WHAT ARE THE ETIQUETTE RULES FOR A PEACEFUL NEIGHBOURHOOD?

Just like the theme song from Neighbours goes, everybody needs good neighbours… They can keep an eye on your home when you’re on holiday, loan you tools when you need them or host the street Christmas party.

But there’s a fine line between being a recluse and invading someone’s personal space. So, how do you start the relationship on the right foot?

Making the first move. Traditionally, neighbours would welcome you to the neighbourhood with a homemade cake. But if the smell of baked goods is missing from your neck of the woods, why not knock on the door and invite them around for a cuppa? Or put a note in their letterbox saying, ‘Hi, my name is … I’ve just moved in next door. Would you like to come over for a coffee?’.

How much interaction is okay? Don’t overstep the mark and barge in straight in. It’s better to feel your way with people and it’ll work out. Often kids will bring neighbours together and can set the tone for the next few years.

Avoid potential road bumps. Neighbourly relationships can be tested by many things including parties, barking dogs or planned renovations. The key thing is to be considerate of those around you. For example… Make sure your neighbours that your renovations have Council approval, and once they’re underway, keep them in the loop about anything that’s going to affect them like noise and dust.

If you’re planning a party, let them know details in advance like when the music will be turned down. And make sure you stick to your plan. Dogs can also cause friction between neighbours. Legally, you can keep a dog in your yard and walk it in your street on a lead. But sometimes it’s worth going the extra mile. For example, if your neighbour is scared of dogs, don’t walk your dog on that side of the road.