Selling a house with noisy neighbours?
Find out what is unreasonable noise & how this can affect your sale
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How to deal with noisy neighbours?
What is classed as a dispute with neighbours? How they can sabotage your house sale
Intrigued? Read on to discover everything you need to know about selling your house with noisy neighbours, and more.
Want to deal with your nuisance neighbours fast and prevent them from sabotaging your house sale? Use the menu below to find the answers you need FAST!
What is classed as unreasonable noise from neighbours
When considering what constitutes unreasonable noise from neighbours when wanting to sell a house, it is essential to assess the situation objectively and in accordance with local laws and regulations.
Unreasonable noise typically refers to excessive, persistent, or disruptive sounds that significantly interfere with the peaceful enjoyment of one's property.
This can include but is not limited to continuous loud music, frequent late-night parties, persistent shouting or arguing, excessive barking from pets, or any other noise that unreasonably disrupts the quiet and peaceful environment expected within a residential area.
To determine whether noise levels are unreasonable, it is advisable to consult local ordinances, homeowners association rules, or any applicable noise regulations set forth by the municipality.
These regulations often specify acceptable noise levels during different times of the day, such as daytime and night-time hours, and may provide specific decibel limits or guidelines. Additionally, the duration, frequency, and impact of the noise on the surrounding properties will also be considered in evaluating whether it qualifies as unreasonable.
If you are experiencing noise-related issues with your neighbours, it is recommended to document the instances of excessive noise, including dates, times, and details of each incident.
This documentation can be helpful when discussing the matter with local authorities, homeowners associations, or legal professionals. Seeking advice from an attorney or a real estate professional experienced in handling such matters can provide you with specific guidance tailored to your jurisdiction and help you understand your rights and potential remedies, including disclosing the issue to potential buyers when selling the property.
It is important to note that laws and regulations regarding noise may vary significantly depending on your jurisdiction, so seeking professional legal advice specific to your situation is crucial to fully understand the options available to you when dealing with noisy, nuisance, or problem neighbours during the process of selling a house.
How to sell your property with bad neighbours?
Nuisance neighbours are never the most pleasant issue to run into, especially when selling a house.
You can have your onward purchase all sorted, haggle for a good price and even pick out your solicitor, but if your house won't sell because of nuisance neighbours, then that all becomes irrelevant.
There’s nothing more frustrating when selling a house than to have viewings which on the surface appear to go great.
Only to find that they always seem to come with the same caveat - a reference to your problem neighbours.
You know the type: "We really liked the house, BUT we just couldn't live with the noise from next door" or "The house is positioned perfectly for us, HOWEVER rude neighbours are one thing that we can't put up with".
When you consider that each of these viewings is a potential buyer who's effectively being shooed away, it can really start to get on your nerves. Especially when it's because of something that's more or less out of your control.
Nevertheless, that doesn't mean that if you have noisy neighbours, selling your house is impossible. In fact, there's a couple of ways in which you can do so.
Is selling a house with noisy neighbours common?
Don't be fooled into thinking that it's just you selling a house with problem neighbours - it's actually more common than you may think.
A poll by the Metro revealed that 60% of Brits have experienced a dispute with their neighbours. Not exactly great news for buyers, but nevertheless reassuring for any sellers.
Problem neighbours have been brought to the forefront now more than ever thanks to changes brought on from the pandemic.
Not only have noise complaints to local councils risen since the pandemic, but it has also ushered in a new age of online house viewings.
Whilst previously, clever timing means you may be able to have planned ahead and booked viewings when they were at work, out shopping or on holiday, with online viewings buyers are much more likely to experience life inside your house while your nuisance neighbours are at home.
This is a factor that could heavily decrease you chance of clinching that all important sale, fast.
And even though any potential buyers are liable to do their own research, there are often issues that they won't be able to find out about.
These could be less noise related issues, but nevertheless still products of nuisance neighbours. We're talking about things like disputes over boundaries, the height of a hedge or whether a neighbour is prone to being abusive.
The type of discrepancies that you MUST inform a buyer of before you agree a sale, otherwise it can come back to haunt you down the line.
What is classed as a dispute with neighbours?
In the context of UK property, a dispute with neighbours refers to a situation where conflicts arise between individuals or households residing in close proximity, often due to various issues caused by problem neighbours.
Problem neighbours can manifest in different ways, including excessive noise, boundary disputes, anti-social behaviour, disputes over parking or shared amenities, or any other behaviour that significantly impacts the peaceful enjoyment of one's property.
