Dealing with problem neighbours can be one of the more frustrating aspects of renting a property, and often landlords may find themselves unsure about their role in resolving neighbour disputes. In reality there are a variety of factors which can pose a problem, and understanding the rights and responsibilities of property owners, tenants and landlords is key to resolving any issues that arise.
A "problem neighbour" is typically someone whose behaviour disrupts the peace, comfort, or safety of others living in the area. This can include a wide range of activities, from excessive noise (such as loud music or shouting), to harassment, to creating an unsafe or unsanitary living environment.
Examples of problem neighbour behaviour may include:
As a landlord with a problem in a neighbouring property, you are not directly responsible for the actions of that neighbour. However, if your tenant has made several complaints about the neighbour and that neighbour is causing significant disturbances (such as engaging in illegal activity or making excessive noise), you as the landlord may have a legal responsibility to get involved.
You may need to intervene in a neighbour dispute if the behaviour of a neighbour or their tenant is causing significant issues for the tenant renting your property. This may include the following situations:
While landlords are not always legally responsible for negotiating issues that arise between tenants and their neighbours, they can play a significant role in helping to resolve problems if they escalate.
If your tenant’s neighbour is the source of the issue, and a tenant, you might wonder how to contact their landlord. Handling the situation should involve:
If the tenant’s neighbour is the property owner, points 1,3 and 4 above also apply.
In these cases, deciding who is responsible for repairs and costs can be tricky. As a landlord, here's what you need to know:
If you, as a landlord, receive a complaint about your tenant, from a neighbour, it’s important to address the situation promptly and professionally:
In some cases, neighbour disputes can lead to physical damage, legal action, or prolonged void periods, all of which can be costly for landlords. This is where having the right landlord insurance in place becomes essential.
Steve Barnes, Head of Broking at Total Landlord, explains:
“Damage caused during a neighbour dispute can sometimes fall into a grey area, especially if it involves a tenant or their visitors. At Total Landlord, our Premier policy includes cover for malicious damage by tenants or their guests, which could help landlords recoup the cost of repairs in such cases. It’s always worth checking your policy details to understand exactly what you’re protected against.”
In addition to covering physical damage, landlord insurance can offer peace of mind in other ways. Legal expenses and rent protection insurance can help you manage the cost of dealing with tenant disputes, problem neighbours, or unexpected legal challenges. If a disagreement turns into a legal matter, such as pursuing an eviction or needing legal representation, having cover in place can help you avoid the financial and emotional strain of court proceedings.
You can learn more about Total Landlord’s legal expenses and rent protection insurance here.
Acting early, keeping records, and maintaining open lines of communication with all parties involved can help prevent conflicts from escalating.
If informal conversations or complaints haven’t resolved the issue, professional mediation can be a valuable next step. The Property Redress Tenancy Mediation Service offers landlords and tenants a structured, impartial way to address neighbour disputes without the stress or expense of legal proceedings.
Suzy Hershman, Resolution Department Lead at mydeposits and Property Redress, explains:
“Neighbour disputes can be incredibly stressful and emotionally charged. Mediation provides a confidential space for both sides to be heard, helping landlords and tenants reach a solution that works for everyone, without damaging the tenancy relationship.”
Whether you're dealing with a problematic neighbour or responding to complaints about your own tenant, mediation can offer a practical, cost-effective resolution - helping you maintain harmony and uphold your responsibilities as a landlord.”
For more insight into how Property Redress handles antisocial behaviour from neighbouring tenants, read this case study which highlights the need to resolve issues as quickly as possible and was resolved by early resolution.
While landlords are not always legally accountable for the actions of problem neighbours, they do have a duty of care to their tenants and a vested interest in maintaining a peaceful living environment. Taking neighbour complaints seriously, understanding your legal obligations, and acting promptly can go a long way in preventing disputes from escalating.
In situations where communication breaks down or damage occurs, having robust landlord insurance, including cover for malicious damage and legal expenses, can help protect your property and your income. And if matters become too complex to resolve informally, professional mediation offers a structured, impartial route to resolution.
Ultimately, being a proactive and informed landlord not only helps to safeguard your investment, it also helps to build positive relationships with tenants, neighbours, and fellow property owners.
