Renovations That You Should Probably Warn Your Neighbors About

What makes a good neighbor? Lending someone a cup of sugar? House-sitting while they're away for the weekend? All true, but perhaps the most important thing a good neighbor can do is keep the noise down. In the midst of all the chaos of your home renovation, it's possible to forget about your neighbors and their needs. It's common courtesy to warn your neighbors ahead of time for certain projects you will be undertaking that may bother or inconvenience them. This prevents any bad blood between you and your neighbors (and having to find a new house sitter).

Of course, you don't need to keep them up-to-date on every home improvement project you take on. It's just important to know which renovations to warn your neighbors about when the time comes. To save you from coming across as rude and inconsiderate, Brick Underground suggests writing your neighbors a letter. This will let them know about the project and allow them to contact you if they have any concerns. Should your neighbors ever take on a similar project, we can only hope they extend the same courtesy to you.

Have you ever been neck deep in a home improvement project that just seems endless? It may feel like the noise, dust, and debris are going to last forever, but remember, you're not the only one experiencing frustrations. Your neighbors have to endure the noise and the sawdust too. According to Bob Vila, the neighborhood's curb appeal takes a nosedive when your home or yard become littered with construction materials. To avoid complaints from your neighbors, give them a heads up about the renovation project and how long you expect the construction to last.

While you're thrilled about your new patio or second-story balcony, your neighbors might not share that same excitement. These new additions can block the sun from reaching their yard, and ruin the nice views they have. Depending on the placement, you may even block their security cameras, which isn't only annoying, but potentially dangerous. If you want to keep peace between you and the residents next door, Bob Vila recommends asking your contractor if there is a way you can have your new balcony without taking anything away from them.

When it comes to removing trees, it can be tricky when the tree is straddling the property line. There are some cases where the tree lies between your yard and your neighbor's, which can start an argument when it comes time to cut it down. To clear up any confusion, Nolo states the owner of the tree is the person whose yard contains the trunk. If you plan to remove your neighbor's tree without speaking to them, be prepared to compensate them for discarding their property.

Before you spice up your front yard with a swimming pool or gazebo, check in with your neighbors first. These things can also ruin the neighborhood's curb appeal and upset residents. If you speak with the rest of the neighborhood and the consensus is positive, go ahead with the renovation; however, Crystal Pools recommends you minimize construction as much as possible to not interfere with your neighbor's property. If the consensus is negative, maybe rethink your plan and install your pool or other upgrades to the backyard where your neighbors can't see.