Enjoy the summer in the garden or on the balcony – for many people, music is a must. But so that you can enjoy your favorite song without any worries, you should note the following. This way there are no unpleasant surprises.
In principle, it is allowed to listen to music, watch TV or celebrate in your own garden or on the balcony. What is important, however, is how loud these activities are in order to avoid noise pollution.
Even during the day, music should not exceed the “room volume” level. However, the term “room volume” is not precisely defined by law and can be subjectively perceived differently. A volume level of 30 to 40 dB can serve as a guide, which corresponds roughly to the noise of a running refrigerator or a light rain shower.
In order to prevent conflicts, it is important to observe the legally established rest periods. These can vary depending on the federal state and municipality. There are also often individual regulations in the rental agreement. The following regulations are common:
Noisy garden work must be avoided during the specified rest periods; the use of electrical or motor-driven devices is not permitted. Conversations in the garden or on the balcony should be kept at a low volume. Music must be set so low that it can hardly be heard in the neighboring apartment, ideally under 35 decibels.
Loud dog barking or arguments are considered a disturbance. Making music is not allowed during this time. The nightly crying of a baby in a neighboring apartment must be tolerated by the other tenants.
At best, a regulation is made that takes both sides into account – the opportunity to express one’s own personality by listening to music (Basic Law for the Federal Republic of Germany, Art 2) as well as the neighbors’ right to peace and relaxation.
Open communication and clear agreements can defuse conflicts from the outset or prevent them from flaring up in the first place. Continuous strong noise nuisance can be viewed as a rental deficiency. If noise nuisance continues, a rent reduction or other legal action could be considered. Failure to comply with rest times can result in fines of up to 5,000 euros.