Homeowners and tenants often approach James Gibb to raise concerns they have about communal living and antisocial behaviour.
Antisocial behaviour - by definition
Antisocial behaviour can surface in many forms and is defined at Section 143 – Antisocial Behaviour etc. (Scotland) Act 2004 as (a)acts in a manner that causes or is likely to cause alarm or distress; or (b)pursues a course of conduct that causes or is likely to cause alarm or distress, to at least one person who is not of the same household. Examples of antisocial behaviour are noise disruption, verbal abuse, vandalism, graffiti, fly-tipping, littering etc.
Actions that can be taken
As your Factor, James Gibb have limited powers to control this type of behaviour. Where possible, we can attempt to enforce the Deed of Conditions, but what more can you do as a homeowner or tenant?
- You can approach your neighbour to discuss your concerns, where you feel comfortable doing so.
- If the antisocial behaviour is a noise complaint, you can contact the Local Council.
- If you are unsure what your next steps are, you can contact Citizens Advice Scotland for advice on how best to manage a situation.
- Should the antisocial behaviour constitute a criminal offence, you can report this to the police.
Communal living has many benefits, the main one being a sense of community, however antisocial behaviour is one of the biggest challenges and can have a detrimental impact on those involved.
Impartial information on communal living
You can access further information on antisocial behaviour at Under One Roof. This organisation provides impartial information on all aspects of communal living.
Find out more about Police Scotland Antisocial Behaviour Standard Operating Procedure
James Gibb doing it the right way
