While we spend most of our time at home during the Christmas holidays, there are still ways we can annoy the outside world.
One of these ways is by pissing off our neighbours with our horribly annoying Christmas habits.
It seems one in five Brits complain about their neighbours, especially around Christmas time.
And now Lifestyle brand Housetastic has shared the top causes of festive neighbourhood disputes.
Noisy neighbours
At Christmas – when things can get rowdy in house settings – it’s no surprise that neighbours can get irritated. When this happens, it’s necessary to be reasonable and determine if festive noise from neighbours is temporary or long term. If so, simple sound proofing measures such as rearranging furniture or adding rugs to a room can work to reduce incoming noise.
If these don’t work, have a conversation with your neighbours. More often than not, they may not be aware they can be heard. Meanwhile, if the situation doesn’t ease, contact your local council who will investigate and determine whether there is a case.
Parking issues
Three quarters of drivers admit that they have conflict with neighbours over where they park.
If a neighbour blocks the entrance to your property or driveway, this is against the Highway code. Speaking with your neighbour directly is the best way to assess the situation.
If neighbours don’t cooperate or perhaps you don’t know who the vehicle belongs to, contact your local council as they will be able to find out who the car belongs to and move it if necessary.
Party central
If your neighbours are enjoying a party hub over the festive season, it can become incredibly frustrating. While it’s not illegal to host a party and play music loudly late at night (aside from any Covid restrictions), if it is a regular occurrence then it can count as anti-social behaviour which can be reported to the council.
If you are the neighbour doing the hosting, it’s best to talk to those next door prior to the party starting. You can even take steps to help soundproof your home. Suitable DIY methods are easy and budget friendly. These include placing wall coverings or even thick blankets on walls shared with neighbours.
Resident illuminations
Decorations and lights are part of the Christmas parcel for many UK houses. However, exterior options can annoy neighbours.
According to Google Trend data, the search term ‘my neighbours Christmas lights’ has seen a 9,900% uplift in searches within the last month alone. This suggests that residents are growing annoyed by their neighbours’ lights.
The reason for this could be light pollution.
Waste not want not
Christmas produces substantial waste and an estimated 1.13 million of fly-tipping incidents have been reported for 2021. This is an increase of 16% on last year. Fly-tipping is any disposal of household waste on a land not licensed for waste disposal and is illegal, whether it is in a wood or in someone else’s back garden. If this is happening on your property, report it to your local council immediately. By doing this, they will organise the removal of the litter and fine the culprits if the rubbish can be traced.
Arguments are a-go
Christmas is prime time for family feuding and disputes and sometimes this can spill over into the ears of next door. Google searches for neighbours arguing has seen a 9900% increase in searches in the last month, with many blaming the pressures of the festive season as causing extra stress on relationships.
However, if this is consistent, it can be become increasingly frustrating and annoying.
If this is the case then try talking to your neighbour if you feel safe and comfortable doing so. Mediation services can also be used if disputes continue, Although mediation services aren’t free, they are cheaper than taking legal action and are able to quickly solve any issues.
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