Rules for Balcony Usage: What You Can and Can't Do in Your Private Space
Living in a multi-family building comes with its own set of responsibilities, and understanding balcony etiquette is crucial for harmonious coexistence with neighbours. Here's a guide to help tenants navigate potential issues and ensure a pleasant living environment.
First and foremost, it's important to remember that every neighbour has the right to live in peace and comfort. If cigarette smoke regularly enters their apartment and significantly troubles or harms their health, they have the right to complain. Similarly, the smell of cannabis entering a neighbour's apartment can also be reported as a disturbance.
When it comes to barbecuing, it's a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but it's essential to consider the impact on your neighbours. Continuous or daily barbecuing can be considered a disturbance, especially if it causes smoke or odours that travel into neighbouring apartments. Gas and electric grills are often the better choice as they smoke less or not at all and are less likely to cause disputes.
In multi-family buildings, smoking on one's own balcony is generally allowed in Germany, but not without limits. Landlords can restrict cannabis consumption in the rental agreement, and cannabis consumption is prohibited near children, youth, and within 100 meters of schools, kindergartens, or playgrounds.
Noise levels are another critical aspect of balcony etiquette. During the day, neighbours should not have to endure loud parties or noise continuously. During nighttime quiet hours (10 pm to 6 am), conversations and music on the balcony should be reduced to room volume. In case of disturbances, a friendly approach often helps.
If talking to the neighbour is unsuccessful, involving the property management or considering legal action may be necessary. In case of repeated violations, informing the property management or the landlord and, if necessary, requesting a warning is advisable. Tenants causing excessive noise can face warnings or termination of their lease by the landlord.
On a positive note, occasional barbecuing is allowed without an explicit ban in the rental agreement. Private cannabis consumption is allowed under certain conditions in Germany, including on one's own balcony. According to existing court rulings, between two and four barbecue evenings per month are considered reasonable.
In conclusion, maintaining a good relationship with neighbours is key to a pleasant living experience. By being considerate of others and respecting the rules, tenants can ensure a harmonious and peaceful coexistence in multi-family buildings.
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