Antisocial behaviour

A wide variety of behaviour can be defined as 'anti-social' if it has a negative impact on others. Below are some explanations of terms which are used for different types of behaviour.

Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) has a number of causes which often fit into the categories below:

Nuisance describes behaviour on private property that is lawful but causes inconvenience or annoyance for neighbours. Those affected by "nuisance" behaviour can bring civil proceedings against their neighbour and may be able to obtain compensation.

Harassment is a criminal offence which involves the repeated targeting of a victim with behaviour that is meant to upset them.

Criminal Offences - Some problems, such as vandalism and drug dealing, are often described as antisocial behaviour but are, in fact, criminal offences.

There are some types of behaviour, that may annoy some people, but that we would generally not consider to be antisocial behaviour. Examples include:

• The sound of children playing or a baby crying.
• Boundary disputes or breaches of covenants.
• Noise caused by everyday living, such as flushing toilets and closing doors.
• A one-off party.
• Minor personal arguments and differences.
• Religious or cultural practice.
• Parking (including badly parked vehicles).
• Neighbours doing DIY (at reasonable times of the day).
• Groups of people in the street or in parks, unless they are being rowdy, abusive, causing damage or committing other crimes.

We have produced advice on how to deal with anti-social behaviour. It includes a list of useful contacts and advice on:

• Steps that you can take
• Where you can get help
• Support that is available for victims.

Antisocial Behaviour Guidance (PDF, 2 MB)