Neighbors' Disputes Are Common Among a Third of Britons - Here Are the Most Frequent Causes
Living in a neighbourhood can be a pleasant experience, but for many Britons, neighbour disputes can turn their peaceful lives into a source of stress. Here's a look at some common neighbourhood disputes and tips for avoiding them.
Neighbourhood Disputes: What's Common?
Disputes among neighbours most frequently involve boundary issues, such as disagreements over fences, walls, hedges encroaching on property lines, unclear property deeds, and changes to boundaries over time. Other typical disputes include overhanging trees and shrubs, shared rights of way (easements), parking rights, and access to property for maintenance[1][2][3][4][5].
Understanding the Biggest Bugbears
A survey revealed that 78% of people find noise to be their biggest concern, followed by parking-spot poaching neighbours (71%), curtain twitchers (70%), and neighbours refusing to cut back trees or shrubs[1][2]. Interestingly, asking a neighbour for their wifi password was deemed to be 'red flag' behaviour[1].
Moving to a New Property: Steps to Avoid Conflicts
To avoid nightmare neighbours when moving to a new property, consider these steps:
- Check and clarify property boundaries before buying by reviewing deeds, property plans, and physically inspecting boundaries. Use a professional surveyor if needed to identify exact boundaries and potential encroachments[3][4].
- Investigate any existing easements or rights of way affecting the property and understand their implications. Address any disputes or ambiguities early with neighbours or solicitors[2].
- Speak to neighbours and local residents beforehand to gauge relationships and identify potential issues or ongoing disputes around the property.
- Review the property's history for disputes such as boundary conflicts, adverse possession claims, or longstanding parking rights, so you know what challenges you might face[4][5].
- Communicate openly and promptly with neighbors about any shared boundaries or maintenance matters and seek amicable solutions before issues escalate[1][3][4].
Preventing Disputes: Key Strategies
Discussing issues with neighbours at an early stage can prevent disputes from escalating. Lack of communication is a common issue in neighbour disputes, so maintaining open lines of communication is crucial[1]. Young adults aged between 18 to 34 are particularly sensitive to noisy or nosey neighbours[1].
Seeking Help: When Disputes Arise
If disputes arise or if property documents are unclear, seeking expert legal advice early can prevent costly and prolonged conflicts[1][4]. Mediation is a voluntary, confidential process that can help resolve neighbour disputes[1]. Invasive species like Japanese knotweed can also cause problems for many Britons[1].
The Prevalence of Neighbour Disputes
One in three Britons has experienced a dispute with their neighbour[1]. People aged 55 or over are the most likely to have next-door disagreements[1]. By being proactive and taking the necessary steps, you can reduce the risks of becoming involved in neighbour disputes and ensure a more harmonious living situation after moving[1][2][3][4][5].
[1] https://www.gov.uk/guidance/dealing-with-neighbour-disputes [2] https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk/housing/problems-with-your-landlord/problems-with-your-neighbours/ [3] https://www.royalsociety.org/topics-policy/projects/neighbour-disputes/ [4] https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2004/34/contents/enacted [5] https://www.civicvoice.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2016/03/Neighbour-Disputes-Report-2015.pdf
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