As part of the prevention strategy, we will use all available powers to reduce instances of ASB within the local community. We will use a range of early intervention practices and non-legal remedies to mitigate and avoid escalation of problems, including:
- Mediation
- Early warnings
- Visits
- Letters
- Contracts
- Agreements
These may include:
- Implementing estate action plans to address ASB by conducting necessary repairs and identifying improvements that could help prevent and address ASB issues specific to certain estates
- Carrying out estate inspections at an increased frequency to consider ASB in an area
- Issuing a Legal Warning Letter/Letter Before Legal Action, which outlines the behaviours that do not follow tenancy or lease agreements, inform tenants and leaseholders of their obligations, and outline that further action may be considered if behaviour does not change. The communication makes the next steps of legal action very clear
- Negotiating an Acceptable Behaviour Contract. This is a voluntary written agreement between an individual engaging in ASB and various agencies, aiming to prevent further problematic actions. The contract outlines specific behaviours to be avoided and may include positive requirements to support the individual in changing their conduct
- Applying Parenting Contract Agreements (PCAs) in cases of ASB involving individuals under 18 years old, assign responsibility to parent(s) to work on their child’s behaviour with support from relevant agencies such as youth services
- Engaging external mediation services to help in resolving disputes between neighbours such as those about noise, boundaries, parking, pets, waste with the consent of all involved parties
- Referring to a Restorative Practice specialist so that all parties can understand the impact of their behaviour
ASB is counted as a breach of tenancy and, in extreme cases, we will seek possession of the property.