What Are Your Rights as a Homeowner?

Local Facebook groups and Reddit forums have seen a surge in complaints about neighbours smoking cannabis. For homeowners, especially those with children or preparing to sell, the persistent smell and potential safety concerns can be distressing. But what can you legally do about it? And are more people really choosing cannabis over cigarettes?

Cannabis Use: A Shifting Landscape

While cannabis remains a Class B drug in the UK under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, public attitudes are changing. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), about 6.8% of adults aged 16–59 reported using cannabis in 2024, a slight decrease from 7.6% in 2023. Simultaneously, cigarette smoking is declining: only 12.9% of UK adults reported being regular smokers in 2023, down from 14.1% in 2019. These statistics suggest a shift towards alternative substances, with cannabis now often seen as less harmful or more socially acceptable than tobacco among certain groups.

However, legality is clear. Cannabis use and possession remain illegal, and its use can be especially problematic in communal or densely packed housing areas.

Your Rights as a Homeowner

1. Private Nuisance Complaints

If your neighbour’s cannabis use interferes with your enjoyment of your property, due to persistent smell or smoke entering your home, you may have grounds to lodge a private nuisance complaint. This is a civil matter and often involves:

• Keeping a detailed log of incidents (dates, times, effects on your property or wellbeing)
• Contacting your local council or environmental health department
• Speaking to a solicitor if escalation is required

Be aware that this can take time, and outcomes depend on the extent and frequency of the issue.

2. Council Involvement: Anti-Social Behaviour

Many local councils treat repeated cannabis use in residential properties as anti-social behaviour (ASB). You can report your neighbour to the council’s ASB team. Councils can issue warnings, community protection notices, or escalate to legal orders if the behaviour persists.

To report ASB, provide:

• A clear description of the issue
• Dates, times and frequency
• Any impact it is having on your home life or property value

3. Involving the Police

Cannabis possession and use is illegal, and if your neighbour is smoking openly or you suspect dealing, you can report this anonymously to the police via:

• 101 (non-emergency number)
• Crimestoppers (0800 555 111)

Be prepared that unless there is clear evidence or community pressure, enforcement is inconsistent due to resource limitations and changing attitudes.

4. Landlord or Housing Association

If your neighbour is a tenant, private or social, you can contact their landlord. Most tenancy agreements have clauses forbidding illegal drug use. Housing associations and local authorities, in particular, may act quickly if there are multiple complaints.

Preparing to Sell? Consider Your Approach

Cannabis odour can deter prospective buyers, particularly families. If you’re planning to sell:

• Document everything. It will help if you need to challenge a neighbour’s behaviour formally.
• Talk to your estate agent. They can advise on how to manage buyer viewings and handle any odour issues.
• Use odour blockers and seal windows where necessary during viewings.

Remember, sellers are not legally obliged to disclose nuisance neighbours unless directly asked.

Should You Confront Your Neighbour?

Approaching a neighbour directly can sometimes solve the problem, but it must be done carefully. If you feel safe, a polite conversation (not confrontation) may help. However, if you suspect hostility or ongoing illegal activity, it is safer to report the issue to the relevant authorities rather than engage personally.

As cannabis use becomes more common, conflicts between private habits and public peace are growing. For homeowners, the key is to act methodically: keep records, use formal channels, and prioritise your safety. Though the law is clear, enforcement is not always consistent, so persistence and community action often matter most

Need to Sell Quickly? We’re Here to Help

If you’re struggling to sell your home, whether due to neighbour issues, market conditions, or time constraints, Home Sale Hub is here to support you. We specialise in helping homeowners achieve fast, stress-free sales, with expert advice, trusted buyers and tailored solutions to suit your circumstances. Whether you want a quick sale, get in touch with our team today to find out how we can help you move forward with confidence.