Keeping it sweet on your street

Nobody’s perfect. Your neighbours might have loud raucous parties, but you might have noisy kids. They might park over your driveway, you might leave a bright light on all night that shines in their bedroom window. They might have a barking dog, while you have a marauding cat. Sometimes it’s better to just let things go.

However, if there really is a problem you should deal with it in an appropriate manner.

Problem solving

The first thing to do if you have a problem with your neighbour is to talk to them about it. That doesn’t mean storming over straight after they’ve blown all their leaf litter your way – again.

Take some time to cool down, think over what you want to say and then approach them. As they are rushing off to work in the morning is probably not a good time, nor is it a good time when they might be watching their favourite TV show at night.

Instead, arrange a mutually convenient time for a face-to-face chat. The Queensland government website has helpful tips on talking over problems with your neighbours.

Fostering friendship

Good neighbours look out for each other. If you’re going away, ask your neighbour to keep an eye on your property. Let them know you are happy to do the same for them.

If you’re baking and you need a cup of sugar, instead of going to the shop, ask your neighbour for it – then offer them a slice of the cake.

Reaching out to the people next door is a good way to foster a friendship. Organise a street party at Christmas or on Neighbour Day, Australia’s annual celebration of community. These are great opportunities to get together in a neutral location in your street, have a drink, a laugh and hopefully, forget your grievances.