Now that more and more people live in housing communities, we can all expect a certain amount of noise and disturbance from others going about their normal, daily lives.
Most people respect others’ need for privacy and quiet, but there are a few people and families who act unreasonably towards their neighbours and the community.
As your landlord, Irwell Valley will investigate allegations of nuisance or anti-social behaviour, and will deal with the complaint effectively and appropriately. To report a neighbour dispute, contact your Neighbourhood Officer during normal working hours. Alternatively, you can seek advice or report an incident outside of these hours – between 5pm and 9am Monday to Friday, and 24 hours on a Saturday or Sunday – by calling 0800 035 22 10.
Neighbour Mediation Service
Neighbour disputes often start over a small issue but can quickly grow into a more serious problem, which can affect a person’s health and day-to-day life. To prevent an issue escalating in to a major problem, Irwell Valley offers a Neighbour Mediation Service. Mediation is a confidential process in which an impartial third party, i.e. someone who isn’t involved in the dispute, helps to resolve the problem in an informal environment.
If you would like to find out more about how mediation can help, please contact your Neighbourhood Officer.
Are you a good neighbour?
Most of the anti-social behaviour reported to Irwell Valley involves disputes between neighbours. Here are some tips on how to be a good neighbour and avoid conflict:
- If you go on holiday and set a burglar alarm, make sure you give someone a key, just in case your alarm goes off.
- If you are having a party, tell your neighbours, or better still, invite them!
- Position your fridge, freezer or speakers away from shared walls
- If you have a dog, try not to let it bark for long periods of time
- Try to use your washing machine or vacuum cleaner during the day
- If you play a musical instrument, do not practise early in the morning or late at night
- Try not to make excessive noise between the hours of 7pm and 8am on weekdays or Saturdays and before 10am or after 5pm on a Sunday