If your neighbour’s behaviour is causing you problems, try talking to them to see if the problem can be sorted out between yourselves.
Before approaching your neighbour, you may want to consider the following:
Do…
Be courteous, calm and polite
Choose a convenient time for everyone. Avoid meal times or late at night
If you get on with your neighbour and the problem is noise, invite them round to your house to hear this
Describe the problem and give examples of how you have been disturbed
Keep to the relevant issues
Allow them to express their views
Be open to suggestions for resolving the problem
Come to an agreement that is suitable to all
Avoid exaggerating the problem
Don’t…
Retaliate – this will worsen the problem and increase tension
Go round when you are angry
Never use threatening behaviour. If this is used against you, walk away immediately
Become involved in an argument
Go round to make them apologise
Drag up every other issue you may have with your neighbour
Avoid ganging up on your neighbour, if others are affected by the behaviour ask one of them to accompany you
Go round when the nuisance is occurring unless you feel the situation is safe enough to approach your neighbour
Remember…
If you go round on your own, let someone know where you are going
The other option is to write to your neighbour, but keep a copy for your records as it is useful evidence
Before you approach your neighbour, think about the risk to your personal safety and property
If your attempts to resolve the problem are unsuccessful, or you feel uncomfortable about approaching your neighbour, then you can report the behaviour by:
