Our homes should be a safe space where we feel comfortable. However, there may be times when our neighbours do things that upset or annoy us, and sometimes we may do the same without realising it. That's why it's important to recognise these behaviours in ourselves and how our actions can affect others.
Here are some simple ways we can all work towards being better neighbours.
What can I do to be a better neighbour?
- Keep noise levels to a minimum. There may be times when noise in your house goes above the normal level. If this is late at night or early in the morning, it’s good to give your neighbours a warning in advance and let them know it’s a one-off
- Clean up after your pet. Not picking up dog mess is not only illegal but really unpleasant for your neighbours. Always make you sure pick up after pets – and if you have noisy pets, try bringing them inside so the sound doesn’t travel as much and affect your neighbours
- Keep communal areas tidy. Shared areas are there for everyone to enjoy so try to be tidy and respectful. Don’t drop litter, cigarette ends or anything else in communal areas and be considerate when using shared carparks
- Monitor your children. We want our neighbourhoods to be places where families can thrive. Children should feel comfortable enough to play outside but parents should keep an eye out to make sure they’re playing safely and their behaviour is not negatively affecting others
- Welcome new tenants. Take 5 minutes to welcome a new neighbour and make them feel at home. It can make a real difference to your relationship going forward and make it less likely you’ll have issues in the future!
What if I’m having problems with my neighbour?
- Have a chat with them. If you find that you keep having problems with one of your neighbours, we’d always recommend you have a friendly conversation first.
- Make them aware: Your neighbour may not realise that what they’re doing is affecting you. By simply bringing it to their attention, you might resolve the issue.
- Stay calm. Try to be friendly and calm when you approach them on the topic. If you start accusing them or seem angry they’re likely to respond in the same manner.
- Suggest some friendly solutions. If you approach your neighbour with suggestions for how to reduce the disruption, then you’ve already halfway to solving the problem.
- Speak to use for support. If you’re not too sure where to start but would like some support speaking with your neighbour, you could look into using our Restorative Justice service.
What is restorative justice?
Restorative justice (RJ) brings together people affected by a dispute, conflict or a crime, and those responsible for it, to talk. It gives everyone involved the opportunity to discuss the issues that they're having. This helps them to agree on a positive way to change behaviours and move forward.
Learn more about how restorative justice has helped our tenants build a better relationship with their neighbours.
Meet our Restorative Justice Officer, Lauren, below and find out more whether you could benefit from the service .
I need to report antisocial behaviour. What should I do?
If you think you’re experiencing anti-social behaviour, then we encourage you to let us know so we can try and help resolve the issue. You can find out more about anti-social behaviour and, how to report it, here.
