Research by consumer publication Which? has found that one-quarter of UK households have experienced problems with nuisance neighbours in the last three years.
Figures published in the October issue of Which? show that in the last 12 months, half of those who were victims of anti-social behaviour by neighbours were left feeling angry (53%).
More than half (52%) also felt irritable as a result of nuisance neighbours – while 42% felt “stressed” by anti-social behaviour among neighbours.
As many as one in 10 of those questioned said they felt “afraid” as a result of living with anti-social behaviour.
Nuisance can cover a wide range of problems – including public order offences such as graffiti or urinating in public places in neighbourhoods; as well as neighbours who argue loudly or play TVs and audio equipment loudly or at unsociable hours of the day or night.
Most leases provide for noise to be limited in some way, including the playing of loud music and instruments, as well as loud parties – and leases often stipulate that noise must be limited before 8am and after 11pm.
Local councils usually offer a Noise Patrol to witness any instance of antisocial behaviour, including loud music, frequent noisy arguments or loud DIY or building works.
Which? researchers also found that 27% of people were upset by doors slamming – while 23% of households suffered noise intrusion as a result of noise made by heavy footsteps in neighbours’ homes.
Many new and refurbished homes are now without curtains and carpets, making amplification of noise potentially much worse. However, leases may again provide for noise to be limited – a lease may stipulate properties have to be carpeted and curtained or be fitted with appropriate or suitable floor coverings, for example. However, homeowners may feel they are within their rights to follow current décor trends and remove carpets and curtains, which help absorb sound.
Noise from pets – such as barking dogs – was also a major concern, the Which? survey found, with 21% of households questioned complaining about noisy pets belonging to neighbours.
Councils and local police are both tasked with dealing with anti-social behaviour.
The council’s environmental office may have a dedicated noise team – or incidents of anti-social behaviour in neighbourhoods can be reported to a Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Duncan Lewis Crime Solicitors
Duncan Lewis crime solicitors are able to advise at any stage of a charge for offences relating to anti-social behaviour or public order offences.
Duncan Lewis crime solicitors regularly visit police stations, courts and prisons to advise on criminal charges – including youth courts and Young Offender Institutions (YOIs).
For expert legal advice on criminal charges, call Duncan Lewis crime solicitors on 020 7923 4020.
Legal Advice on Nuisance Neighbours
Duncan Lewis may also be able to help households suffering the effects of anti-social behaviour and nuisance neighbours – call 020 7923 4020 and ask to speak to Duncan Lewis litigation solicitors, who can advice on housing matters and disputes with neighbours.
Duncan Lewis is a leading provider of Legal Aid services.