Managing problems with neighbours

Call 999 to report a crime that is in progress or if someone is in immediate danger. For non-emergencies, call 101.

We want to help neighbours get on well together. 

Being a good neighbour

As a good neighbour, you should treat others with respect. This means:

  • keeping noise levels reasonable, especially at night
  • keeping your home and garden tidy 
  • respecting shared spaces
  • trying to resolve small disagreements calmly and politely

You can also download or view our good neighbour postcard.

Common issues with neighbours 

Some behaviours are considered normal and are not treated as antisocial behaviour. 

These include: 

  • children playing in their home, garden or communal areas at reasonable times of the day
  • people being inconsiderate or thoughtless
  • a baby crying
  • cooking smells
  • people doing DIY at a reasonable time of the day
  • people smoking in their own home
  • dogs barking now and again
  • occasional parties
  • use of skateboards or bikes
  • minor personal difference such as fall outs between children
  • clashes of lifestyles including cultural differences
  • use of unallocated parking spaces

Issues like these may be upsetting or frustrating, but they usually do not count as antisocial behaviour.

You can see a full list of issues that are not considered antisocial behaviour in our Good Neighbour Management Policy.

Resolving disputes

If you have a problem with your neighbour, try talking to them first. Often a friendly chat or a polite letter can fix minor problems. 

If this does not work, you should ask a friend or mediator to help. 

We can also ask you and your neighbour to sign a Good Neighbour Agreement. This is a voluntary agreement where both sides agree on respectful behaviour.

If the issue cannot be resolved informally, our housing team can help and will support anyone in difficulty. 

Get a mediator to help

You can contact Mediation Surrey which is free for all Surrey residents. 

Go to Mediation Surrey

Get support from us

You can contact us for advice.

Telephone: 01483 755 855
Monday to Friday, 9am to 1pm (except public holidays)
Email: community.safety@woking.gov.uk

Reporting serious problems

If you encounter serious problems such as hate incidents, threats or persistent harassment, report them to us or the police.

There are different ways to report:

Other sources of help

If you need help, you can also contact charities that offer advice, including: