Case study 1: A noise nuisance complaint that we resolved without legal action being taken

Background

David (name changed) reported late-night noise from his neighbour—mainly barking dogs and loud arguments. We opened an anti-social behaviour complaint so that we could investigate the allegations of noise nuisance.

Actions taken

In line with SYHA’s Anti-social Behaviour Policy, we contacted David within five working days. He was offered a home visit but David preferred phone contact. After reassurance about confidentiality, he consented for us to speak with his neighbour and we provided diary sheets for David to log any more incidents.

We spoke informally with his neighbour Tracy (name changed), who denied the allegations but was made aware of the concerns.

We also advised David to contact Environmental Services for further support, though he chose to wait unless issues escalated.

We contacted David every two weeks, in line with our policy, to check whether there had been any further noise nuisance.

David confirmed the dog barking had stopped, however, the arguing, shouting and swearing had continued. David had been completed the diary sheets providing dates and times of the incidents, and had recorded an argument on his mobile phone.

Based on David’s evidence and diary sheets, we were able to issue a written tenancy warning to Tracy explaining that we had received further complaints of anti-social behaviour with sufficient evidence to prove a breach of her tenancy agreement.

Outcome

Following the written tenancy warning, we continued to monitor the situation for a further four weeks, contacting David for updates during this timeframe.  David confirmed that the instances of noise nuisance had stopped and agreed that he would be happy for SYHA to close his anti-social behaviour complaint.

Case study 2: An ongoing noise nuisance complaint, which resulted in an eventual eviction

Background

Tina (name changed), an owner occupier, reported ongoing noise nuisance from her neighbour Kylie (name changed), including loud music, shouting, foul language, and suspected drug use. Initially limited to Saturday nights, the disturbances escalated to several nights a week, continuing into the early hours.

Actions taken

SYHA responded promptly with a home visit and provided Tina with diary sheets to log incidents. Tina also reported the issue to the Local Authority’s Environmental Services, enabling joint investigation. During SYHA’s visit, our colleagues experienced excessive noise firsthand and received audio recordings from Tina.

Kylie was issued a tenancy caution, but the behaviour continued. Environmental Services installed noise monitoring equipment, confirmed statutory nuisance, and served an abatement notice. Kylie breached this notice, leading to a court-approved seizure of electronic devices. Despite this, the noise persisted, resulting in prosecution and a substantial fine.

SYHA worked closely with Environmental Services and the Police throughout. Although drug-related concerns couldn’t be pursued due to lack of evidence, the noise complaints were thoroughly addressed.

Outcome

With strong evidence and legal support, SYHA secured a breach of tenancy injunction. Kylie violated the injunction, leading to a possession order and eventual eviction. The case lasted 17 months, with all agencies taking proportionate action throughout.