DUWO

Noise nuisance
Noise nuisance caused by the neighbours or others in the area can be extremely disruptive. It is especially important to consider your neighbours in densely populated areas. The general rule is that there should be ‘silence’ between 23:00 and 08:00. 

Aside from traffic and airplanes, noisy neighbours are one of the most significant forms of noise nuisance. Of course, it is irritating when you are disturbed by your neighbours being excessively noisy, and it is equally annoying if you create undue noise that disturbs them. It is surprising how often a friendly chat can help in solving such a dispute. If you are planning on throwing a party, let your neighbours know in advance – this can help to avoid a lot of irritation later. You should also let DUWO know that you are planning a party so that we can provide you with all the information you need to organise a safe and successful event.
If the event is on a larger scale than a small get-together or drinks with some friends, prior consent from DUWO is always required.

Should others be causing a nuisance, we suggest that you first take time to calm down and then approach the person to discuss the matter. In most cases, the person who caused the nuisance may not even be fully aware of the level of disturbance they were causing.
If you are not able to resolve the issue, contact a DUWO Social Warden or if necessary, the police.

It is a good idea to come to agreements with your neighbours regarding when music or musical instruments can be played. When possible, try to use headphones to minimise disturbance. Obviously, some types of musical instrument are not suitable for use in your accommodation – practising the drums or the tuba in a standard living situation is clearly unacceptable. Discuss matters with DUWO in advance and make sure that you primarily remain in good contact with your neighbours. If you are not able to reach a solution together with you neighbour, contact a DUWO Social Warden. The police should also be informed in the case of serious nuisance cases.

Damage to the communal areas
The use of communal areas is included in the rent, but this also means that you are responsible for them as is each individual tenant. If the communal area in a student complex or living community is damaged, DUWO will hold all members of the residence unit jointly and severally liable. That means that each group member will be held individually accountable for the damage that has been caused. However, this doesn’t mean that every tenant will have to pay the full amount claimed – the aim is to encourage tenants to agree how the payment should be divided amongst themselves. If one tenant pays the amount claimed in full, the others are no longer obliged to pay. The communal area is also inspected when a tenant moves out, and the tenant that is moving house may be held responsible for any damage found.

Pets
In principle, pets such as cats, dogs and rabbits are not permitted. If you have a pet or are considering buying one, remember to first discuss this with DUWO in order to avoid difficulties later.