How to Make Nice with your Neighbours for a Smooth Subdivision Process
If you’re planning a subdivision, chances are you’re going to have some input, discussion and possibly disagreements with your neighbours. Whether for consent or courtesy,
it’s always wise to try to get along with people affected by your project. Here’s some tips from the land subdivision specialists at Tararua Land Surveyors to make nice with your neighbours.
Before the subdivision starts
Before the mini digger contractors arrive, talk to nearby neighbours and tell them your land development plans. Pop over with a coffee and start a casual chat about your project. Even if you expect them to get up in arms, it’s best to begin informally rather than bombard them with lawyers. Hopefully the heads up will be appreciated, but if they have any reservations you will know about them from the outset.
Ease their mind
Neighbours worry about how the finished project will affect their home. Will it block their view? Interrupt their privacy? Block their sunshine? Proving that your plans will minimally affect their dwelling and lifestyle will go a long way towards appeasing them.
Another common concern is the disruption caused by the subdivision construction. Will it be noisy, messy and never-ending? Reassure them that your project is well planned out and that you are using a reputable and experienced land surveying company.
Finally, give them a say. If neighbours make suggestions about how your subdivision can bother them less or fit in with the neighbourhood better, take stock. You don’t have to concede every point, but consider their objections and see if they hold any merit.
Will you need the consent?
Sometimes, it’s just nice to keep neighbours informed on the subdivision next door. Other times, you’ll need their approval. Your land surveyor might find that an incorrectly placed driveway requires a boundary adjustment. Perhaps you need to connect services past their house or you want to build closer to the boundary than the zoning rules allow.
When these situations arise, happy neighbours are far more likely to offer their consent for an issue that could otherwise delay or ruin your plans.
Post-project behaviour
Hopefully, keeping your neighbour in the loop worked to your advantage, your subdivision is complete and everyone’s happy. But if you did butt heads along the way, now’s the time to mend the relationship.
Thank your neighbour for their input and support, perhaps drop off a bottle of wine or take them out for dinner. If they were a thorn in your side, move on and return to civility with a friendly wave. The subdivision is over but you still have to live next to each other.
The subdivision specialists at Tararua Surveyors understand the importance of keeping the neighbourhood happy. For professional land development services in Wellington, Levin, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, Poirua and the Kapiti Coast, give us a ring - 04 524 9010.