A squabble between neighbours has resulted in one homeowner removing a fence of the house next door.
The feud began when the neighbour built a fence over the property line through the woman's garden. After refusing her "civil" request to move the fence, she took things into their own hands.
As a result, a TikTok video shows the frustrated homeowners tearing down the neighbour's fence themselves, plank by plank. While this is an extreme example, it is quite common to have run-ins with people next door.
Some neighbours help you feel more connected to the world around you. However, some can bring tension and conflict to our lives.
But living in harmony can be difficult if you don't even know who lives beside you. According to Aviva, one in every ten UK residents know none of their neighbours, despite the fact that 50% of UK residents wish to get to know their neighbours better.
Sophie Birkert, exterior designer and founder of Screen with Envy , recalls her experiences with exterior decorating with privacy in mind - and has shared her "Dos and Don'ts" for handling neighbours while being a good neighbour yourself.
Neighbours Dos and Don'ts
Do: Be friendly and welcoming.
Being a friendly neighbour can get you help with odd-jobs, such as cleaning up leaves, shovelling snow, or picking up something you need during their weekly shop. They’ll also be more likely to contact you if they see anything odd around your house.
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When heading to the shops, a smile or pausing for a moment to talk on your way out the door is a low effort way to make friendships.
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Welcome any new movers. You can offer your contact details to welcome them for emergencies.
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If a neighbour goes out of their way to help you, show your appreciation with a nice gesture, like a card or flowers as a thank-you.
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Join a neighbourhood group. In meetings, you can get to know the community and upcoming events. If none are available, apps like "Nextdoor" work just as well.
Don’t: Be the noisy neighbour.
Noisy neighbours can make it hard to get a good night's sleep. Many people are unaware of the ruckus they’re making when on a phone call, or have the habit of slamming doors.
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Be mindful of the time of day when making noise. For example, don't mow your lawn before the sun comes up or play loud music after 10 p.m.
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There are noises beyond our control, like children crying or dogs barking. In this case, warn any new neighbours of your situation and hope they’re understanding. Or, in extreme cases, consider investing in sound-absorbing insulation.
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Ask visitors to park only in front of your house or driveway, not your neighbours', . This will also help keep the roads tidy.
DO: Politely ward off nosy neighbours.
You shouldn't feel pressured to give out information you’re not comfortable with, particularly to an overly curious neighbour.
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Address the problem firmly and fairly, opening the space for a mature conversation. Communicate exactly how you feel and what you’ve noticed, avoiding accusatory comments..
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If you’d prefer to avoid any awkward conversations or confrontations, decorative fences are a visually appealing way to give you privacy.
Don’t: Let your garden run wild
Even the most sympathetic neighbours can become irritated by a consistently messy yard in the neighbourhood.
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Mowing the lawn, trimming any overgrown shrubs, and tending to your plantings are the simple foundations that will keep any street-proud neighbours at bay.
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Screen planters for floral arrangements can help with both maintenance and outdoor decoration, if you want a little extra flourish.
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Avoid dumping rubbish or other unwanted items in your yard, which will detract from the appearance of your neighbourhood and likely upset your neighbours too.
Do: Be considerate with pets.
We know you adore your pet, and worrying that your neighbour isn't pleased with it can be stressful. This can be avoided if you are mindful of your pet.
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The standard is to always pick up after your dog, of course. But mishaps happen. Keeping spare doggie bags in your bag can avoid any forgetful days.
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Respect the wishes of any neighbour who doesn't want to interact with your pet without judgement - there could be a fear or allergy involved.
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Get to know other pet owners in the area. They can give you a heads-up about how the community feels about outdoor cats, or which neighbour complains the most about dogs barking.
Don’t: Be afraid to complain.
If you feel strongly about something, such as constant loud music or someone yelling into the late hours, you’re entitled to speak up.
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Is it abandoned rubbish? Lack of concern for property? You'll handle the situation better if you can figure out the root of the issue and structure your argument from there.
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Speak directly and calmly to your neighbour. If it's a garden issue, gently remind them of outdoor maintenance and ask them to handle it. It may be tough for them to change their behaviour, but when they do, everyone will be happier.
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If that doesn't work, file a complaint with your local council's complaint staff. Specify for noise complaints, welfare concerns, and so on. If all else fails, or the behaviour is illegal or threatening, contact the local police.
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