Anti-social behaviour (ASB) encompasses virtually any intimidating or damaging behaviour that scares you or damages your quality of life. If you experience problems with anti-social neighbours you should write to your local authority and ask them to investigate. You can also request that the police become involved.
After receiving your complaint, your local authority will evaluate whether or not there is enough evidence to apply to the local court for an Anti-Social Behaviour Order (ASBO). An ASBO tells an anti-social person to cease behaving in a certain way for a specified period of at least two years - a typical ASBO lasts ten years, but can be imposed indefinitely.
Any breach of an ASBO by the anti-social person constitutes a criminal offence that can carry penalties of up to five years' imprisonment.
** Additional Information & Advice **
In addition to contacting your local authority and police about an anti-social neighbour, it may be wise to consult a solicitor to get help, particularly in extreme cases.
You can be matched with a solicitor in your area for free via solicitor matching services, which can also help you to understand the best course of action and whether you are ready to hire a solicitor.
England & Wales:
- Directgov: Anti-Social Behaviour
- Directgov: Neighbour Disputes
- Shelter: Anti-Social Behaviour
- Community Legal Advice: What is anti-social behaviour and what can be done about it?
- Local Government Ombudsman: Complaints about neighbour nuisance and anti-social behaviour
Northern Ireland:
- NI Housing Rights Service
- NI Direct: Tackling Anti-Social Behaviour
- Northern Ireland Legal Services Commission
- Northern Ireland Ombudsman
Scotland:
- Scottish Government: Anti-Social Behaviour
- Shelter: Anti-Social Behaviour
- Scottish Legal Aid Board
- Scottish Public Services Ombudsman
Great Britain and Northern Ireland:
