Can you grill, smoke, and sunbathe naked on your balcony? Both yes and no, says the expert who tries to clarify what applies for a smooth balcony life this summer.
There are certain differences between the rules for condominiums and rental apartments. But for comfort on the balcony, roughly the same rules apply, according to Andrés Hammar, a property lawyer at the housing cooperative HSB.
You should have common sense and show consideration for your neighbors, he says.
What about plants?
The most common question in these contexts has to do with flower boxes. It matters whether you put them on the outside of the balcony where they can fall and become a safety risk. Another problem when you water is that it can run down to the neighboring balcony. Then conflicts can arise if you have hung out your rugs or laundry that gets dirty. It's about consideration; if you have flowers that need watering, maybe you can have a plate underneath.
Can you grill on the balcony?
At the bottom, it's up to each individual association to set up a set of rules for how they want it. There are different ways to grill, and an electric grill may not be as dangerous as a charcoal grill, considering the risk of fire, for example. In some associations, you're not allowed to grill at all due to the risk of fire or simply because of food odors.
Can you smoke?
Yes, you can. On the rental side, there may be allergy-free buildings where you're not allowed to smoke, but then you've signed an agreement to comply with it. On the condominium side, there's no equivalent. It would take a lot for it to be grounds for some kind of coercive measure. It would be if someone almost intentionally makes sure the smoke reaches a specific neighbor.
Can you sunbathe naked on the balcony?
It depends on how secluded you are from neighbors and the public, and how serious and intentional it is. If it's so that no one can see and you're lying somewhat secluded, then it's no big deal. But if you're visible and someone takes offense, it could become something to question. Then you could be guilty of offensive behavior.
Is it okay to play loud music?
It's not a yes or no question, but rather depends on the condominium association's potential rules – how loud the music is played, how often, and if someone is disturbed or not. Playing loud music on the balcony on a single occasion can naturally be perceived as disturbing for neighbors who planned a quiet evening, but it's not as serious as playing loud music every day despite protests from the surroundings.
