Nuisance Neighbours

Its every homeowners' nightmare, neighbours from hell! But if your neighbours are causing you problems, you are not alone. Sadly, neighbour problems are on the increase across the country. Neighbour problems cover a range of issues from annoying things like playing music too loudly, or an argument over a hedge or fence to serious incidents like harassment and threats of violence. All of these things disturb the quiet enjoyment which our tenants should be able to expect.

Wherever possible you should try to resolve the problem yourself. Often the best way to resolve a neighbour problem is by the neighbours involved just talking to each other and trying to see each other's point of view. Simply advising someone that their behaviour is upsetting the peace and lifestyle of their neighbours can be enough.

• When you speak to your neighbour try to explain why their behaviour is causing you a problem.
• Stay calm and don't get involved in an argument.
• If your neighbour is unreasonable, walk away.
• Seek advice if things don't improve and especially if you notice a deterioration.

If you are a tenant of Chester and District Housing Trust (external link) , you should contact them to tell them of your problems or concerns.  If you are dealing with a noisy neighbour, our Environmental Health Team may be able to help.  The Citizens Advice Bureau (external link),  a local tenants association or the police may also be able to give advice depending on the problem.

You may want to  start to collect evidence in case you want to take further action yourself or if you want the council or other agency to take action on your behalf. You will need to record dates, times and what happened. You may wish to take photographs if this helps your case, eg of cars being repaired. You may wish to speak with other neighbours to see if they are also affected by the problem. They might help by also keeping diaries and providing supporting evidence. But remember not to become a nuisance neighbour yourself by spying on or watching people.