Anti-social behaviour
Anti-social behaviour (ASB) is conduct by a tenant, or their visitors, that causes or is likely to cause harassment, alarm or distress to others, or seriously interferes with the peace and comfort of neighbours. Examples include persistent loud noise, threats or harassment, criminal activity, serious neglect of the property, and repeated nuisance such as rubbish, parties or drug use.
ASB is both a neighbourhood issue and a compliance and risk issue. You are not the police or the council, but you are expected to take reasonable, prompt steps when credible complaints arise, for example:
Acknowledging and recording reports.
Speaking to the tenant and issuing written warnings.
Encouraging reports to the police or local authority where crime or serious nuisance is involved.
Under the Renters’ Rights Act and existing Housing Act grounds, serious or persistent ASB can justify seeking possession through the reformed statutory grounds for possession, often on an accelerated or strengthened basis. However, you still need evidence and must avoid discriminatory or retaliatory action. Evidence might include complaints, incident logs, police or council reports.
Failing to act at all may lead to pressure from neighbours, the council or managing agents, particularly in licensed or block-managed properties, while heavy handed or poorly evidenced action can lead to legal challenges from the tenant.
