Bright holiday displays may cause issues with neighbours and local authorities – here’s how to avoid falling foul of the rules.
As the festive season approaches, many homeowners love to decorate their properties with dazzling Christmas lights and displays.
However, experts are warning that going overboard with decorations could lead to trouble, especially if they become a nuisance to neighbours.
Home improvement specialists at Online-Bedrooms.co.uk are urging Brits to consider the potential consequences of excessive lighting. Bright, flashing or poorly managed Christmas lights can be seen as a “statutory nuisance” and might cause disruptions for those living nearby.
‘Over the top’ Christmas lights can become an issue
While a touch of festive cheer is always welcome, homeowners should be aware that when their light displays become intrusive, local authorities may get involved.
If the lights interfere with a neighbour’s enjoyment of their property, a complaint can lead to an abatement notice.
This notice will require the homeowner to reduce or stop using the lights at certain times of the day or night.
Cat Wiltshire, spokesperson for Online-Bedrooms.co.uk, explained, “While beautifully lit-up houses can help people get into the festive spirit, if your light displays are too over the top, it can not only cause issues with your neighbours but with local authorities as well.”
For the lights to be classified as a statutory nuisance, they must unreasonably interfere with the use or enjoyment of a neighbour’s home.
It’s important to remember that a few tasteful sets of lights are not typically a concern – but excessive brightness, flashing lights or displays that spill over into neighbouring properties can trigger complaints.
Tips for avoiding Christmas lighting conflicts
To prevent holiday decorations from becoming a source of conflict, experts recommend a few simple strategies.
Homeowners are recommended to speak to their neighbours before putting up large displays to ensure they won’t be disturbed. This can go a long way in avoiding complaints and keeping the festive spirit intact.
If the lights are causing any issues, it’s important to make adjustments. Dimming the lights, monitoring how long they stay on, or using timers can help keep them from becoming disruptive, especially during late-night hours.
Wiltshire added, “Timers can be a great way to ensure your lights aren’t left on during unsociable hours, and using warm, non-flashing lights can help create a cosy, festive atmosphere without being intrusive.”
To avoid potential complaints, homeowners should focus on keeping their lighting displays contained within their own property.
Non-flashing, low-wattage, or energy-efficient LED lights are also a great choice. These types of lights produce a softer glow, reducing the chance of causing glare that might bother neighbours.
Reporter for The London Property News.