It’s pretty common to have petty disputes with your neighbours from time to time. After all, whenever people are living in close proximity, issues will inevitably arise. Hopefully, you’ll be able to resolve things quickly, but in the case that it escalates, here’s what you need to do.

Start with a Request

If you have an issue with your neighbour, it’s best to make a friendly request face to face. Even if you know it won’t go well, you should attempt this method first. Then you can at least say you tried, even if you need to take things to the next step, it’s always good to try being friendly first.

Submit Your Request in Writing

If the neighbours don’t heed your first request, the second should be in writing. This can and should be copied for your own files, along with the actual date that you gave it to the neighbour. You have now started a paper trail of the issue and this will need to continue.

Track Everything

If things begin to go poorly, you will want to have a record of this. It’s important to track and keep copies of everything. You may save emails, letters, notes and any threats you receive. If the neighbour has called and left messages, don’t delete them no matter how tempting it is. Instead, save them as evidence of the problem.

You should also keep track of everything you do. Be careful, as the evidence can cause issues for your side too, if you are retaliating. It’s best to remain calm and let them know that you are following the situation.

Try Mediation

In this case, you’ll need the cooperation of the neighbours, but seeking a neighbour conciliation and mediation service may help you come to a decision that works for both sides. However, if both sides are very aggressive, mediation is not likely to work.

Get Legal

A solicitor with experience in handling neighbourhood disputes will be able to advise you on what to do and how to resolve the situation. If you do need to go the legal route, be aware that it may require going to court in order to finish the whole thing once and for all. Once you have a lawyer involved, things tend to get quite inflamed and if you already have tense relationships with the neighbours, be cautious about taking this step.

Are you dealing with a difficult neighbour? Contact North Ford Solicitors today for more information on how to deal with problematic neighbours.