Guide to communicating with your neighbours

Here are some tips that can help improve communication with your neighbours, and may help you to address issues before they become conflicts:

Tip #1 – Talk with your neighbours

Staying connected and talking can reduce issues between neighbours and within your neighbourhood.

  • If you are planning on doing something that might impact your neighbours, talk to them ahead of time.
  • If you have a concern over an activity, it is not helpful to assume your neighbour knows there is a problem. Sometimes they may be unaware, and talking to them may avoid a conflict that may be the result of a simple misunderstanding.

Tip #2 – Listen to your neighbour’s concerns

When your neighbour expresses a concern, take it seriously even if it seems unimportant to you. When people feel heard and understood, it is easier to work through a problem.

Tip #3 – Focus on the problem, not the person

Try to focus on the problem rather than on the person.

Tip #4 – Connect with your neighbours before contacting by-law

Attempts to talk or write to your neighbour should be made before calling the By-law Enforcement team. Be calm and state the impact your neighbour’s actions are having in a clear, friendly manner.

Filling out a log or diary can be beneficial to provide accurate information to by-law.