Being a good neighbour

Being considerate and respectful helps create safe, clean and welcoming communities.

Find guidance on noise, communal areas, parking and resolving issues with neighbours.

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Being a good neighbour

We want everyone to enjoy their home and feel comfortable in their community. Being a good neighbour means being considerate, respectful and understanding of people who may live differently from you.

While we take our responsibilities as your landlord seriously, residents also play an important role in keeping neighbourhoods safe, clean and pleasant.

Noise

Some noise is part of everyday living. Homes are not completely soundproof, so you may occasionally hear things like TVs, music, footsteps, DIY, dogs barking or doors closing.

To help reduce disturbance:

  • Keep TVs, music and other devices at a reasonable level, particularly in the evening and at night.
  • Be aware that noise can travel through walls, floors and ceilings.
  • Use rugs or furniture pads if you have hard flooring to reduce noise.
  • Let neighbours know in advance if you plan noisy activities such as DIY or a gathering.
  • Be considerate if a neighbour asks you to reduce noise.

If noise becomes excessive or persistent, your local authority may investigate under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

If you share spaces such as corridors, staircases, lifts, balconies or bin areas, please help keep them safe and tidy.

  • Do not store personal items such as bikes, prams or furniture in communal areas.
  • Dispose of rubbish properly and keep bin areas tidy.
  • Arrange bulky waste collection through your local council where possible.
  • Keep shared entrance doors closed and do not allow unknown people into the building.
  • Avoid slamming communal doors, especially at night.

Parking can be limited in some areas, so please park considerately.

  • No one has an automatic right to park outside their home.
  • Vehicles parked on public roads must follow the Highway Code.
  • Do not block entrances, garages, dropped kerbs or access routes.
  • Make sure pavements remain accessible for wheelchair users, prams and emergency services.

People may not realise they are causing disruption. Many problems can be resolved by speaking politely with your neighbour first.

  • Approach issues calmly and respectfully.
  • Be open to resolving concerns raised by neighbours.
  • Occasional events such as parties or BBQs may happen, but they should not cause regular disturbance.

Please also remember to:

  • Respect neighbours and their property.
  • Ensure children and visitors behave considerately.
  • Smoke only in permitted areas and dispose of cigarette ends safely.
  • Let neighbours know if you are planning a party, BBQ or bonfire, and keep noise to a reasonable level.