Why do I need to report ASB, and how do I report it?

Why do I need to report ASB?

We take all reports of ASB seriously and will work with you and relevant agencies to try and resolve the issue, but we cannot do this without your help. Your reports give us the information and evidence that we need to take action to stop the ASB from happening.

Without this we are unable to understand what you are going through and how often something is happening. We can work with our partner agencies where appropriate to work together to investigate the problem. Any action we take is in line with our policy and procedures - and we need evidence to take this forward.

Your reports also help us to understand if someone may need help or be at risk. It's important for our service to understand how our residents and communities are being affected.

How can I report ASB?

All reports of ASB made to Lewes District or Eastbourne Borough Council housing can be made through one of the following:

• Online - Lewes and Eastbourne residents can report using our ASB form
• Telephone - you can call us at 01273 471600 or 01323 410000
• Email - you can also email us at [email protected]

If you are experiencing ASB that involves a crime or is a risk to yourself or others, then you need to report this to the police. You can report ASB to the police by:

• Phoning 101 for a non-urgent matter.
• Phoning 999 if its urgent and a crime is taking place.
• Reporting online to the police on the Sussex Police website

What types of things are evidence in an ASB case?  

If you report ASB to us, you will hear us use the term 'evidence' quite a lot. For us to act against someone, we need to have evidence to show that the allegations made to us are true.

If nuisance is proven to be happening, we will explore all tools and powers available to take reasonable and proportionate action. Your housing officer will complete appropriate actions to gather evidence including speaking to our partners in the council and police.

When people think of 'evidence', they may think of, photos, videos, or recordings.

Whilst these types of physical evidence are very strong in a case, it may not always be possible to get these, and we would not encourage you to gather this yourself if it is not safe or appropriate.

Other things that may give evidence include:

• Your housing officer speaking to other neighbours in the area to see if they also report similar issues or have any evidence.
• Neighbours reporting the same incidents and the same thing.
• Reports to other agencies and reference numbers that show that incidents have been attended and witnessed.
• Witness statements from professionals and neighbours who have witnessed the ASB.
• Noise recordings through our noise app.
• Information of the incidents from our wider estate teams

What are my responsibilities?

You are responsible for the behaviour of every member of your household. This includes your children, any visitors, pets, lodgers, or sub tenants, while they are in your home, in any shared area around your home or the surrounding area.

This means that you will be held responsible for others who cause nuisance in your home and the surrounding areas if they are linked to you. Please refer to your tenants handbook.