Man Opposes Installing Elevator, Then Has Change of Heart and Sues the Entire Building

A residential building in Baiyun District, Guangzhou, with nearly 40 years of history, has been embroiled in neighbor disputes over the installation of an elevator for over a year. The only homeowner who voted against the project, Uncle Zhang, requested to pay an additional approximately 19,000 yuan to use the elevator after it was completed, but was opposed by the entire building’s residents. He then sued more than ten neighbors in court.

The elevator project in this building began in June 2024, with hearings and multiple coordination meetings held successively until January 2025. Although Uncle Zhang clearly opposed the project, it proceeded after meeting the legal voting requirements, and in March 2025, the project received the Construction Project Planning Permit. The elevator was officially put into use on February 13, 2026.

Uncle Zhang stated that his opposition to the elevator was based on three main reasons: First, the construction of the elevator and corridor would block his view, affecting lighting and ventilation; second, the raised corridor design allows neighbors passing by to see directly into his kitchen and bathroom, exposing privacy; third, he was worried about safety hazards such as wall cracks and foundation sinking caused by construction.

On-site, reporters observed that from the corridor, some of his home’s space is visible, and Uncle Zhang has installed a screen to block the view himself. After the elevator was completed and elevator cards were issued, Uncle Zhang expressed willingness to pay the original fee to use the elevator, but the elevator preparation team stated that, due to majority opposition, he was not issued a card.

Several homeowners said Uncle Zhang continued to oppose the elevator during its construction, causing other residents to spend considerable time and effort on repeated coordination, delaying progress by nearly a year. Now that he wants to pay and use the elevator, they feel he is taking advantage of the situation. Additionally, Uncle Zhang has sued all the homeowners, further escalating tensions. Some residents said that if he withdraws the lawsuit, negotiations on usage could resume.

The case has been accepted by Baiyun District Court but has not yet been decided. The local street office stated that they have organized mediation multiple times and will continue to facilitate communication between the parties to resolve the dispute as soon as possible.

Source: Guangzhou Daily

Origin: Guiyang Evening News