FAQs about Litigation & Disputes

WHAT CAN I DO ABOUT NOISY NEIGHBOURS?

Neighbours

  • It is important that you speak to your neighbour face to face about the problem. If you are not comfortable doing that, write to him or her explaining what causes the noise and how you would like this to be resolved.
  • If the noise concerns a burglar alarm, every local council has the permission to get into the premises and switch it off.

Business or traffic noise

  • Noise from businesses, clubs and factories can be dealt with in the same manner as with the noisy neighbours.
  • Households incurring traffic or train noise can get a noise insulation grant from the local authority.

Level of noise allowed

  • In order to decide this, it will have to be established how regularly the noise happens, the times and place of occurrence, and people concerned.
  • If the noise is proved to be a statutory nuisance, the local authority can serve a notice on your neighbour to end the noise.

Penalties

Failure to comply with the local authority’s order may lead to a fine of up to £5,000 for your neighbour or up to £20,000 for a business.

Problems with a neighbour’s hedge

  • Resolve the problem with your neighbour personally or write a letter to explaining the issues
  • Do not trim the hedge without getting professional advise.
  • Failure to reach an agreement with your neighbour may mean that you need to get an independent mediator who will find a solution for you.
  • If this does not help, you can ask the council to help you. However, you will have to pay for this service.

Overhanging trees

  • Ask your neighbour to cut the overhanging branches
  • If he does not comply with your request, then you can do it yourself by cutting it to the boundary line
  • Ensure that the tree is not protected by a preservation order.
  • In the event, the falling branches are dangerous, inform the council and request them to take action.