Some of us are blessed with having neighbours that become good friends *sings Neighbours theme tune* – unfortunately, others can be tricky to get along with and it can make your home life a little bit difficult. We’ve put together 5 top tips that’ll help you become the best neighbour around to ensure a harmonious environment on your street!
1. The introduction
When you move to a new street, or you’ve got new neighbours, pop round and introduce yourself! If they’re new to your neighbourhood, share some important information such as then the bins are collected, and where the nearest shop is. Chances are they will already know, but it’s nice to show you are willing to help them to settle in, at the same time you don’t want to become a pest so let them know you’re there if they need you but you will leave them to move in.
2. Shared walls
If you live in a semi-detached, link-detached or terraced house always remember to be courteous. You’ll share at least one wall with your neighbours, try to use any loud appliances during the day and avoid late-night uses. Also, mount your TV on a stand, rather than the wall to help reduce the amount of noise that would go through the shared wall. If you need to do some work, hang a shelf or drill a hole, make sure you’ve let your neighbours know that there may be some noise for a few moments whilst you get the job done.
3. Parking
If you do not have off-street parking, try to make sure you’re not blocking their parking bay. If you’ve got guests coming over, try to find somewhere else to park or ask your neighbours if they’d mind you blocking theirs for the evening. Always avoid presuming that they do not need the space as they don’t have a car – they could also have guests that same night!
4. Be social!
If you’re planning on having a barbeque one evening, think about inviting your neighbours over for a burger and a drink, it’s a great way to integrate, or help your neighbours integrate into the neighbourhood. You might find it a great occasion to find some common ground with them, and who knows…it could lead on to regular catch ups!
5. Look out for them
Now, we’re not saying to become a nosey neighbour because that certainly won’t help your other neighbours warm to you, but be aware of what is going on around you. If you notice next door are away on holiday but hear loud noises from their house late at night, perhaps consider calling the appropriate authorities to scope out the property. Also, alert your neighbours if you notice someone has been loitering around outside their house – if you show you’re looking out for them, they may well return the favour!
Being a neighbour needn’t be stressful, the biggest tip is to understand that your neighbour might just want to keep themselves to themselves. It doesn’t mean they are antisocial or don’t want to talk to you, simply that people have busy lives and they might just like relaxing when they are home from work.
