Legal Tips for Being a Good Neighbor
Legal Tips for Being a Good Neighbor: Get to know one another.
When you first move into a new home, it’s a good practice to introduce yourself to the neighbors on either side of you and even the ones directly across. If you feel comfortable, give them your name and your phone number in case they have an emergency and need your help, and they’ll hopefully do the same.
Legal Tips for Being a Good Neighbor: Get involved.
Most communities have regular home owner or tenancy meetings that will address issues that concerns all of the residents. These are great places to get to know your neighbors, and to catch up on issues that might concern you or your family. A rash of car burglaries, a few broken streetlamps, or new developments might be addressed.
Legal Tips for Being a Good Neighbor: Keep it down.
The most common neighborly complaint has to do with noise, be it music, animals or yelling. If you’re going to throw a big bash with lots of music and booze, tell your neighbors first. If you think they might be adverse to the idea, invite them over! And if your neighbors come knocking with a noise complaint, make an effort to address their concerns.
Legal Tips for Being a Good Neighbor: Keep tabs on the trees.
Even though a tree is in your yard, your neighbors might be affected by it. An overhanging branch that might fall into your neighbor’s roof could be an issue, so be sure to keep trees properly trimmed and under control. Otherwise, you’ll be legally liable for damages.
Legal Tips for Being a Good Neighbor: Do your research.
Before you move into a new community, be sure to check out the section of the community homeowner rules called CC&R (Conditions, Covenants & Restrictions). Make sure that your three dogs, six palm trees, eight-foot-high storage shed, and stone fountain will be welcome in that neighborhood. Neighbors are infamous for reporting violations to homeowner committees.
Legal Tips for Being a Good Neighbor: Watch out for “adverse possession”.
There is a legal doctrine that says that if you allow a neighbor to use part of your property for their own convenience for a certain number of years, that piece of your property can legally become theirs. That means that if you allow your neighbor to use your driveway, backyard, or side of your house, then they can eventually claim it as their own, unless you have an agreement stating otherwise. Get it in writing.
Legal Tips for Being a Good Neighbor: Protect the children.
You have a legal obligation to keep anything that might harm children on your property safe. That means that if you have a swimming pool, you must take adequate precautions to ensure that the neighbor children can’t accidentally fall in.
Legal Tips for Being a Good Neighbor: Watch your animals.
If you have a dog, be sure to follow all of the laws in your state concerning leashes and animal droppings. Put up a fence to be sure that Fido doesn’t use your neighbors yard as his playpen (or toilet).
