Love thy neighbour? One in five people ‘have argued with those on their street’

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One in five people having been involved in a dispute with their neighbour, according to new research

A survey of 2,000 adults by Co-op Insurance revealed that almost half of problems remained unresolved after a year.

One in 10 Britons has moved house because of an issue with a neighbour, with many disputes about noise, barking dogs, parking, unruly children or messy gardens.

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Residents in London and Birmingham suffer the most, while the most harmonious place to live was said to be Milton Keynes.

The report published a blueprint for the ideal neighbour, including showing respect, not making too much noise, keeping gardens tidy and looking after a house when the owner was away.

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The new study shows that Britain may be losing its community spirit

The study also revealed that half of under-35-year-olds have never set foot inside a neighbour’s house, while fewer than a third of all those questioned saying they would introduce themselves to a new neighbour.

Without communities we’re in danger of living isolated lives

James Hillon, Co-op Insurance

James Hillon, of Co-op Insurance, said: “The research shows as a nation we’re at risk of losing the community spirit we once prided ourselves on.

“Communities are valuable as they allow people to interact with each other, share experiences and develop valued relationships, without communities we’re in danger of living isolated lives.

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Barking dogs can be a subject of contention between neighbours

“As our lives become ever busier and we spend more time engaged with technology – TV, the internet and social media – it seems we are becoming ever more distant from our closest neighbours.

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Fewer than a third of all those questioned saying they would introduce themselves to a new neighbour

“As a nation we need come together, lose the British stiff upper lip and engage with our neighbours, who in time may become friends.”