Good neighbourliness is important

Hardly anyone in Germany lives completely isolated from other people. Being a good neighbour is very important to most people, but it can be both a blessing and a curse. Those who abide by the unwritten laws and the legal regulations are on the safe side. 

The benefits of good neighbourliness do not need to be legally regulated, they are self-evident to everyone. A friendly and cooperative neighbourhood creates a good sense of community. The disadvantages of neighbourliness often arise from too little distance. Noise from neighbours can cause stress and inconvenience. Different lifestyles and habits can lead to conflicts over parking spaces, property boundaries or pets. 

If the dispute escalates, not only the sense of community suffers, but also the well-being of all involved. The Civil Code provides clarity in all matters of private law. In addition, regional ordinances and regulations apply to border disputes, building projects, noise and odour pollution. 

For example, trees, shrubs and hedges must maintain a minimum distance from the neighbouring property, which varies depending on where you live. Impairment of a property by leaf fall or by pine needles and pine cones is considered by case law to be customary in the locality. 

Regulations under building law on minimum distances serve to maintain a sufficient social distance from the neighbour. Incidentally, they only apply to the outer walls of above-ground buildings. Garages that are built completely below the ground surface are not relevant to the distance (OVG NRW, 16.04.2023. Az. 7 A 2967/21). Exceptions are also possible, for example, for the addition of balconies (OVG Berlin-Brandenburg, 26.04.2023. Az. 10 N 56/20). 

Open and respectful communication is the key to resolving neighbourhood conflicts. Address problems early on to avoid misunderstandings. Be willing to compromise in order to find common solutions. Respect privacy. 

(Photo: © Gerd Altmann, Pixabay)