For those who have been following my journey from the early days of my blog or have read my book, where I delve into earlier experiences, I feel it's important to share some additional details regarding "the builder" and his connections to Barcelona, Castilléjar, and Baza. During his time here, he exhibited a pattern of destructive behavior. For instance, my washing machine suddenly ceased to function, and he was responsible for knocking down the posts of my washing line on two separate occasions, only to later claim, "Sorry, more bad news, we had to take it down again." Moreover, he attempted to persuade me to relocate my water meter to the far end of my garden, closer to neighbouring properties, and even sought to dismantle a fence that we had obtained permission to install (under a minor works license) my husband did so, with assistance from a council worker I believe his surname was Jordan. A common name here it seems as many are related close by. Additionally, he recklessly damaged the stone facade of my cave while attempting to access a pipe that unexpectedly burst.
The proposed relocation of the water meter seemed illogical. As suspicions mounted, I discussed with my husband the necessity of having all of the builder's tools removed from our property. Subsequently, I informed the builder of this decision, yet he persisted in contacting me, insisting on visiting the next day under various pretexts. One such instance was his claim of needing some of our gravel because he had fallen short on materials for another job.
I began to notice discrepancies in the billing as the builder continued to charge us the same rate despite working fewer hours each day. Additionally, the costs for materials escalated as he resorted to obtaining them from alternative sources, his cousin in Barcelona. He asserted that he had discussed the proposed works with the council, although I had already applied for a license independently. Furthermore, he claimed to have personally spoken with the mayor regarding the relocation of my water meter, a statement I found dubious since I know of the mayor and he had not been involved in any such discussion.
In light of these questionable practices, I confronted the builder with my growing concerns. and the last comment I ever said was "there are too many bad people in this world" his response left me gobsmacked. I quote "and too many good."
Make of that what you will.
Despite removing most of his equipment, he left behind an industrial-sized cement mixer, which had required the effort of three men to install. Despite our efforts to move it to the gate, where it obstructed access to our property for approximately two weeks, the builder made no effort to retrieve it. In frustration, I reached out to him via whatsapp, telling him that if he failed to remove the mixer promptly, I would be compelled to involve the council. All communications regarding these incidents have been documented for reference.
There appears to be a disturbing undercurrent of racism at play here, with certain individuals clinging to the erroneous belief that specific families have personal ownership rights over the land. Despite our legal purchase consistent, legitimate tax payments, some individuals seem motivated by a deep-seated fear of losing their perceived entitlement to these lands.
It's disheartening to witness such baseless prejudice and the lengths to which some people will go to maintain their unfounded claims of ownership. As responsible citizens, we are committed to upholding our legal obligations and rights, regardless of the unfounded beliefs of others.
It's important to highlight the concerning behavior of this individual, who not only made racially charged statements but also made alarming threats regarding the legality of my property. Specifically, he mentioned the possibility of his gestor altering my escritura (property deed) and even suggested that he could take ownership of my cave if it wasn't deemed legal.
Furthermore, his proposition to pay a contribution towards the land outside my gate in exchange for ownership rights is deeply troubling and potentially illegal. Such actions amount to coercion and exploitation of property rights, reflecting a blatant disregard for ethical and legal standards.
It's crucial to document these threats, as they constitute harassment and intimidation. No one should be subjected to such unjust treatment or feel threatened in their own home.
It's regrettable that a disagreement with my neighbour over a legitimate concern regarding their hunting dog roaming the streets, killing my cats and injuring my husband escalated into a series of troubling events. The safety of my property and my family, including my pets, is paramount, and it's understandable that I took measures to protect them, such as installing a fence.
However, it's concerning that my neighbor interpreted my actions as a challenge to her perceived rights over these lands. It's essential for neighbours to communicate openly and respectfully, particularly when issues arise that affect the well-being and safety of both parties. It's unfortunate that the situation has devolved into hostility from related individuals who seem intent on asserting unfounded claims and exerting control over my life.
For now it's quiet but I advise all expats to document incidents which can help prevent misunderstandings and mitigate future disputes. Your safety and security, as well as your right to peaceful enjoyment of your property, should always be prioritised. And never hire someone who will only accept cash.
Thus commenced the haunting phenomena within my home, coupled with a decline in my health and the tragic loss of my beloved animals.
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