Tenants are entitled to live in a safe, healthy and peaceful environment. Sometimes this environment can be disrupted by neighbours.
What do I do if I have a problem with my neighbour?
You should try to settle any disagreements and disputes that may arise with your neighbours before they become serious. The Dispute Resolution Centre can assist you with this. Information on the Centre is detailed further on.
- When talking with your neighbour, be clear about what the issue or problem is. In what ways is it affecting your peaceful enjoyment of your home?
- Take note of the events or actions that have caused the disturbance.
- Try to discuss the problem with your neighbour in a calm and constructive way.
If you don't believe it is possible to discuss the problem calmly, try the following:
- Talk to someone at the Dispute Resolution Centre who will listen to your concerns without taking sides and discuss your options with you.
- If you feel it is necessary, discuss the matter with the Police. Keep a copy of any Police report you file and your statement.
Will the Department of Communities (Housing and Homelessness Services) help with the dispute?
The department will intervene in neighbourhood problems only where intervention is justified and required under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008.
The department will not play the role of Police or the Dispute Resolution Centre. However, the department can help by referring you to the appropriate agencies, who may be able to help you in resolving your problems.
What is the Dispute Resolution Centre?
The Dispute Resolution Centre provides mediation services and can help you by settling a dispute without legal action. The Dispute Resolution Centre is run by the Department of Justice and Attorney-General and involves guiding discussions between the two parties involved to work out an agreement that suits them both. Mediators will not take sides and will not make judgements. The service maintains your privacy, is usually free, helps you make your own decisions about the dispute and most importantly, will help to have the problem resolved.
For more information, visit the Dispute Resolution Centre website or contact them on 3239 6007 within Brisbane, or toll-free on 1800 017 288.
How do I contact the Dispute Resolution Centre in my area?
Contact your nearest Housing Service Centre which has the contact number for the Dispute Resolution Centre in your area or call the Department of Justice and Attorney-General which can also help you with obtaining contact details.
What if mediation doesn't work?
If mediation has not worked for you, you still have other options, including legal action, to have your dispute resolved. Discuss these options with the Dispute Resolution Centre.