Russians warned against taking arbitrary action against their neighbors' trash

Lawyer Spiridonova: Actions to combat neighbors' trash must be legal.

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The Russian State Duma previously issued a statement declaring that residents of apartment buildings do not have the right to throw their neighbors' belongings out of their building entrances, even if they are in their way. In an interview with Rossiyskaya Gazeta, lawyer Maria Spiridonova explained what to do in such situations.

According to the publication's source, corridors and other spaces in an apartment building are part of the owners' common property and must be used in a manner that ensures free access and safety for all residents.

As Spiridonova noted, if neighbors' personal belongings are obstructing access, it's best to first try to resolve the issue peacefully by sending a written notice requesting their removal. If this doesn't work, the lawyer advises contacting the management company or homeowners' association, which are obligated to take action. She also pointed out that in the event of a security threat or significant access restriction, it's permissible to appeal to the housing and utilities authorities or the courts.

The lawyer warned that the unauthorized removal, disposal, damage, or appropriation of someone else's property may entail civil or criminal liability under Articles 1064 and 1066 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation and Articles 158 and 330 of the Criminal Code of the Russian Federation. Therefore, any actions must be legal and carried out either with the consent of the owner or on the basis of a court decision.