Will the Police Do Anything About My Neighbors Smoking Weed?

by Kanimozhi BV | Sep 22, 2025 | Home & Living

My Neighbour Smokes Weed and It Comes in My House – What Should I Do?

I first noticed the smell of cannabis drifting into my living room during the evenings. At first, I brushed it off, assuming it was a one-off.

But when the weed smell started to fill my home regularly, I realized I couldn’t just ignore it anymore. I really wondered will the police do anything about my neighbors smoking weed.

My windows were closed, but the smell still came through vents and cracks in the walls — especially in a terraced house where properties are closely built.

Aside from the unpleasant odour, it also started to affect my family’s comfort and well-being.

I began to worry about how this exposure might impact our health — particularly for my children. I also started to feel anxious about guests noticing the smell, or worse, assuming it was coming from me.

Is It Illegal for Someone to Smoke Weed in the UK in 2025?

Yes, absolutely. In the UK, cannabis remains a Class B drug under the Misuse of Drugs Act 1971.

Despite changing attitudes and international trends toward legalization, it is still illegal to possess, use, grow, or supply cannabis in any form without a prescription.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Even if your neighbour is only using it for personal recreational use, the law does not allow it — especially when it impacts others, like causing a nuisance through smell.

Can You Report Someone for Smoking Weed in the UK?

Yes, you can report someone for smoking cannabis, especially if it’s affecting your quality of life. I learned there are several ways to go about this:

• Call 101 (non-emergency police number)
• Report online through your local police force website
• Contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 to report anonymously
• Use the “Report a crime” tool on the UK police website

I personally chose to report anonymously because I was concerned about possible retaliation or awkwardness with my neighbour. Crimestoppers didn’t ask for my name or address, and I was able to give details discreetly.

Will the Police Do Anything About My Neighbour Smoking Weed?

This is the big question — and the answer is: it depends.

When I reported the issue, I expected immediate action, but here’s what I learned:

• If it’s just the smell, and there’s no evidence of dealing or danger, police may log the complaint but not act immediately
• If the same person is reported multiple times, the police may investigate further
• If children are exposed, or if cannabis is being grown or supplied, the police are more likely to act quickly

In my case, they logged the complaint but said unless there were signs of criminal activity or repeated incidents, they wouldn’t take direct action right away.

What Can I Do About Neighbors Smoking Weed in the UK?

I found myself wondering if police were my only option. Thankfully, they’re not.

Here are some practical steps I took:

• Recorded the dates and times I smelled cannabis
• Logged the impact (headaches, sleepless nights, children affected)
• Spoke to my housing association (they sent a warning letter)
• Contacted Environmental Health about the ongoing smell

Many councils take antisocial behaviour seriously, especially in social housing. Mine was willing to act once I provided enough evidence.

Can the Smell of Weed Alone Lead to Police Action?

This was something I really wanted to know — and it’s a bit of a legal grey area.

Here’s what I found out:

• Smell alone is not usually enough to enter a home without a warrant
• However, it can be used as part of a broader justification to investigate further
• If police suspect drug dealing or see other evidence (like lots of foot traffic), they may seek a search warrant

So while the smell of cannabis coming into your house is unpleasant, it may not be sufficient grounds for immediate police action. But it helps to log it regularly — that way, if something escalates, you’ve got a solid record.

What Legal Rights Do I Have if a Neighbor Smokes Cannabis?

As a resident, I have the right to live in a peaceful, safe, and nuisance-free environment. Persistent cannabis use by neighbors can fall under:

• Statutory nuisance (especially if the smell is strong and constant)
• Antisocial Behaviour as defined under the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014
• Breach of tenancy agreement, if they’re in social or rented housing

I consulted a local solicitor through a free legal advice clinic, who confirmed that tenants can be evicted for repeated complaints — even if police don’t prosecute.

Should I Contact My Local Council or Housing Association?

Yes — especially if you’re not getting a response from the police.

When I contacted my housing association, they took it more seriously than I expected. They already had other complaints about the same neighbour and sent a formal warning. Repeated violations can even lead to eviction proceedings.

Local councils also have teams that deal with:

• Noise and environmental nuisance
• Neighbourhood safety
• Housing enforcement

If your neighbour rents privately, you can try contacting the landlord directly as well. In many tenancy agreements, drug use on the property is a violation of terms.

Are There Safe Ways to Handle This Without Involving the Police?

Yes — and sometimes these alternative routes are more effective and less confrontational:

• Neighbour mediation services (many councils offer this for free)
• Contacting a local PCSO (Police Community Support Officer)
• Writing a respectful anonymous note (be cautious)

That said, I don’t recommend direct confrontation unless you feel completely safe. Some people react poorly, especially when drugs are involved.

When Does Cannabis Use Become a Criminal Offence Worth Reporting?

Although smoking weed is illegal, the severity of the offence changes depending on circumstances. Here are a few examples:

Can I Stay Anonymous When Reporting Weed-Smoking Neighbors?

Absolutely. This was important for me too. Here’s how I did it safely:

• I called Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
• I avoided sharing personal details
• I documented everything in a private log, including photos and timestamps (where appropriate)

No one ever followed up with me directly, but I later heard that the police had visited the property for a general welfare check — so something came from it.

Conclusion: What I Did When My Neighbour Smoked Weed and It Affected Me

Dealing with a neighbour who smokes weed that seeps into your home is frustrating — and it can feel like no one wants to take responsibility. But here’s what I learned:

• You have legal rights to report drug use and antisocial behaviour.
• The police may not act immediately, but your complaint is logged.
• Housing associations and councils can be more proactive.
• You don’t need to confront anyone or put yourself at risk — anonymous reporting works.
• Keeping a record helps build a case over time.

If you’re facing a similar situation, know that you’re not alone — and you don’t have to live with it. Take measured steps, stay calm, and use the support systems available. It’s your home too.

Related Article: How To Remove Cigarette Smell From Room Instantly?

What Are the Frequently Asked Questions Related to Will the Police Do Anything About My Neighbors Smoking Weed?

1. Can I get into trouble for reporting my neighbour for smoking weed?

No, you won’t get into trouble for reporting illegal activity, especially when it’s affecting your home environment.

If you’re concerned about privacy or retaliation, you can report anonymously through Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or use your local police force’s online form without providing personal details.

2. Will the police really take action over just the smell of weed?

Not always. The smell alone often isn’t enough to justify police entry or serious action, unless it’s accompanied by other signs like loud parties, constant foot traffic, or children being exposed.

However, if complaints build up or there’s suspicion of drug dealing, police may escalate their response.

3. What if my neighbour retaliates after I report them?

This is a valid concern, which is why anonymous reporting is strongly recommended. If you fear harassment or threats after making a complaint, you should inform the police immediately.

In some cases, councils and housing associations may offer community mediation services or additional protections under antisocial behaviour laws.