Neighbourhood

Neighbourhood Mediations

Neighbourhood disagreements, and property disputes including those between tenants and landlords, are a very frequent occurrence, and we have a wealth of experience in mediating between parties affected by them. Common causes of tension include noise, boundary disputes, shared facilities like pathways, gardens and car parks, maintenance of fences and hedgerows, blockage of light, damage caused to property by neighbouring trees (such as roots growing under the property) and disagreements over deposits.

In some circumstances, these disagreements can escalate into a full-scale dispute which, despite best efforts, cannot be resolved by the parties themselves. Disputes between neighbours are often highly distressing and emotive, and are best dealt with sensitively.

Litigation can prove costly, protracted and uncertain. Often the “legal” position is unclear (it is difficult to say when “ordinary” noise from neighbours rises to becomes an actionable nuisance, boundaries are often difficult to establish from the title deeds, a neighbouring tree or hedgerow may block your light, but you cannot cut it down, etc.). It is therefore always best to try to resolve neighbourhood disputes amicably.

As mediators we remain completely impartial about any issue you may have with your neighbour. We listen to both sides, but will not judge or adjudicate – we are there to facilitate a solution which both parties are comfortable with and can agree to. The mediation process is completely confidential which can assist in protecting the privacy of the parties, and in preserving relationships with other neighbours.

If the mediation is successful, both parties will agree to a settlement which respects their interests, so they are far more likely to stick to it and not to relapse. In some cases, the breakdown in communications between neighbours can be restored.

@CogentMediation