Nuisance neighbours

As restrictions ease, to allow gatherings in people’s homes, we ask the experts what to do if your neighbour’s get-togethers – or any other behaviour – makes life difficult for you

We all hope to get along with W the people we live closest to, especially in recent months when we’ve been spending more time at home. But, for some people, this past year has only made them more aware of problems with noisy or disruptive neighbours.

The relaxation of restrictions that allow outdoor gatherings of up to 30 people from May 17 could herald even greater issues, with a greater likelihood of late-night parties or excessive music. So what can you do if this affects you?

Amanda Hamilton, chief executive of the National Association of Licensed Paralegals (nationalparalegals.co.uk), says that “the good news is that there are actions you can take.”

First, though, you need to work out if what you’re experiencing is legally considered a nuisance. “A nuisance relates to noise that consistently stops you doing what you normally do, such as sleeping or having a conversation,” she says. This might include loud music, barking dogs or fireworks outside of Bonfire Night and New Year. “Nuisances can also relate to odours, dust, smoke, security lights coming on at all hours, dumped rubbish and vandalism – anything that interferes with the enjoyment of your own home and garden.”

Amanda advises taking these steps:

■ Discuss the issue with your neighbour politely, as they may simply not realise they’re causing a disturbance. If the neighbour is a tenant, you could also contact their landlord.

■ If talking doesn’t work and the problem persists, contact your council’s environmental health team. They will send someone to experience the nuisance and can send warnings to your neighbour, the third notice of which can carry powers of arrest or to seize the subject of the disturbance, such as a music system.

■ As a last resort if the council’s intervention does not solve the problem, you can apply through the courts for an injunction which forces the neighbour to stop the disturbance. This can be costly, so talk to your solicitor or get free legal advice from Citizens Advice first (visit citizensadvice.org. uk or call 0800 144 8848 in England/0800 702 2020 in Wales).