I have a neighbour who rides a motorcycle out from their garage, which is situated right below my bedroom (I am on the first floor, the ground floor is the garage). The noise from the bike comes through the floor and its fumes enter through my window if my windows are open. I know this is a difficult neighbour, as they have argued with other tenants over many things over the years. Does the owners corporation have the power to ask the neighbour to only start the bike at the gate? – Jenny, NSW

Q: I have a neighbour who rides a motorcycle out from their garage, which is situated right below my bedroom (I am on the first floor, the ground floor is the garage).

The noise from the bike comes through the floor and its fumes enter through my window if my windows are open.

I know this is a difficult neighbour, as they have argued with other tenants over many things over the years. Does the owners corporation have the power to ask the neighbour to only start the bike at the gate?

 

A: It would be best to check your by-laws, specifically anything around noise levels and disturbances within your strata property.

If you feel that your neighbour is breaking one or more of the by-laws, you can contact either your strata manager or strata committee. They will be able to enforce the by-law by using a contravention notice. For more information on contravention notices, click here to read our article on contravention notices.

Alternatively, although it may be difficult or intimidating, you can speak to the neighbour directly and let them know that it’s affecting you. You may be surprised by their willingness to listen and understand.