Considering your Neighbours - Ten Top Tips
- If new neighbours move in next-door, try to make them feel welcome. Greet them as early as possible and maybe ask the family over to your house for tea or coffee. Try to exchange telephone details.
- Avoid common neighbour dispute triggers such as bonfires, noisy arguments (particularly late at night), parking in your neighbour's usual space and the noise from repairing your car at anti-social hours.
- If you are planning to hold a party where there is likely to be some noise and disturbance or a lot of cars parked in the area, explain this to your neighbour beforehand. Advise that you will avoid noisy music and stop the music at an agreed time. This is particularly important if they have young children or a family member who is unwell.
- If you want to use power tools or undertake some noisy DIY, aim to do this at a time when your neighbour will not be inconvenienced. If you employ builders, ensure they exercise similar care.
- Ask visitors to your home to respect your neighbours and leave quietly - especially at night. Noisy goodbyes in the road can be disturbing.
- Businesses - consider the impact of your business on the local community, especially noise from early/late deliveries, mechanical plant and any entertainment music.
- If you have new neighbours try to introduce them to existing families that you know in your road. Try to consider the noise from children playing, particularly larger groups.
- If you see your neighbour outside, greet them and ask how they are keeping. If appropriate try to get involved in neighbourhood issues.
- If you are approaching your neighbour about something of concern, contact them in a prepared, calm and polite manner.
- Always try to think well of your neighbour. Try to put yourself in their shoes if you can. And above all try to be tolerant.
