Resolving problems with neighbours
Here are some steps to help you try to resolve any noise problems with your neighbours.
Step one: Try talking to your neighbour
Most people do not realise they are causing a problem and are reasonable if approached in person. We suggest that you try talking to the person/people responsible for whatever is causing you a problem.
However, if your neighbour is unreasonable, leave the discussion.
Step two: Mediation
If after listening to each other’s views, you’re unable to reach an agreement, mediation might be helpful to you. SHP has trained mediators who can intervene to provide support in resolving disputes.
Mediation is an informal and confidential intervention available to help neighbours sort out their differences and reach an agreement to avoid matters escalating. Mediators are experienced in dealing with a range of neighbour disputes including noise, visitors at unsociable hours, boundary disputes, disposal of rubbish and parking.
Mediation can help you and your neighbour understand each other’s point of view and reach an amicable solution by:
- setting ground rules for discussions
- ensuring the views of both neighbours are heard
- suggesting ways forward to ensure long term resolution.
During the mediation process, everyone involved is spoken to separately and then a meeting is arranged with all parties. Meetings work best face-to-face, so if you’re worried about meeting your neighbour(s), you can take someone with you, or the mediator may be able to act as a go-between. A neutral venue can be arranged and is generally recommended for the meeting so that both parties can feel comfortable when they meet up.
The mediator will agree recommendations with both parties and will then submit these recommendations in writing. Although these aren’t legally binding, both parties are likely to stick to an arrangement that they’ve worked out and which they’ve freely signed up to.
What we can do if things don't improve
We’re committed to promoting a safe and secure environment so that all residents can live peacefully in the community and we’ll work positively with all relevant agencies to achieve this outcome. Please contact your Housing Manager with any questions.