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Christmas is the time of the year families get together, overeat and have fun, which is why one company is warning if you live in an apartment or townhouse, it is important to show consideration to your neighbours.
If gatherings this season get loud and noisy, it is essential to keep strata living etiquette in mind, Archers the Strata Professionals partner Grant Mifsud said.
“Living in a community where people are close to their neighbours makes it important for strata residents to show consideration and make sure they adhere to the strata community by-laws,” Mr Mifsud said.
If a resident plans to host a significant event at their unit or townhouse during the holidays, it is kind to let neighbours know ahead of time, he said.
“If there are smokers coming, be conscious of any restrictions and mindful of smoke drifting into neighbouring homes. The golden rule in strata is ‘do unto others as you would have them do unto you’.”
While decorating your entrance with Christmas lights and decorations is part of the season’s festivities, it could be an action that could trigger community tensions.
“Christmas light decorating is a tradition that many enjoy at this time of year, but residents putting them up need to ensure they are not irritating their neighbours,” Mr Mifsud said.
“Lights hanging off balconies may flash all night long into your neighbour’s bedrooms. Residents should also check their strata by-laws to see if there are any restrictions around where you can place your Christmas decorations, particularly in common hallways and foyers.”
Other tips from Mr Mifsud include:
- If you have visitors, make sure they park thoughtfully and don’t block access for other residents or visitors.
- Be considerate when using shared facilities such as a swimming pool or barbecue common area. Do not let intoxicated guests disturb the peace, and make sure you clear up after your event.
- Watch the noise levels. There will be by-laws requiring any noise able to be heard by neighbours to end at a particular time, usually 10pm. Avoid any clatter and stomping from dancing or party shenanigans disturbing the occupants of the unit below and neighbouring units.
- Be considerate with the garbage. Do not be the person who tosses the prawn shells into the garbage chute late on Christmas night, knowing the bins won’t be collected for days or throw all the empty bottles out in the middle of the night after the party. Wrap any leftover seafood scraps in newspaper and freeze them until the night before collection and walk the empty bottles down to the recycle bin.
“These simple rules should help maintain peace and harmony in strata communities during the season of goodwill,” Mr Mifsud said.
