Help and advice Good neighbour guide

Noise

Everyone expects some noise from their neighbours, but it's important to be considerate and try to reduce noise when possible.

Here are some things you can do to minimise disturbances:

• Keep your music and TV at a reasonable level. Try not to put speakers against shared walls or open windows.
• Avoid loud flooring materials like laminates, especially in flats.
• Reduce noise from slamming doors by fixing issues like faulty hinges and locks.
• Tell your neighbours in advance if you're doing something noisy like DIY, and do it at reasonable times of the day.
• Tell your neighbours about parties or gatherings and ask guests to be mindful of noise.

Gardens

Keeping your garden clean and tidy makes your neighbourhood better for everyone.

Follow the tips below to avoid causing problems for your neighbours:

• Trim trees and hedges to stop them from entering your neighbour’s garden.
• Don't keep rubbish or unwanted items in your garden. It can attract pests and cause issues for you and your neighbours.
• Use your barbecue safely. Place it in a well-ventilated area away from fences and other flammable structures. Be mindful of the wind direction and smoke.
• Contact us if you find it difficult to maintain your garden. We may be able to help.

Waste and recycling

We're all responsible for disposing of waste correctly.

Here are some tips to help keep our communities clean:

• Only use the designated bins for your household and separate recycling from waste.
• Don't leave bin bags on the floor, and keep bin lids closed to avoid attracting pests.
• Dispose of large items responsibly. Your local council will provide a bulky waste collection service at a reasonable cost. If you're using a private collection service, make sure that they're a registered waste carrier.

Shared spaces

Shared spaces include entrances to blocks of flats, balconies, staircases, corridors, drying areas, gardens, yards, and parking areas. Being considerate about how you use these spaces can make a big difference to your neighbours.

Follow the steps below to help keep you and your neighbours safe:

• Keep shared spaces clear of belongings. This is a legal requirement to keep you and your neighbours safe in the event of a fire.
• Keep shared entrance doors closed and don't let anyone into the block that you don't know.
• Avoid slamming entrance doors, especially at night.
• Report broken locks or intercoms as soon as possible so we can fix them.
• If you have an allocated parking space, don't use your neighbour's.
• Don't block your neighbours' entrances or driveways with your car.
• Don't leave untaxed or unroadworthy vehicles in our car parks or spaces.

Pets

In most cases, we're happy for you to keep pets, as long as they don't bother your neighbours. Please check with us before getting a pet, as some homes may not be suitable.

Here are some tips to help reduce pet-related problems with your neighbours:

• Clean up animal waste in your garden and communal areas.
• Keep dogs under control at all times. Use a lead when walking in shared spaces.
• Don't leave dogs alone for long periods. They might become distressed and start barking. This can be very disruptive for your neighbours.
• If you're concerned about dangerous dogs or feel unsafe because of an animal, contact the police right away. After reporting the issue, contact us with the crime reference number and the name of the officer handling your case.

Problems with your neighbours

Issues with neighbours can usually be resolved by talking to them. Neighbours are often unaware that their behaviour is causing a problem.

Here are some tips to help you resolve issues with your neighbours:

• Plan what you want to say and keep it simple.
• Choose an appropriate time to talk to your neighbour. Don't try to have a conversation when they're on their way to work or to collect children from school.
• Stay calm and friendly during your conversation. Don't shout or be aggressive.
• Explain the problem and how it affects you and members of your household.
• Give your neighbour the chance to explain without interrupting them.
• Suggest solutions and try to be flexible.
• If you're concerned about aggressive behaviour, end the conversation politely and contact us for advice.