Disputes with your neighbours can arise for many reasons. Sometimes it can get hard to decide what steps to take to resolve them. There are a lot of different approaches you can take if any disputes arise with your neighbour.
Our legal team can provide advice on handling neighbour disputes that you may encounter with your neighbour. We can guide you on the different routes that you can take to try and resolve any issues with the people next door.
Common neighbour disputes
Noisy neighbours
One common complaint people can have with their neighbours is to do with noise. Disputes can often arise if the neighbour is too loud, especially during antisocial hours. Noise complaints can vary from endless barking of a dog or loud music. While some noise is unavoidable, some noise can become unbearable and make it impossible to live life in peace.
Boundary disputes
The question of exact boundary lines can be a contentious topic between neighbours. This can often lead to disagreements between the two parties and disputes over the extent of one’s property. This kind of dispute can be extremely costly and can even last for years.
Shared amenities and responsibility
Sometimes two or more properties have several shared features, such as drains and pipes, shared driveways, right of access ways, shared gardens, or even a common rooftop on a block of flats. Arguments can arise over the responsibility and duties of looking after shared facilities, especially in flats.
Abusive, violent, or anti-social neighbours
Sometimes you can have neighbours who can be abusive or violent. This type of people can exhibit anti-social behaviours such as verbal abuse, harassment, intimidation, bullying to animal nuisance, and vandalism. If you experience any such issues, you are advised to establish the person responsible and try and mediate the situation sooner.
Three Ways To Deal With Neighbour Disputes
Talk with your neighbour
The first and usually the most effective way to resolve any problem you may have with your neighbour is to talk to them. Sometimes your neighbour may not even be aware of how their action is causing you distress. So before taking any serious action, try and talk with your neighbour about the issue. Be polite and try to talk out possible solutions.
Third-party intervention
If your neighbour is not willing to talk it out, you can try a third-party intervention.
For instance, if the issue is about noise, you can make a complaint to the local council of the area. The local council will arrange an Environmental Health Officer (EHO) officer to investigate the issue. If the noise is found to be a nuisance under the law, the offending neighbour will be issued a notice to control the noise.
Likewise, you can take the help of a third-party to help you deal with the problems you experience due to your neighbour’s or misunderstanding or disputes between you and your neighbours.
Legal proceeding
If the above ways don’t help in resolving disputes with neighbours, your last resort is to take action and take the matter to the court. Legal proceedings are complex, expensive, and can be emotionally draining. It can also damage a good relationship you have with your neighbour. If you are determined to take this action, you should get help from a lawyer to understand the merits of your case and determine if it’s really worth it.
At Alfred James & Co Solicitors LLP, we can assist you in neighbour disputes. Our experienced lawyers can provide legal advice and representation for resolving any conflict between neighbours. If you are in any dispute with your neighbour and need legal assistance, feel free to contact us. We’ll do our best to help you resolve the problem in the most efficient way.
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