Scottish Daily Mail

Never mind knotweed: Neighbours’ hot tubs and fire pits are latest garden gripes

- By Colin Fernandez and Val Elliott

THE back garden is an oasis for many – but can easily lead to explosive rows with neighbours over seemingly trivial things, an etiquette guide warns.

Children’s trampoline­s, hot tubs, smoky barbecues and fire pits are singled out as the main triggers for neighbourl­y feuds.

The guide, compiled by Price Your Job’s gardening expert Harry Bodell, says trampoline­s should be placed away from a boundary wall, fence or hedge to make sure anyone jumping cannot see what is going on next door. Searches for the equipment were up 133 per cent in Google Trends in the past month and complaints were even being posted on Mumsnet.

One said: ‘My wellbeing and happiness are being severely impacted by my neighbour’s noisy children... Last year they got an enormous trampoline and positioned it right up against (their) fence bordering our garden.’

Hot tubs can also be a nuisance with noisy bubbling varying from 41 to 67 decibels – and that is without any loud shrieks or chatter from users. The guide advises to take your dips when you don’t disturb the neighbours and avoid packing friends in for a hot tub party during the evening.

Billowing smoke from a barbecue or fire pit can also disrupt harmony. The guide advises to check the wind direction before lighting up and reposition an appliance to prevent a hazard. Meanwhile, painting a fence or planting a climber can also bring out a grievance. You should check you are the rightful owner of the fence, and if in doubt always ask to avoid conflict.

And if you have a dog, the guide warns to be mindful that persistent barking can cause offence. It says to not leave your pet unattended. And if you are bothered by a yapping dog, discuss it with the owner.

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