It is important to address such disputes promptly and consider various options to resolve them, such as open communication, mediation services, involving local authorities or relevant housing associations, and seeking legal advice if necessary to protect your rights and find a satisfactory resolution.
Understanding local laws and regulations, particularly those related to noise, property boundaries, and anti-social behaviour, can provide valuable guidance when navigating a dispute with problem neighbours in the UK.
Do I have to disclose noisy neighbours when selling a house?
It's a legal requirement for you to disclose noisy neighbours or details of any other disputes when selling a house.
You do so on the property information form (the TA6) at the start of the conveyancing process. 'Forget' about this minor amendment to your paperwork and it could come back to haunt you.
In the case you didn't clearly state what disputes were ongoing, you could later be subject to legal action.
So, for instance, if you fail to disclose information such as the neighbours host a party every Friday until 3am and your property's new owner understandably feels cheated, then they can claim misrepresentation.
What that means is they're claiming that you have mis-sold the property. They would be able to claim that if they'd have known about the ongoing disputes, they wouldn't have put such a generous offer forward or even offered at all. If, upon further investigation it becomes clear that you did know about the disturbances, then you could be liable to repay them a form of compensation.
This could be a sum of money to compensate for the property's drop in market value, or the value of other losses they've occurred as a result of the nuisance neighbours. This includes any criminal damage or physical abuse.
Thankfully, not all cases of nuisance neighbours are quite SO serious. The majority are usually small discrepancies like the noise of a pet or a debate over a fence boundary, which can usually be straightened out, even if it does take a bit of squabbling.
Plus, if the new owners are a source of disturbance themselves, they can't really come back to you to complain about the noise level. Nevertheless, to cover yourself, we'd always advise you're open and honest when selling a house with noisy neighbours, so nothing can come back to bite you further down the line.
Will noisy neighbours affect the selling price of my home?
When it comes to selling a property, noisy neighbours can potentially impact the selling price. Buyers generally prefer properties that offer a peaceful and quiet living environment.
If your home is consistently subjected to excessive noise from neighbouring properties, it may be perceived as less desirable by potential buyers. The presence of noisy neighbours can give the impression of a disruptive or unpleasant living environment, potentially deterring buyers or leading them to negotiate for a lower price.
However, the extent to which noisy neighbours affect the selling price can vary depending on several factors.
These include the severity and frequency of the noise, the local real estate market conditions, the overall appeal of your property, and the level of demand from potential buyers. In some cases, buyers may be willing to overlook the issue if the property's other features and attributes outweigh the noise concern.
To mitigate the impact of noisy neighbours on the selling price, there are a few steps you can consider. Firstly, you may want to address the issue directly with your neighbours, if possible, in an attempt to resolve or minimise the noise problem.
Additionally, you can disclose the presence of noisy neighbours to potential buyers and provide any relevant documentation or evidence of your efforts to address the situation.
It is advisable to consult with a local estate agent who has experience in your area, as they can provide valuable insights into the potential impact of noisy neighbours on your property's selling price and offer guidance on the best approach to market your home effectively.
My neighbours sabotaging my house sale
In the case that your neighbour is purposely sabotaging your house sale, there's actually very little you can do.
Whether they're purposefully making noise to disrupt your viewings, trespassing or heckling at viewers as they leave, you'll require strong evidence of this sabotage to get anywhere legally. Exactly why we'd always suggest that before you do anything, you first play detective.
"I know that for whatever reason you're not my biggest fan, but if you could stop sabotaging my house sale that would be great. Help me move and I'll be out of hair far quicker - it's the best for both of us.".
If after this they persist, then you could sue for damages, although it will be hard to prove. You'd need solid evidence that it's lost you a sale and would need the potential buyers to testify on your behalf.
Trying to resolve problems with noisy neighbours before selling
When preparing to sell a property, it is generally advisable to try and resolve any problems with noisy neighbours beforehand. Addressing the issue proactively can help create a more appealing and marketable property for potential buyers. Here are some steps you can take to resolve problems with noisy neighbours:
1. Open communication
Start by having a polite and respectful conversation with your neighbours about the noise issue. Clearly explain how the noise is affecting you and your intention to sell the property. They may not be aware of the impact their actions are having on you, and they might be willing to make changes or find a compromise.
2. Mediation
If direct communication does not yield satisfactory results, you can consider mediation services. Mediators act as neutral third parties and facilitate discussions between you and your neighbours to find mutually acceptable solutions. Mediation can often help in reaching a resolution without escalating the situation or straining relationships.
