and communications held with the owner, builder, homeowners' association, or administration.

Deeds, plans, and registration documentation

Deeds, property registry extracts, plans, and other documents help contextualize the legal relationship with the property.

Licenses and urban planning files

The municipal license can provide relevant information regarding the authorized work.

Technical or expert reports

When issues regarding stability, damages, distances, common elements, or other technical aspects arise, a professional report can be highly beneficial.

Witnesses and notarial records

Witnesses can attest to specific facts. A notarial record can serve to document the state of the construction at a specific point in time.

Effects of construction suspension

The suspension of construction can have several consequences, regarding:

Temporary work stoppage

This is the consequence under the terms established by the court.

Essential measures to preserve what has been built

The suspension does not imply abandonment of all activity. The Civil Procedure Act allows for the performance of essential work to preserve what has already been constructed.

Consequences of violating a court order

If the owner continues work despite a court-ordered suspension, procedural and enforcement consequences may follow.

Subsequent continuation through the appropriate procedure

Suspension does not mean the construction will be demolished. The continuation or removal of what has been built may require the corresponding declaratory proceeding.

Deadlines for taking action against new construction

Speed is essential, waiting for construction to progress can render a request for suspension practically useless.

Differences between an injunction against new construction and other legal actions

Each path addresses a different type of conflict; we can help you identify the right one.

Action to recover or retain possession

Summary protection of possession seeks to provide defense against dispossession or disturbance of possession. The injunction against new construction focuses on the suspension of work currently in progress.

Report of ruinous construction

This seeks the demolition of a structure, building, tree, or similar object in a state of disrepair that threatens to cause damage.

Negatory action and claims for damages

When the issue requires litigating the existence of a right, an easement, an encroachment, or the repair of damages, it may be necessary to pursue other civil actions.

Urban planning complaint to the City Council

If the matter relates to non-compliance with urban planning regulations, you may approach the competent administrative authority.

Precautionary measures in ordinary proceedings

In certain conflicts, it may be necessary to request precautionary measures within a declaratory proceeding, or even before one has commenced.

What should you do if nearby construction is affecting your property?

There are several actions you can take, including:

Documenting the progression of the damage

Through photographs, videos, dates, and correspondence.

Reviewing the permit and urban planning file

To understand what has actually been authorized and to compare the execution against the project plans.

Requesting a technical inspection

This is recommended when there are construction or structural issues.

Seeking legal advice before taking action

Especially when you wish to request an urgent suspension.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can construction be halted even if it has a municipal permit?

The existence of a permit does not automatically eliminate potential civil disputes between private parties.

What happens if the construction has already been completed?

An injunction may not be the appropriate route. Other actions must be evaluated to determine the ideal procedure.

Is it mandatory to provide an expert report?

There is no general rule requiring its submission. However, it can be highly advisable when the dispute has a technical dimension.

How long can the suspension of construction last?

The suspension is provisional; its duration will depend on the judicial ruling and the progress of the proceedings.

Can compensation be claimed for damages caused?

Yes, provided that the requirements for the corresponding liability action are met.

What happens if the owner continues construction despite a court order?

Failure to comply with a court-ordered suspension may result in procedural and enforcement consequences.

Legal and technical review of Domoblock projects

Before participating in a real estate project, it is essential to verify that the asset and the planned works are free of any possession, zoning, or neighboring property disputes. Domoblock analyzes every opportunity and coordinates the legal and technical review prior to acquisition. It manages the renovation and sale of the property.

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Conclusion

The injunction against new construction is a tool designed to address construction that may infringe upon possession, property, or other rights before the damage becomes difficult to repair. Its primary value lies in its speed and preventive nature. Domoblock assists you throughout the entire process.

Autor

Sergio Navarro

Expert in blockchain, investments, and personal finance

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Financiado

Valencia | Bétera

Calle Pilar Mateo

DOMO-VLC-36 Fase 1
Obra nueva

Funded

100%

1.167.964,69€

Target

1.167.964,69€

Rentabilidad estimada:
13%
Duración estimada:
11
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