Property information Form (TA6) - neighbour dispute reporting

mgw101808303

We’re looking to move. We need more space but one of the main issues is that my neighbour smokes very strong weed and it is driving us up the wall. The smell comes into our house, we can’t have our back doors open. We have children and we don’t want them exposed to this. We’ve had the conversation on multiple occasions but it’s not stopping. It wouldn’t be so bad if it was after 9 at night or occasionally, but it is every day from morning until night. 

We know we need to fill in any neighbour disputes or conflicts on the TA6 form but we’re concerned this may affect our sale and although we don’t like it, others may be more tolerant. Are we obligated to include this information? We don’t want to involve the law as we don’t think they can do much about it, and we risk making a difficult situation worse. Any ideas?

user1977

Repeatedly talking to them about it sounds like a "dispute or complaint" to me, and even if it's not, it sounds like you're "aware of something which might lead to a dispute".

mgw101808303

This is exactly the problem. I’d feel uncomfortable if we didn’t declare it, but I’m also unsure whether it falls into the category of a dispute or conflict if we haven’t formalised it with external agencies. I don’t dislike my neighbour (he’s very chilled!) but I also know that this is an addictive behaviour and one that isn’t going to stop. 

I don’t want to be in a position where I can’t move because a declaration could dissuade any buyers but I also want to avoid any comeback as we are planning to stay in the area. 

Its not a situation that I have any responsibility for and yet either choice has potentially negative outcomes for my family.

dimbo61

Have you complained to the Police or Council ?

user1977

The relevant declaration is not restricted to "formal" disputes or complaints, or even matters which you've actually complained about yet.

mgw101808303

dimbo61 said:

Have you complained to the Police or Council ?

No. Ive had a look at forums with folk in a similar situation and the general consensus is that, while this might be a course of action, it rarely gets resolved and only increases tension between the neighbours - which helps no-one.

WorriedKirkels

My friend had exactly the same issue and whilst she had spoken to her neighbour it had always been very amicable so she didn’t declare it when she sold. To be honest, the neighbours smoked at all times so it’s highly likely that her buyers were aware as there was always the same awful stench 🤢 

firebubble

If you've complained to the council or police, you have to declare it. If not, I wouldn't say anything on the form. If you're having multiple conversations, that's not a dispute, because it doesn't sound like you've fallen out with the neighbour (it sounds like you ask them please not, and they say yeah yeah and just carry on).

Don't try to conceal the smell of smoke (no air fresheners etc!) but just let things unfold. If your neighbour smokes all the time, potential buyers will have the opportunity to see if they notice it - they may be stoners themselves, they may have no sense of smell, they may not care. Those who do notice it and don't like it won't buy. Plus your neighbour will probably move at some point,

I'd stay friendly with the neighbour, and marvel at how, when you know escape is in sight and you're leaving, you may notice it far less than you did.

Slinky

I would also choose an agent that does the viewings for you, then there's fewer opportunities for the 'what are the neighbours like' questions to come in your direction.