TOP TIPS

1. The problem has to occur with some regularity – a once-a-year party does not count, although neighbours should inform you, even if you are not invited.

2. Many complaints focus on rental properties. Tell the landlord. It may be the tenants are about to leave and can be replaced with better-behaved ones.

3. Students can present problems. But most are more amenable to a friendly rather than a confrontational approach.

4. The police should not be called to parking disputes – and they probably won’t come – unless violence to people or property is likely.

5. What you consider a nuisance, such as a barking dog, may not make any difference to a future dog-owning purchaser.

6. You don’t need to declare any issue that has been fully resolved.

7. Legal expenses cover – part of many home and contents policies – can help with difficult neighbours.