The latter manifest themselves in different ways: disturbing odor linked to garbage cans left outside, poorly managed composting, scents of cooking or frying, droppings of domestic animals or recycling center. Disorders that can be accentuated during periods of warmth like the one we are going through.
In the event of a neighborhood conflict, it is better, at first, to favor an amicable solution with the neighbor. If the method fails, then the complainant can address a justice of the peace who will work on two different ways. “”The first is the phase of peace court conciliation. The judge will intervene to try to find an amicable solution. The procedure is free, it is enough to file a letter to the justice of the peace and the conciliation is launched. The judge can go there to personally see the situation. “
The number of neighborhood conflicts explodes, +64% of cases in 5 years: “citizens are less and less tolerant of each other”
Prove the prejudice undergone
If no solution emerges, then the procedure becomes legal. During the latter, the justice of the peace reiterated the attempted conciliation of the parties. “”If necessary, the complainant will have to prove the existence of the disorder undergoes (for example by sound recordings, testimonies, expertise, editor’s note) But also to prove that the nuisance is excessive and impacts the quality of life. When the situation is objectified, the injured party can obtain financial compensation, be reimbursed for the costs incurred to return to an acceptable situation (for example, soundproofing a wall or pruning and evacuating branches) “she says.
Odors amplified with heat
The year 2022 had marked an exceptional peak in the number of files (see infographic). Successive confinements, teleworking, school closures have led to an explosion in the number of files. The situation tends to stabilize but the level remains higher than the pre-Cavid period.
Finally, several solutions exist before considering legal action. Unia, the Belgian Equal Opportunities Institute, recommends soliciting the victims assistance service or the local police, even without filing a complaint. “The neighborhood agent also represents a precious appeal. Responsible for preserving living together and preventing conflicts, he can intervene in the event of harassment between neighbors and propose mediation solutions, regardless of any police procedure”concludes Unia.
