8 ways that to be a good neighbor

Hong Kong can get pretty lonely especially if you are new to the city or to your estate. Neighbors can definitely help us feel at home in our hood. It helps to have good, harmonious relations with our neighbors but sometimes we just don't know how. So, here are a few tips from LocalHood that we hope you'll find useful.

1. Say hello. A friendly smile and wave to a neighbor when you are taking the lift together or whom you meet while collecting your mail can go a long way toward creating a pleasant atmosphere. If the neighbor doesn't look too friendly it always helps to start being friends with the better half, the child or the pet...

2. Have consideration for others.

If you plan on entertaining and having music, let your neighbors know ahead of time and keep it to a reasonable volume. If you play music at home , remember to turn it off at a decent enough time instead of letting the music play until the wee hours of the morning.

3. Put rubbish/garbage properly in the refuse collection area.

Be sure to close your rubbish bag well so that rubbish is not falling or leaving a foul smell all over the refuse collection area/bin. If you accidentally drop your waste out of the bin please make sure you put it right back in the collection bin. Garbage can attract vermin, insects, and other pests, and is also unsightly. ​

4. Control your dog.

Keep your dog on a leash if it has a habit of running everywhere, especially if they have a cat or a dog of their own.Definitely make sure to clean up behind him - your pet is your responsibility. If you have a particularly noisy dog, this may also become a source of contention for your neighbor. If you have problems controlling your dog's barking or whining, consider seeking advice from your local vet or a local animal organisation (for HK for example: www.spca.org/hk)

5. Reach out.

Invite a neighbor over for a coffee or a drink. Or invite a few neighbors over for a get together. Investing some time in getting to know the neighbors will help keep relationships harmonious and make it easier to handle any problems that arise.

6. Discuss problems in person.

If a problem arises, talk to your neighbor in person first. Approach the situation in a pleasant way, "You may not have realized this, but ..." Start here rather than resorting to a nasty note or a call to the police that will be sure to permanently strain your relationship.

7.Ways to give.

Be a giver! Donate to your neighbors clothes, toys, books, etc which are in good shape. Save your cans and bottles for another family. Your neighbors will not forget this and will help you when you need something. This is a very good way to make neighbors your friends.

8.Be nice to your new neighbors.

When someone new is moving next to you, introduce yourself and welcome them.They will be thankful to you for a jug of lemonade or a cup of tea.