What you can do

Often the best way to resolve a neighbour problemis by the neighbours involved talking to each other and trying to see each other's point of view.  Wherever possible you should try to resolve the problem yourself and simply reminding someone that their behaviour is upsetting the peace and lifestyle of their neighbour can be enough.

Before approaching your neighbour think about what you are going to say.

-   Have a clear simple message in mind.

-  Before you talk to your neighbour, try talking to another person.  This can help to make the problem clearer in your mind.

-  Listen to your neighbour and don't interrupt them when they are talking.

-  Be friendly, remember to stay calm and don't get involved in an argument. 

-  If your neighbour continues to be unreasonable - walk away.

-  Seek advice at an early stage, contact the office or one   of  the other agencies if things don't improve.

As well as approaching your neighbour you should start to collect evidence in case you want to take the action further yourself, or if you want Carey Gardens or other agency to take action on your behalf.

You will need to record times, dates and what happened. Keeping a diary is useful and you may also want to take photographs, for example if car repairs or rubbish is accumulating in the back garden.  You can also approach other neighbours to see if they are affected and ask then to keep diaries to provide supporting evidence.

You may prefer to contact Carey Gardens who may take action or organise a co-ordinated approach by all the agencies involved.

You could also approach a solicitor who may write to your neighbour or give advice about applying for an injunction yourself.  The Citizens Advice Bureau, tenants association, the environmental health department and/or the police may also be able to give you advice depending on the problem.