Can I take legal action myself?

Yes. If you are a victim of continuing nuisance or antisocial behaviour, you can complain to your local Magistrates’ or County Court. If the Court is satisfied there is a nuisance, it can order the nuisance to be stopped or serve an injunction to stop the nuisance. You may also be able to claim damages if you can prove that your health, comfort or convenience has been upset.

 

If your home is damaged by another tenant’s negligence, you should make a claim against their household insurance policy. If you have your own household insurance, your claim should go through them first. If the claim is not settled, the County Court runs a small claims procedure where the value of the goods involved is under £500. Alternatively, it may be possible for the Magistrates’ court to make a compensation order.

 

If you are attacked and injured as a result of anti-social behaviour and are unable to obtain compensation from any other source, you should apply to the Criminal Injuries Compensation Board.

 

You should always seek advice from a law centre, Citizens Advice Bureau or private solicitor before taking your own legal action.