Being A Good Neighbour
Unfortunately, over the last few years there has been an increase in
cases of neighbourhood disputes. Some are minor and others are more serious.
The aim of this article is to give some 'common sense` advice to help
avoid this kind of problem.
- Moving into a new home is always a busy time and initially can be
quite disruptive for you and your neighbours as you are busy decorating,
moving furniture and belongings in.
- Once you have settled in, it's always a good idea to introduce yourself
to your neighbours and check if anything you are doing is causing
a nuisance. There are things that we can do in our homes so as to
minimise disturbance to our neighbours.
- Please don't play music loudly, especially after 11 o'clock at night.
It could be keeping your neighbour and / or their children awake.
- Please avoid banging doors closed, especially at nighttime.
- Remember that in the summertime when windows are open noise travels
more easily.

If you plan to have a party at some time it might be a good idea to
advise your neighbours or invite them, then they won't be disturbed
unnecessarily.
Children need to play but, if you have children please encourage them
not to play ball games where it is likely to cause disruption to neighbours.
Pets
If you keep pets you need to consider your neighbours, particularly
if you have a dog.
- Never allow your dog to roam free, especially where children play.
- Always ensure that if your dog is in the garden that it can't get
out.
- Don't leave your dog locked up or chained up all day if it barks.
Barking dogs can cause a lot of annoyance to neighbours.
- If you work you need to ensure that your dog is adequately cared
for during the day.
- There is a new law, which means that all dog owners must clean up
after their dog if it fouls in a public place. Get into the "clean
up" habit wherever you go.
- Please remember that in some types of property it is against your
conditions of tenancy to keep a dog or cat.
And finally: Litter, rubbish, overgrown gardens etc. often annoy
people and build up resentments. Please try and keep your area clean
and tidy.

If your neighbour does something that offends you, don't go 'BATTY', have
a quiet word with them about it.
Most people will respond well to this as often we don't even realise that
we are doing something that is causing a problem.
If the problem continues or it becomes more serious then please contact
your local housing office. Your complaint will be investigated and you
will be advised of any action that can be taken to resolve the situation.
If you reside in the Borough of Doncaster, South Yorkshire, then you
will no doubt have a local Tenants' & Residents' Association near
by.
They are there to help you.
And also
The Doncaster Federation Of Tenants' & Residents' Associations, who is only a phone call or email away?
Tel: (01302) 737490
Fax: (01302) 341620
email: Doncaster Federation
Doncaster Federation,
The Haywood Room,
Council House,
College Road,
Doncaster,
South Yorkshire.
DN1 3AJ
Tel: (01302) 737490
Fax: (01302) 341620 © Diogenese