‘Neighbours banned us from using own garden when they want to argue’

A homeowner has been left utterly bewildered after their neighbours demanded they stop spending time in their own garden – simply because the couple wanted somewhere “private” to argue.

The parent described how they and their partner spend considerable time outdoors during summer because they have a young child.

From unwinding on the porch to tending the garden, barbecuing food and arranging a paddling pool, the family are generally quiet neighbours who keep themselves to themselves.

They explained: “We’re honestly pretty low key. No parties, no huge groups of people over, no blasting music until midnight.”

According to the homeowner, the properties are constructed close together with fences almost back-to-back, meaning overhearing conversations outside is simply part of residing there.

They added that hearing neighbours conversing in gardens during summer has never particularly troubled them before.

But matters took an uncomfortable turn when the neighbouring couple came outside in the middle of an argument while the family were already playing outside with their child.

The parent described how they attempted to disregard the shouting and continued minding their own business – until one neighbour suddenly snapped.

They recalled hearing the furious resident yell: “These nosey neighbours won’t go the f*** inside so we can f***ing talk.”

The astonished homeowner insisted they weren’t attempting to eavesdrop and had already been outside long before the neighbours even appeared. They wrote: “Trust me, given the option I wouldn’t be out here playing floor is lava in 100 degree weather either, but here we are.”

The resident acknowledged they have previously overheard disputes from next door, though only because the couple frequently shout, slam doors and lock each other out of the property multiple times each week.

“If somebody is yelling, slamming doors and peeling out of the driveway next door, people are going to hear it,” they added.

However, the homeowner revealed they now feel oddly uneasy simply enjoying their own garden following the confrontation.

They explained their porch is typically where the family relaxes and they had even recently purchased a small pool for the summer months.

Seeking guidance online, they questioned whether it was unreasonable for neighbours to expect those living nearby to retreat indoors whenever they fancied having a row outside.

The vast majority firmly backed the family, with one commenting: “Your neighbours are dumb. You go inside for a private convo, not outside.”

Another added: “There is absolutely no reason why you should be chased out of your own yard because your neighbours want to fight in theirs.”

Meanwhile, one particularly forthright commenter joked: “I’m the neighbour that would yell back to take the fight inside so the whole damn neighbourhood doesn’t have to hear it.”