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House and home

Feeling trapped in my home

(60 Posts)
cornergran Tue 13-Mar-18 13:59:46

I recall your other posts, it’s such a shame you are still feeling so uncomfortable in your own home. If you haven’t done so perhaps it’s worth a chat with the CAB in case there are options with the HT. The Good Neighbour Agreement seemed and still seems inappropriate as you are an owner occupier. In any case it’s always good to feel someone is on your side. If you would like to live in a retirement property then why not carry on with your research, if you’d rather stay in your current home then it is definitely worth seeking advice. The only thing I would say is be careful if you are seriously considering selling as questions are asked about any neighbour disputes. I hope it works out for you and you can feel more relaxed soon.

Marieeliz Tue 13-Mar-18 13:48:56

Thanks for your suggestions. There is a shed and a garage dividing our backs, which are quite small we are a terrace. We also have a shared entry, although it is over my house. The front is the problem as it is a normal hedge. She and her dog hear when I open my back door.

I am thinking of moving and have made enquiries re a couple of retirement bungalows. It is all the hassle. The Housing Trust did come out when she had a party in October but when I refused to sign a "Good Neighbour Agreement. The HT walked away. I am an owner occupier. They seem to be only concerned re their tenants. Most of houses are owned here only a very few still HT occupied and unfortunately the one next door to me.

She is in her 50's has a well paid job and a very expensive car. The houses aren't expensive around her NWest don't know how she got on the list.

Oopsadaisy12 Tue 13-Mar-18 13:01:34

Fencing, hedging and a diary to record events, is the way to go, if you can.
I wouldn’t alter my times of doing things, it isn’t your problem if she is on nights.
Is there a neighbour on the other side of her? If so have a chat with them and see how they cope with her night work/days at home.

MissAdventure Tue 13-Mar-18 12:39:30

Is it feasible that you could move? Its absolutely horrible to have neighbours that put you on edge, so it may be worth considering.

glammanana Tue 13-Mar-18 12:32:45

Please be careful if you go down the fencing route check with your HT that you are allowed to do this without their permission.
I would try and change my hoovering time even though it would annoy me to do so .
If you do have any anti-social problems with your neighbours keep a record that you can pass to your HT if you need to in the future.

Mapleleaf Tue 13-Mar-18 12:30:12

Yes, possibly reversing a few things for a while might be helpful, e.g. go in the garden whilst she is still in bed (don't mow the grass then, though)! Then do your vacuuming whilst she's standing on her doorstep. The other suggestions of fencing and shrubbery are a good idea, too. Also, try to ignore her and this "relation", don't give eye contact or anything. Just go about your business - don't let them take over your life. Keep records of absolutely anything that is unsettling as a backup should you seek advice from the council, police, etc.

Lynnebo Tue 13-Mar-18 11:56:15

You definitely need to review the fencing between you both to give you privacy in the garden. I feel for you, it would be such a shame to have to move from the home you love. I think also you just have to adjust your routine to vacuum in the afternoon or early evening. I know you shouldn’t have to but just for the sake of peace? x

Bridgeit Tue 13-Mar-18 11:49:45

It’s is very upsetting when our own safe havens are invaded ,I thinking fencing may be the answer , good luck

farview Tue 13-Mar-18 11:47:01

Could you plant some fast growing shrubs to give you a little privacy? Or erect a higher fence of some sort?

Marieeliz Tue 13-Mar-18 11:21:58

I posted some months ago re trouble with a new neighbour. She was off work at the time and I though once she went back I would feel free during the day to do my garden etc. Unfortunately, she is there most of the day standing at the back door smoking. She seems to have returned to work on permanent nights 8 pm to 7.30 am. She sleeps till mid day then stands at the back door with her dog, who barks everytime I access my back garden and garage, my dog then barks back he does not normally bark.

I feel I cannot vacuum or do housework. When I vacuumed at 10 o'clock, one morning, the same night at 11.30 the relative who stays there overnight started to vacuum I felt in retaliation as he stays there and sleeps till mid day also.

I have lived here since the house was built 1960 but feel like moving as it is like being in a prison. She moved from a 4 bed HT to a two bed I don't know why she has this relation staying and don't know if the HT know.