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The last few years have seen a dramatic rise in neighbourhood disputes ranging from an excess of noise (TV, radio, pets, parties), boundary walls and fences, the lack of garden maintenance and even children. Most disagreements are minor; however some have escalated into major conflicts, and even violence. The good news is that there are techniques to reduce and manage this neighbourhood conflict. This article aims to provide an excellent approach to the prevention of such altercations with your residential neighbours.

Moving house in undoubtedly a very stressful business especially if it involves travelling and starting fresh life’s in a new town, city, or even country. Therefore if you follow the guidelines in this article on how to become a good neighbour, it gives you one less major concern on arrival to your new home.

The first step upon arrival in a new community is to make a concerted effort to introduce yourself (and family) to the houses in the close proximity. Being approachable from the start will definitely make it easier to manage potential disputes in the future, together with the added benefit of their local expertise and information. This opening introduction will also present valuable insights into their prospective lifestyles i.e. quiet evenings, party animals, night shifts etc. This initial briefing/ conversation will help you become considerate of their needs/ lifestyle, whilst they become aware of your requirements. Particular attention in early discussions should involve the common sources of neighbour conflict including noise disturbance, wall vibration, pet problems, land rights, or parking disputes.

Good neighbours will generally keep noise to a minimum between 8pm and 8am, keep vibrating household appliances (washing machine, TV, speakers) away from shared walls, and ensure control of their pet’s and children. If you’re planning a party, make sure to give your neighbours plenty of advance warning, leave a telephone number for contact purposes if they require you to quieten down. Alternatively you could invite them along! Good neighbours will always stick to the agreed arrangements, and will make sure the guests are considerate when leaving the house.

Other neighbourly good practice include the proper maintenance of your garden, comprising of regular weeding, cutting the lawn, and generally keeping rubbish to a minimum. Other garden activities such as playing sport, barbecues or bonfires should be managed in an orderly fashion including thinking about the bonfire’s position, smoke and noise levels, and generally keeping disturbances to a minimum.

Other neighbourly traits to consider include putting the rubbish out on the correct collection day in order not to attract vermin or block other people’s access. Leaving rubbish out unnecessarily can carry a fine so make you use your wheelie bin or communal bin area.

Lastly, make sure that you communicate well with your neighbours. Keep them informed of anything you are planning that may affect them, and be prepared to discuss any problems in order to reach a compromise. However, if you keep to the guidelines outlined within this short article, you should not have any problems with neighbours. You never know, your neighbours might become some of your closest friends.