Dreaming of that perfect first home? While you might be engrossed in mortgage rates, interior designs, and location scouting, there’s another critical aspect of home ownership to keep on your radar: forming good relationships with your new neighbours.
A positive bond with your neighbours isn’t just about borrowing a cup of flour or having someone to collect your mail when you’re on holiday. It’s what might make them think twice about blasting music, mowing their lawn at 6am on a Sunday, or giving you warning about an upcoming party. When relationships turn sour, disputes with neighbours can become draining and messy. So, taking proactive steps from the outset can make all the difference.
First impressions count
Introduce Yourself: Before the moving madness begins, take a moment to introduce yourself to your new neighbours. A simple hello can pave the way for a good relationship. If you can, let them know in advance about your moving day, giving them a heads up about any potential inconveniences like noise or the space the moving truck might need.
Common issues, rules, and etiquette
Noise concerns
Whether it’s a dog barking in the wee hours or blasting music late at night, noise is a common neighbour complaint. Always be mindful of the volume, especially during odd hours. If you plan on having a gathering, inform your neighbours in advance and keep the noise down as the night progresses.
The rules
Neighbourhood noise is covered under the Protection of the Environment Operations (Noise Control) Regulation 2017. This sets out restricted times around things like when you can mow your lawn, practise your drums and run your car – except when entering or leaving the premises.
If you’re wondering what the restricted hours are in your area, the best place to check is on your Council’s website. However, as a rule of thumb the restrictions are usually between 8pm-8am on weekdays and range between 8pm or 12pm and 8am on weekends.
Street parking
Parking can be a sensitive issue in many neighbourhoods, especially when space is limited. Always try to park outside your own home and never block your neighbour’s driveway. If you have guests, remind them to park considerately.
The rules
Parking across driveways, on the nature strip or obstructing the footpath is prohibited.
However, no resident has an exclusive right to park directly outside their home on a public road unless there is designated private parking or specific council regulations that allocate parking spaces to properties. Public roads are just that – public – and parking is typically on a first-come, first-served basis.
Bins and garbage
Putting the bins out is a chore but having to move them because someone parked in front of them, is especially frustrating. The safest bet? Put them at the end of your driveway on collection day. Just make sure you remember to bring them in before reversing in the morning.
The rules
While it’s not illegal to park in front of a rubbish bin placed by a public road for collection, doing so means the garbage truck cannot access it.
Fencing matters
Joint fences can often be a grey area in terms of responsibility. Generally, costs for erecting or repairing fences are shared between neighbours, unless they agree otherwise. If you’re considering changes, always consult your neighbour first. Knowing where your property line is and discussing any potential work can prevent future disputes.
The rules
In NSW, fencing is governed by the Dividing Fences Act 1991. This covers responsibilities for cost, providing a neighbour with notice regarding changes to the fence, type, position, height restrictions and how to resolve disputes.
Ready to make that perfect first home a reality? The Prudential team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Information referred to in this article was obtained from publicly accessible sources including Transport NSW and NSW Government Legislation. The information in this blog post is for general guidance only and should not be taken as personal advice. We do not accept any liability for any errors or omissions.
Prudential Real Estate Campbelltown | (02) 4628 0033 | campbelltown@prudential.com.au
Prudential Real Estate Liverpool | (02) 9822 5999 | liverpool@prudential.com.au
Prudential Real Estate Macquarie Fields | (02) 9605 5333 | macquariefields@prudential.com.au
Prudential Real Estate Narellan | (02) 4624 4400 | narellan@prudential.com.au
