Taking Informal Action

When trying to resolve a dispute with your neighbour, talking to them or writing a friendly note is the best first step. Politely explain how it affects you and ask your neighbour to reduce the disturbance. It can be hard to bring up a difficult conversation, but your neighbour may genuinely be unaware of the upset they are causing and they will appreciate the effort you are making to reach out.

• Speak with your neighbour before you get angry or upset. Don't wait to get very frustrated about the problem. If you are upset wait until you are calmer
  
  
• Choose a convenient time
  
  
• Think beforehand about what you want to say. Be clear and precise about your view of the problem
  
  
• Remember they may not even know that this problem has been affecting you
  
  
• Never shout, use abuse, bad language or threaten retaliation
  
  
• Give your neighbour plenty of time to express his or her views. Be patient, and listen carefully
  
  
• Be prepared to accept differences in attitudes but be firm about those activities that cause inconvenience or harm
  
  
• Take the view that together you can sort the problem out and remain on good terms
  
  
• Bring all the relevant issues into the open from the start. Don't keep the awkward bits hidden
  
  
• Be careful not to bring in matters that are not relevant to the immediate problem
  
  
• Be reasonable. If your neighbour offers to make concessions or put him or herself out see if you can do the same. Both of you must feel entirely happy with the result if it is to work

If this approach doesn't work, then make a note of the fact that you have approached the person and the date and their response.

You can find more information by visiting the Neighbour Noise FAQ page and can make a complaint by reporting it online via the Report a Noise Problem page.