A little understanding can prevent neighbourly disputes

Posted: 05 Nov 2007 10:51:35 GMT

UK homeowners are more likely to row with their neighbours over noise than any other issue.

UK homeowners are more likely to row with their neighbours over noise than any other issue.

That is according to new research by Halifax Estate Agents, which reveals that 31 per cent of Britons have had a neighbourly dispute in the last 12 months.

The most common argument is over noise, with 26 per cent of rows centring on this issue.

Land boundaries (14 per cent) are also a popular bone of contention, as are pets (11 per cent) and parking (ten per cent).

Women are said to be more likely to row with their neighbours than men, while people aged between 16 and 24 years of age are also the most likely to become involved in a dispute.

"Noise remains the number one reason for neighbourly disputes. It's always advisable to settle things amicably and avoid any unnecessary aggravation," said Colin Kemp from Halifax Estate Agents.

"It's also important to remember that any formal disputes will have to be declared on a 'Seller's Property Information Form' when you come to sell your home. 

"Ensuring good neighbourly relations is always a prudent measure – that way unpleasant situations can be prevented," he continued.

Anti-social behaviour other than noise causes eight per cent of rows, followed by over hanging trees (seven per cent) and bad behaviour of children (seven per cent).

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