In 2025 we signed the national ASB Help Pledge, to promise that ASB will be taken seriously, made easier to report and tackled in partnership.
We aim to resolve anti-social behaviour as early as possible using practical, non-legal approaches. If the behaviour is serious or continues, we can take legal action. These steps can take time, and we follow a set process to make sure any action we take is fair and evidence-based.
Where it is safe and appropriate, some issues can be resolved directly between neighbours. In many cases this is the quickest way to resolve problems before formal action is needed. If this isn’t possible, or the behaviour continues, we can step in and take further action.
What to expect
Some issues cannot be resolved immediately because we need to:
Early action
These are often the first steps we take to address issues quickly:
- Warning letters
- Office interviews
- Home visits
Non-legal action
These approaches are used to set clear expectations and help resolve issues without going to court:
- Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABCs)
A voluntary agreement that sets clear boundaries to prevent further incidents. - Voluntary undertakings
An informal agreement between those involved to address the behaviour. - Good neighbour agreements
Agreements between residents on acceptable behaviour, for example not playing loud music late at night. - Mediation or restorative justice
An independent, facilitated conversation to help both sides reach an agreement.
Legal action
If the behaviour is serious or does not improve, we may take legal action:
- Notice of Seeking Possession (Section 8 NOSP)
A formal notice that we may take steps to end a tenancy. - Possession orders
We can apply to the court for a decision, which may include ending the tenancy. - Injunctions
Court orders that require someone to stop certain behaviour. In urgent cases, these can be applied for without notice. - Power of arrest
This can be attached to an injunction where there is a risk of harm. - Undertakings
A formal promise made in court to stop certain behaviour. - Breaches of court orders
If an injunction or undertaking is broken, we can return to court. This can result in a fine or imprisonment.
ASB Case Review
If you have reported anti–social behaviour and are not happy with how your reports have been handled by an agency, for example, GCH, the police or the council, you have the right to request an Anti–Social Behaviour Case Review.