Antisocial Behaviour in Residential Blocks: A Guide for RMC & RTM Directors

Antisocial behaviour can have a significant impact on residents, the value of a building, and the smooth operation of a residential block. As part of The JMJ Commitment, we believe issues should be handled calmly, fairly and proportionately, with clear boundaries around responsibility. This guidance note explains how antisocial behaviour is managed within block and estate management, and how RMC and RTM directors can make informed, confident decisions.

What is antisocial behaviour in a residential block?

Antisocial behaviour is any behaviour that unreasonably interferes with another resident’s use or enjoyment of their home. Within block management, it is typically behaviour that is persistent rather than a one‑off disagreement.

Common examples include:

  • Excessive noise
  • Harassment or intimidation
  • Vandalism to communal areas
  • Graffiti or fly‑tipping
  • Nuisance caused by pets
  • Drug‑related activity

The JMJ Commitment: Our approach to antisocial behaviour

The JMJ Commitment is our promise to act in a way that is clear, calm and protective of the asset and the people who live there. When dealing with antisocial behaviour, this means:
 
  • Acting proportionately and based on evidence
  • Treating all parties fairly and respectfully
  • Protecting RMC and RTM directors from unnecessary risk or cost
  • Encouraging early, sensible resolution wherever possible
  • Being clear about what falls within block management and what does not
Our role as managing agent is to advise and support directors, not to escalate matters unnecessarily or take sides.

Who is responsible for dealing with antisocial behaviour?

Responsibility is often misunderstood. Antisocial behaviour is not automatically the responsibility of the managing agent.

  • Residents are usually expected to take reasonable initial steps themselves.
  • RMC or RTM directors decide whether formal action is justified. 
    For a clearer overview of director responsibilities, read our article on the Role of an RMC Director.
  • The managing agent acts only on instruction and within the limits of the lease.
  • Local authorities and the police handle statutory or criminal matters.

What can a managing agent do?

A managing agent’s powers come from the lease. Most leases include covenants preventing nuisance or annoyance, but enforcement can be complex, slow and costly.
JMJ Asset Management will:

  • review the lease
  • advise whether a breach may exist
  • guide directors through proportionate options

We cannot take enforcement action without instruction and appropriate indemnity.

When should external authorities be involved?

Certain matters should be escalated externally:

  • Persistent noise → local authority environmental health
  • Fly‑tipping, graffiti, dog fouling → local authority enforcement
  • Harassment, intimidation, violence or drug‑related activity → police
Knowing when to signpost rather than intervene protects the RMC or RTM from unnecessary liability. For blocks facing ongoing issues, our insight Is resident control always the best path? explores wider management considerations.

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What should RMC and RTM directors do next?

If you are dealing with antisocial behaviour in your block:

  • Review the lease and confirm responsibilities
  • Ask for clear written evidence before escalating
  • Avoid informal promises of enforcement
  • Take professional advice before authorising legal action

JMJ Asset Management supports directors with clear, practical advice that protects the asset, the service charge and the people involved.

Disclaimer

This guidance note is provided for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.

What does good communication look like?

Need support with antisocial behaviour in your block?

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