3. Local Authorities or Housing Associations
If informal attempts fail, you may need to involve local authorities or housing associations. Contact your local council's environmental health department or housing association, depending on the nature of the noise issue. They have the authority to investigate noise complaints and enforce any applicable noise regulations.
4. Document Incidents
Keep a record of instances of excessive noise, including dates, times, and details of each incident. This documentation can be valuable evidence if you need to involve authorities or provide information to potential buyers regarding your efforts to address the problem.
5. Seek Legal Advice
If the noise issue persists and efforts to resolve it are unsuccessful, you may need to seek legal advice. An attorney experienced in property and neighbour-related disputes can provide guidance on your rights and potential legal actions that can be taken to address the noise issue.
Remember, resolving problems with noisy neighbours before selling your property can enhance its marketability and potentially minimize any negative impact on the selling price.
Engaging in open communication, seeking mediation if necessary, involving local authorities or housing associations, documenting incidents, and seeking legal advice when needed are all steps that can help you in your efforts to resolve noise-related problems before selling your property.
Can't sell house because of neighbours - what do I do?
Selling a house is a task in itself, never mind selling a house with noisy neighbours. Not only is it another hurdle for you to negotiate, but it can also be a HUGE deterrent for potential buyers. So with this in mind, here's three ways to deal with nuisance neighbours...
Stick it out
While it can be frustrating hosting unsuccessful viewing after unsuccessful viewing, the right buyer will eventually come along - all you have to do is wait.
This could be as short as next week or may still be a couple of years down the line. The average house in the UK is 'For Sale' for seven weeks before it receives an offer (The Advisory), so you can expect a property with nuisance neighbours to take at least that to sell, probably far longer.
Drop the price
This is a tactic we'd avoid using straight away, although it can help maintain good interest in your property. As we all know, a low-priced house is usually a magnet for all sorts of investors. In this case we’ll say buy-to-let in particular, as they're not going to be the ones living there.
So, anything like a neighbour dispute isn't really that much of an issue for them, providing they can get it tenanted of course. However, it's worth remembering that lowering the price does draw attention to the fact there's a form of dispute going on.
Take court action
If your house has been on the market for a good chunk of time and you've got strong evidence to suggest that your nuisance neighbours are the cause of it not selling, then court action may be a viable route for you.
Just bear in mind that this route does come at a cost. If that cost is greater than what you'd be losing on your house, you may be best just recouping your losses and moving on.
How to find out about neighbour disputes?
When considering a property and wanting to find out about neighbour disputes, it is crucial to gather relevant information to make an informed decision. Here are some steps you can take:
1. Research and Observation
Start by conducting research on the property and its surrounding area. Pay attention to any news articles, online forums, or local community websites that might mention disputes or issues with neighbours. Additionally, take the time to observe the neighbourhood during different times of the day to get a sense of the general atmosphere.
2. Talk to the Seller or Estate Agent
Engage in open communication with the seller or the estate agent representing the property. Ask direct questions about any known disputes with neighbours. While they may not be legally obliged to disclose such information, it is in their interest to provide honest and transparent information to potential buyers.
3. Local Authority Records
Contact the local authority, such as the planning or environmental health department, and inquire if there have been any complaints or disputes registered concerning the property or neighbouring properties. They may be able to provide you with relevant information or direct you to the appropriate channels to gather more details.
4. Speak with Neighbours
If feasible, consider talking to the neighbours directly, especially those living closest to the property you are interested in. They may have insights into any past or ongoing disputes that can help you assess the situation. Approach them politely and respectfully, explaining your interest in the property and your desire to learn more about the neighbourhood.
5. Professional Property Searches
Engaging a professional property search company or solicitor can help uncover any legal disputes or issues related to the property. They can conduct searches for any ongoing or historic neighbour disputes, boundary disputes, or legal proceedings that might affect the property or its surrounding area.
6. Legal Advice
If you have serious concerns about potential neighbour disputes, seeking legal advice from a property solicitor is advisable. They can guide you through the legal aspects of gathering information, assess any potential risks, and provide insights into the impact of neighbour disputes on the property you intend to purchase.
Remember that while these steps can provide valuable information, they may not guarantee a comprehensive understanding of all potential neighbour disputes.
It is essential to use multiple sources and exercise due diligence when researching and assessing the situation. Consulting with professionals and legal advisors will help you make informed decisions based on the specific circumstances surrounding the property and its neighbourhood.
How to deal with neighbour disputes before selling your house?
Dealing with problem neighbours requires a proactive approach to address and resolve the issues. Open communication is key, where you should engage in respectful conversations to express concerns and find common ground.
