If we cannot resolve a problem after trying other remedies such as mediation, then we may have to take formal action. There are several measures we can take, some of which are explained below:
Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABC)
An ABC is an informal voluntary contract made between the perpetrator and the local police, or housing association. This contract may specify areas of the community that the perpetrator cannot go and behaviour they agree not to engage in. The tenant of the property in which the perpetrator lives has to sign an agreement that if the contract is broken then we as their landlord can take action against them. This could result in the loss of their tenancy.
Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBO)
We can apply to the courts for an ASBO in cases of extreme or persistent behaviour. The offender risks detention by the courts if the order is broken.
Anti-Social Behaviour Injunctions (ASBI)
Injunctions are issued by the courts to exclude perpetrators from a property or from certain areas where they have been causing a nuisance, harassment or intimidation, or to stop a person from engaging in anti-social behaviour. Injunctions are also issued by the courts to order a person to carry out certain tasks, for example to bring a garden up to an acceptable standard.
Demotion Order
Demotion Orders are issued by the County Court and changes a tenancy to a type of one-year, introductory tenancy with much less security of tenure. Should the Association receive further complaints of anti-social behaviour, we may legally end the tenancy without taking further legal action.
Possession Action (Evictions)
In certain cases, we will be forced to request that the courts grant us possession of a property due to persistent breaches of the tenancy agreement, which may result in a tenant losing their home.
Closure Orders
We can work with the police and local authorities to ask the Magistrates Court for a Closure Order to close down properties that are being used for the supply of illegal substances or where persistent anti social behaviour is perpetrated or allowed to be perpetrated.
