There has been an increase of two thirds in complaints arising from problem neighbours over the last two years, according to research commissioned by Halifax Home Insurance. This marks a stark change in direction from the improvements that had been made over the previous decade.

The research was carried out on behalf of Halifax by FDS International. Data was used from the British Household Panel Survey (BHPS) from 1996 to 2007, and the same questions were then asked for their own survey.

The study revealed that one-in-five homeowners have had serious issues with their neighbours over the past two years, a figure of 17%. The last time that the figure was so high was back in 1997.

The most common complaints being reported by neighbours were:

  • excessive noise, at the top of the list with 49% of complaints
  • rude and intimidating behaviour with 23%
  • the crossing of legal boundaries, such as building fences and walls on land not belonging to them, at 20%

The research also suggested that financial concerns could be contributing to the problem. As unemployment is currently on the rise, more people are staying at home, leading to more arguments and confrontations between neighbours.

Another possible problem is that since the beginning of the recession, 300,000 more people are renting accommodation. When there are more people on short-term leases, this generally leads to a higher level of complaints.

Another problem that was highlighted was the illegal dumping of rubbish on neighbours’ property. This can partly be blamed on the cutbacks being made to refuse collections in certain areas. The cost to UK residents arising from this damage amounted to about £3 billion last year.

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