Neighbour disputes can arise for many reasons and it’s often hard to know what to do to resolve the issue – dealing with them can be a delicate matter.
Find a few of our frequently asked questions here and do let us know if you have any further queries that we can help you with.
What are the most common neighbour disputes?
Aside from boundary disputes, other common problem areas are:
- Noise/nuisance
- Pets
- Shared driveways
- Trespassing
- Trees and hedges
What is the initial best course of action to take in resolving a neighbour dispute?
Where possible we encourage clients to resolve disputes with neighbours by way of negotiation or mediation in order to keep tension at a minimum (you will then likely remain neighbours after all is resolved).
Firstly, try talking to your neighbour about the problem, approach them in a friendly way and see if you can reach an agreement in relation to the issues that they are causing you. If you are worried about how your neighbour might react, you could write them a letter instead. Again, try to take a reasonably friendly approach.
If talking to the neighbour isn’t helping. Depending on the dispute, the local council could be your next port of call for problems with noise or pets for example. You can contact the police if your neighbour is breaking the law by being violent or harassing you and as a last resort you can take legal action through the civil courts.
What if the problem continues to persist?
If the problem persists, you should seek legal advice for further guidance on whether it would be worth it and what you should do to prepare if so. You could try mediation or sometimes a letter before claim, either written by yourself of from a solicitor may be enough to get your neighbour to resolve the problem, without you having to actually go to court.
How does mediation work?
Mediation is a process for resolving disputes where a third party helps neighbours negotiate a compromise.
Neighbours do not necessarily have to meet face to face. It is recommended that neighbours try mediation before formally commencing legal proceedings.
When exactly should I take legal advice?
It is useful to seek independent legal advice from the very outset. A solicitor can advise on the various options available to resolve your situation and would set out what action can be taken against your neighbour by having your best interests at heart.
How can PGM help me?
Contact us for further guidance on any dispute you may be experiencing with a neighbour and our specialist team will guide you through the best course of action to take. We will offer the first 30 minutes for free.
Call 01792 468684 or email enquiries@pgmsolicitors.co.uk.