If direct communication fails, consider mediation as a means to facilitate constructive dialogue and reach a mutually agreeable resolution. Understanding your rights and documenting incidents can provide support if further action is needed.
Involving local authorities or relevant agencies may be necessary if informal attempts are unsuccessful, and seeking legal advice from a property solicitor experienced in dispute resolution can provide guidance on navigating the situation effectively while ensuring a peaceful living environment for all parties involved.
Why do problem neighbours affect the selling price of my home?
Problem neighbours can have an impact on the selling price of your home due to several factors. First and foremost, potential buyers prioritise a peaceful and harmonious living environment when searching for a property.
Problem neighbours, who engage in disruptive or unpleasant behaviour, can create a negative impression and deter buyers from considering your home as their ideal choice.
The presence of ongoing issues, such as excessive noise, anti-social behaviour, or boundary disputes, can raise concerns about the quality of life and potential conflicts that buyers may have to endure.
As a result, buyers may negotiate for a lower price to compensate for the perceived inconvenience or risk associated with problem neighbours. It is important to address and resolve these issues before selling your home to enhance its marketability and maintain its value in the eyes of potential buyers.
Seeking legal advice and utilizing appropriate channels to mitigate the impact of problem neighbours can help protect your property's selling price and ensure a smoother transaction process.
Should you go to a solicitor about noisy neighbours?
A solicitor can help you understand your rights and obligations in relation to the noise issue, as well as any applicable local laws or regulations.
They can guide you on how to effectively address the problem, including potential avenues for legal recourse if necessary. A solicitor can also assist in communicating with the neighbour, drafting formal letters, or initiating legal proceedings on your behalf.
Engaging a solicitor can provide you with a strategic advantage and ensure that you navigate the legal aspects of dealing with noisy neighbours effectively. They will help you make informed decisions, protect your interests, and work towards a satisfactory resolution.
The secret to selling your house with noisy neighbours FAST
A solicitor can help you understand your rights and obligations in relation to the noise issue, as well as any applicable local laws or regulations.
They can guide you on how to effectively address the problem, including potential avenues for legal recourse if necessary. A solicitor can also assist in communicating with the neighbour, drafting formal letters, or initiating legal proceedings on your behalf.
Engaging a solicitor can provide you with a strategic advantage and ensure that you navigate the legal aspects of dealing with noisy neighbours effectively. They will help you make informed decisions, protect your interests, and work towards a satisfactory resolution.
Staying on the market
The most obvious of the lot would be to stay on the open market and hope for the best. Not exactly what you'd call a strategy, but nevertheless still an option should you wish to give it some more time.
One of the biggest advantages to selling through an estate agent is that they will oversee all of the aspects of the sale, including creating a listing for your property and advertising it for you.
However, sticking to this route means you'll have no guarantee of how long your property will take to sell. Neither will you be able to gauge what price you'll achieve. Remember your asking price is called your 'asking' price for a good reason. Plus, if you do finally sell, you'll have an agent's fee to foot as well as all your legal expenses.
Go to auction
For problem property like ones with nuisance neighbours, the auction house tends to be a popular place, and you can see why. Buyers bid at their own risk and there's also a chance your property could go for more than you expected. Although that's just a chance - there's a chance that could happen with an agent too, but it rarely does.
Hence why many in the industry liken going to auction as taking a gamble, as there's also an equal chance your property won't sell too. It also pays to remember that just like agents, auctions aren't fee-free. You have a marketing fee, listing fee as well as commission to pay if your property does sell. All costs well worth bearing in mind.
An alternative route
Don't let a neighbours anti-social behaviour stop you from selling your home. Here at The Property Buying Company, we have a solution that is fast, reliable and fee-free.
As we are one of the UK's leading cash buyers of property means that we can free your from your neighbour dispute in just 7-days! That's right, within a week you could be selling your house quickly and leaving it all behind!
Our team boast well over 50 years of experience purchasing property and are equipped with all the skills necessary to get you out of a neighbour dispute FAST.
We only require one quick viewing to make sure that our cash offer is accurate and as we are a genuine cash buyer, once you have accepted our offer that is the amount that you will get in FULL in your bank!
We are also a member of the National Association of Property Buyers and The Property Ombudsman, as well as being rated excellent on TrustPilot, with over 1000 reviews, allowing you to feel safe in our hands. Plus, we'll cover all your legal fees and the cost of your surveys too.
So, if you are ready to put your problems with neighbours behind you, give us a call or fill in our online form for a free, no-obligation CASH offer which we could have in your bank as soon as you choose…
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