Dealing with disruptive neighbours
We've put together some advice to help you have a conversation with disruptive neighbours.
Download your own 'polite note'
You can use this template letter to politely let your neighbour know that their behaviour is causing you some disruption. Write down how the behaviour is making you feel and the impact it's having on you so that your neighbour can understand things from your point of view.
Once you've drafted your letter, read it back and think to yourself, "If I received this, how would it make me feel?"
If you think it could cause more friction between you and your neighbour, try again or change it until you're happy with it.
Record what's happening
We need evidence of ASB happening to help us investigate it properly. Document incidents with details like date, time, what happened, and the impact it had on you.
Communicate
If you feel safe to do so, communicating openly and politely with your neighbours is a great way to resolve an issue.
- Choose the right time and place: Make sure that you can speak calmly and privately, without fear of escalation.
- Explain the impact: Share how their behaviour is affecting you.
- Compromise: Suggest solutions and be prepared to meet in the middle.
- Avoid yelling or getting angry. Stay calm and focus on explaining the situation and reaching a solution.
Consider mediation
A mediator can help you to have a helpful conversation and find common ground.
Keep alert
Loud, frequent arguments may be a sign of domestic abuse happening in a home. If you hear something that's worrying you, please let us know. Call 999 if you're concerned that someone may be hurt.
Report it
- Contact your local council: They often have a team or department dedicated to handling ASB complaints.
- Report to the police: If the ASB is serious, criminal, or poses a threat to safety, contact the police immediately.
Dealing with noise
We've created this short animation about what noise nuisance is and what steps we can take to support you when you have a complaint.
We’ll also explain what you can do when a situation is something we won’t get involved with.