Trespass in Westland Apartments: Neighbours and Common Areas
In the densely populated flats of Westland, such as in Naaldwijk, Kwintsheul, or Monster, trespass often plays a subtle role in neighbour disputes related to horticulture and common areas. Neighbours may never enter private spaces without permission, even under the pretext of 'checking for leaks' or 'noise pollution from greenhouses'. Article 138 of the Dutch Penal Code (Sr) also classifies balconies and storage rooms as part of the 'dwelling', even in this agro-urban municipality.
Common vs. Private Spaces in Westland
| Space | Rule |
|---|---|
| Common hallway/staircase in apartment building | Freely accessible, no trespass |
| Private balcony with Westland views | Only with explicit permission |
| Personal storage (e.g., for gardening tools) | Full personal domicile rights |
Neighbour Disputes and Practical Solutions in Westland
- Direct verbal demand: 'Leave my private space immediately!'
- Call the Westland police in case of refusal or repeated offences.
- Owners' Association (VvE) rules: No free pass, despite local horticultural norms.
The District Court of The Hague (2023) convicted a Westland neighbour for unlawful entry onto a balcony in Poeldijk due to alleged nuisance from a ventilator. As a tenant in an Owners' Association complex: review your rental agreement, deed of subdivision, and Westland municipal regulations. Prevention: install locks and cameras with VvE approval, ideal for protecting against break-ins in storage rooms filled with seasonal tools.
This way, you prevent escalation in vibrant Westland and effectively maintain your privacy.