Neighbour disputes are tricky.
How they are handled can determine whether they escalate or disappear.
Here’s a guide on dealing with them in the right way.
What counts as a neighbour dispute?
A neighbour dispute is when you have a conflict with your neighbour.
This is often a difference of opinion over a subject. For example, if a neighbour refuses to adhere to an agreement.
You should speak to your estate agent or a solicitor if this occurs while selling a house. You must disclose disputes to potential buyers.
How common are neighbour disputes?
Neighbour disputes are common.
According to a recent survey, around 60% of adults in the UK say they’ve experienced a neighbour conflict.
And the truth is, neighbours might fall out over dozens of different things.
This increases the likelihood, especially in busy cities, where so many neighbours surround you at once.
Most common reasons for Neighbour Disputes
Noise
One neighbour could complain if another is making too much noise.
Especially if this is during unsociable hours (at night), perhaps they keep hosting parties. Or maybe their dog is barking loudly.
Property boundaries
Disputes over property boundaries are widespread.
This is especially true if these are not clearly defined in the title documents. Or if a ‘gentlemen’s agreement’ has been made.
Sometimes, these disputes are related to structures built beyond boundaries. Other times it can be about more minor issues, like collapsed boundary walls.
Access
Rights of access are much like property boundaries, in that there’s a legal ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ answer.
But finding this can be tricky, and in the meantime, the relationship becomes tense.
A dispute could arise if someone is accessing a path that another neighbour feels they shouldn’t.
Trees
This is less common in busy cities, where most properties don’t have gardens. But in the countryside, trees can cause a major issue.
If a tree is diseased, or leaning over, a neighbour might be concerned it’ll damage their property.
Neighbour’s overgrown gardens can also generally bring down the appearance of the road more broadly.
Anti-social behaviour
It goes without saying that this can cause problems between neighbours.
Swearing, abuse, or alcohol can all prompt arguments. In the worst-case scenario, the police might get involved.
Pets
Even though most of us love pets, two neighbours with pets may fall out.
This could be because there’s a fight between their animals. Or because one of the pets is misbehaving in the building.
Parking
Many homeowners are very sensitive about parking, especially in towns and cities, where spaces are premium.
You may get into a heated argument if two neighbours disagree over who has the right to use a space.
Rubbish
Leaving bins in the wrong place could prompt an argument. Littering on someone else’s land will also cause tension.
Settling a neighbour disputes
The UK government website offers clear advice on how to deal with a neighbour dispute.
Regardless of the situation, you usually follow the same few steps.
Speak to your neighbour
Your first step should be to have an informal conversation with your neighbour.
Bring up the subject in a polite, respectful way. Explain how you feel and get their opinion on it.
Hopefully, the situation can be resolved there and then.
If your neighbour is a tenant, speak to their landlord
If they’re renting, you may want to contact your neighbour’s landlord.
This could be because your neighbour has no right to change the situation. Or perhaps they don’t have the information you need.
Use a mediation service
A mediator could be brought in, if an informal conversation doesn’t get anywhere.
This mediator can speak to both parties and try to find common ground.
This is useful if there’s personal animosity between the two neighbours. A mediator is an expert at finding a way to move forward positively.
Complain to your local council
If necessary, you may want to complain to your local council.
This is usually because there’s a statutory nuisance involved, such as barking dogs or loud music. The council should then investigate.
Contact the police (only if necessary)
You can contact the police if your neighbour is breaking the law.
This usually relates to harassment or abusive behaviour. Make sure that there aren’t other options you can explore first.
Take legal action through the courts
You can act against your neighbour through the court system if all else fails.
Speak to a solicitor or lawyer who can advise you on this. You’ll need to budget for this, as the professional by your side will expect payment.
Do I need to disclose neighbour disputes when selling a house?
Yes, if the dispute is ongoing. This means that it hasn’t been resolved and the problems still occur.
Your estate agent or solicitor can advise on whether something falls within this category.
If you fail to disclose a dispute, your buyer can act against you.
Can I be sued for not disclosing a neighbour dispute?
Yes, you can. Your buyer may want to claim for property misrepresentation.
They could expect monetary payment for this.
After all, the argument can be made that they’d have paid much less (or walked away altogether) if they’d known the truth.
Does a neighbour dispute impact property value when selling?
Yes. Properties with an ongoing dispute with neighbours are less valuable. This is because the new buyer will need to take on this burden.
The drop in value is minimal if you give a detailed report about the issue.
This includes any events, such as legal action or reports from inspectors.
The worse the dispute, the more it’ll affect house value. An independent property valuer can enlighten you further on this.
