The survey asked people to choose the best and worst types of neighbours from a range of categories. 90% of respondents voted perennial outcasts squatters as the worst, but students came close behind (63%). Families with teenagers came third with 36% of people preferring not to overhear slamming doors, arguments and drum kits. Young flat sharers came in fourth from bottom as once again, they are thought most likely to live lifestyles disruptive to their neighbours.
Childless couples, pensioners and singles were voted the favourites.
Noise is the most important factor separating the wheat from the chaff. Respondents were particularly averse to loud parties and domestic arguments.
Couples these days must be careful since 24% of respondent’s citied loud love-making as the worst neighbour noise.
Nicholas Leeming concluded: “For people selling their home, the neighbours can make the difference between a quick sale and a prolonged process and have a material affect on what price sellers can achieve for their property.”
