Is making loud noise during renovations illegal?

Renovating or repairing a house often involves noise, right? Especially in townhouses or commercial buildings with shared walls or adjacent units, hammering can cause vibrations throughout the neighborhood. This raises the question: is such noise illegal? Does it infringe on the privacy of other residents? This question benefits both those planning renovations and those affected.

Let's look at an example, but this one isn't about house repairs. It concerns an individual whose neighborhood is a large furniture manufacturing area. The buildings are connected, and not every unit is involved in furniture production. Those not involved in the business are disturbed by the noise of sawing or the loud radio played by the workers. Does this constitute a violation of privacy?

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Normally, the law states that individuals have the right and freedom to engage in occupation and pursue recreation as long as it doesn't violate the law. Engaging in furniture manufacturing and playing loud music for entertainment isn't illegal. Therefore, everyone has the right to work and play music as they please.

However, exercising a right in a way that causes harm to others is unlawful. This constitutes a violation, and those who suffer damage have the right to sue in court for an injunction and compensation.

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If we consider the case of a commercial building that is not specifically a residential building, using a chainsaw or playing loud music is considered normal commercial activity. The law considers this an exercise of rights, but it is not considered to cause damage to others or to the detriment of neighboring residents beyond reasonable cause.

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However, if the noise is not for normal commercial purposes, such as during hours when most shops are closed for rest, it would be considered an abuse of rights. Neighbors who suffer the disturbance have the right to sue in court for an injunction and compensation.

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Now, let's return to the topic of home repairs and renovations. Repairing or renovating a house during the day is permissible and not illegal. However, it is definitely not advisable at night. If dust or chemicals are released and affect neighboring properties, this is illegal. Ideally, if you live in a housing development, you should obtain permission from the project developer beforehand and inform your neighbors. Or, even better, obtain a building permit (for construction, demolition, renovation, or alteration) from the district office to avoid problems later.

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Thank you for the helpful information from HOME.