Privacy Issues with rentals

[Thomas2983]

Our neighbor recently became a host, wouldnt be a problem except the entire casita they are renting has a direct view into my bedroom where me and my wife get dressed. Is there some sort of responsible host code or rule that talks about the privacy of your neighbors ? Weve been living in our house for 10 years and the last month we have felt like gold fish in a fish bowl while in our bedroom.  Any help or information is appreciated.

[Fred13]

If they weren't renting, but had friends over staying in the casita, wouldn't be the same problem?

[Thomas2983]

Yes the issue has been and would be the same. I’m simply wondering if their is a “good neighbor” policy that air BnB uses in terms of respecting shared space. It seems like the answer to my question is “no”.  We have curtains, we use them and we have tried to talk with our neighbors regarding this issue before it became a rental space but have been largely ignored. Thank you for your reply

[Christina163]

Time to buy some drapes or blinds. It's your responsibility to cover your windows.

[Thomas2983]

I’m simply wondering if their is a “good neighbor” policy that air BnB uses in terms of respecting shared space. It seems like the answer to my question is “no”.  We have curtains, we use them and we have tried to talk with our neighbors regarding this issue before it became a rental space but have been largely ignored. Thank you for your reply

[Mike-And-Jane0]

@Thomas2983 how would a good neighbour policy work? Would they promise not to look in your window?

[Basha0]

if it’s been that way for years why is it an issue now? 

[Thomas2983]

It has been an issue for awhile. I’m simply wondering if their is a “good neighbor” policy that air BnB uses in terms of respecting shared space. It seems like the answer to my question is “no”.  We have curtains, we use them and we have tried to talk with our neighbors regarding this issue before it became a rental space but have been largely ignored. Thank you for your reply

[Gillian166]

@Thomas2983 

I'm not understanding why Airbnb is an issue here. 

If the neighbours can see into your bedroom then that's an issue, regardless of who is occupying the space. 

Get some curtains?  

[Christina163]

😂

[Thomas2983]

I’m simply wondering if their is a “good neighbor” policy that air BnB uses in terms of respecting shared space. It seems like the answer to my question is “no”.  We have curtains, we use them and we have tried to talk with our neighbors regarding this issue before it became a rental space but have been largely ignored. Thank you for your reply

[Helen744]

Thomas2983, neighbours can and do complain to councils,In our listing we express to the guests that they be respectful of the neighbours and dont use their parking etcetera,. Sometimes neighbours work in with hosts to 'keep an eye on the property' and maybe receive some small gifts but as guests also need privacy this is generally kept to a minimum.It is a fine line between being 'neighbourly' and being intrusive ,as you have pointed out , maybe it is time to request a fence or more substantial screening between the properties as 'privacy for both yourself and neighbours should not affect ,what is called here in Australia 'quiet enjoyment of the block''   H

[Thomas2983]

thank you for the thoughtful response.  

[Huma0]

@Thomas2983 

There is indeed a policy, but it doesn't cover your complaint at all. See:

https://www.airbnb.co.uk/help/article/3051

As you can see, it covers things like 'party houses', disruptive gatherings, excessive noise, smoking in prohibited areas, littering, obstructing neighbour's access to their homes etc.

I am afraid I really do not understand your issue at all. When you bought your home, was the casita not already there? Did it not have a view into your bedroom? What exactly has changed with the property now being rented on Airbnb, except that it could be different, rather than the same, people being able to see into your bedroom?

To be honest, I really can't see what any of this has to do with Airbnb. If you wanted total privacy, i.e. not to have to close the curtains, you should have bought/rented a property that wasn't overlooked. If the neighbouring property was built after that, then that was a planning issue and you should have contested it with the local authorities at the time.

I am not surprised your neighbours are ignoring you. What exactly is it you expect them to do?

[Thomas2983]

thank you for the link.  my issue has nothing to do with air bnb i literally was just looking for the link you posted so that i could read the rules/guidelines for myself to gain a better understanding.