What anti-social behaviour is

Find out what behaviours are classed as anti-social.

Anti-social behaviour includes a range of nuisance and criminal behaviours which are causing distress to others. 

Whether someone’s actions can be classed as anti-social behaviour relies heavily on the impact it has on other people. Behaviour that is more frequent or persistent is more likely to be considered as anti-social.

Different organisations including us, the police and landlords look at these factors when we decide how best to deal with reports of anti-social behaviour. Each report is looked at individually by considering the suffering of the victims and the impact on the wider community.

Examples of anti-social behaviour can include, but is not limited to:

  • Noisy or abusive behaviour
  • Vandalism
  • Graffiti
  • Intimidation
  • Being drunk in public
  • Flytipping
  • Illegal drug use
  • Excessive barking from dogs

Some behaviour might not be classed as anti-social, even though it might cause a problem for people. Examples are:

  • One-off parties and barbecues
  • Children playing
  • Occasional dog barking
  • Excessive noise from household appliances such as washing machines or vacuum cleaners
  • Minor vehicle repairs
  • Gossip
  • Escalated disputes
  • Infrequent or occasional noises or disturbances

Report anti-social behaviour