We all want to live in peace, which is why it’s in your best interests as a homeowner to acknowledge your neighbours and contribute towards a happy and peaceful suburb that encourages current and potential homeowners to set roots in the area.
While purchasing a property gives you the rights to do what you like to the place (within the limits of HOA or Body Corporate and municipal regulations, of course), you might not be the only one affected by certain household renovations you choose to undertake. Below are a few things you should consider to keep you in your neighbour’s good graces when you undertake any renovations.
Noisy Neighbours
Depending on what kind of project you decide to tackle, you could find yourself in for hefty fines or a visit by your local police officers if you are not careful. Legally, residents may lay official complaints against you if you are disturbing the peace. To avoid these kinds of complaints, you should warn your neighbours if you do plan on undertaking any noisy renovations. You should also make sure that loud construction work comes to an end by 5 p.m. and does not start before 7 a.m. as to avoid needing to handle any neighbour disputes.
Stay in Your Lane
If your building supplies (bricks, wood frames, etc.) are going to be dropped off at your property, and if these supplies are going to encroach onto the boundary line that divides your plot from that of your neighbour, then you will need to gain your neighbours’ permission before going ahead. This applies to any structures which are being built on the boundary lines too.
Too Close for Comfort
If possible, homeowners should avoid building structures against or even near to the boundary walls of their plot. While a neighbour might grant the necessary permission at first, the noise of having a neighbour’s room right outside their property might prove bothersome over time. Similarly, you should avoid any renovations that will obstruct the views of your neighbours if you’d like to avoid placing strain on your relationships with them.
Spotlight Stress
Another addition you may not realise to be bothersome to your neighbours is outdoor lighting. Particularly if your neighbour’s home faces into your garden, motion-activated outdoor lights can be a real nuisance. You should be considerate when fitting external light fixtures to make sure that the lights will not keep your neighbours awake at night.
It’s About the Aesthetic
Keep external features to a style that fits in with the overall aesthetic of the neighbourhood. You might want to keep any elaborate and unique design statements to the interior of your home. For example, if your neighbourhood is filled with homes painted in neutral shades, perhaps it might be better to leave that tin of red paint for your living room instead of the exterior of your home. If you feel like the style of your current neighbourhood is limiting your creativity it may be time to look for a new home in a neighbourhood that fits your ideal aesthetic.
