Home Additions Can Make Your Neighbors Not So Happy! Here’s How to Keep Them Happy!
6 Things You Can Do to Keep Your Neighbors Happy During Your Home Remodel
As exciting as a home remodel is to you, it’s just as noisy, dirty, and disruptive to your neighbors. The last thing you want to do is look like a disrespectful and uncaring neighbor, so use the following tips to keep your neighbors happy while your remodeling project is underway.
Talk to Your Neighbors
Before construction begins, it’s a good idea to let your neighbors know what your plans are and what they can expect. Visit all nearby neighbors and bring along your building plans to show them what’s taking place. This is especially important if their view will be drastically changed once your remodeling project is complete. Take into consideration any reservations they may have and try to reach a compromise. Of course, if your plans are reasonable and legal, you don’t have to bother with your neighbor’s concerns, but as a good neighbor, you want to ensure a tolerable relationship with everyone once the construction is complete.
Be Honest
Don’t sugar-coat the facts. Be honest with your neighbors about the time frame of the project. Let them know what times of the day will be noisiest and when the project should be finished. Be sure to tell your neighbors to be honest with you, too. If something is bothering them that you may not be aware of, they should let you know so you can rectify the situation.
Be Empathetic to Your Neighbors’ Needs
Put yourself in your neighbors’ shoes. While you intend to go ahead with the construction project no matter what, maintaining a cordial relationship with your neighbors is important, too. If you know something would bother you, assume it will bother your neighbors, too. Make sure any debris that lands in your neighbors’ yards is cleaned up promptly and that all work vehicles do not block their properties. Try to keep dumpsters out of sight as much as possible as well.
Be Available
Give your neighbors a way to contact you directly with their concerns – a phone number or email is best. Make sure they know they can contact you anytime.
Solve Your Neighbors’ Problems for Them
If you know your remodel project may be a problem for your neighbor, anticipate this and try to help them solve the issues before they become big problems. For example, if the dust from your project covers their vehicles, offer to pay for weekly car washes while the project is going on.
Be Gracious
Above all else, be gracious to your neighbors for their patience and understanding. Once the renovations are complete, show a gesture of your gratitude such as hosting an open house or cocktail party or delivering a small gift to show how much you appreciate them.
When it comes to remodeling your home, it’s likely your neighbors will be less excited about it than you are. To help alleviate their concerns and show them that you care about their feelings, follow the tips listed above so they’ll stay happy while the work is underway.