On the development of the concept of neighborliness in the Russian housing Law

Abstract

The subject of this research is the relevant although poorly studied issued of neighborly relations in the Russian housing law. The authors set the goal to analyze the current legal regulation of neighborly relations in the housing sector, and substantiate the need for the development of the concept of neighborliness in the Russian housing law and legislation. Such concept aims to form the culture of living in a multifamily residential building, overcome excessive individualism that cultivates complete disunity of interests and indifference of neighbors to each other and to the fate of common property.  The authors explore the problem of neighborly relations in the housing sector, viewing neighborship from two perspectives: as a social institution of the neighborhood community and as a behavioral standard of particular subjects – neighbors. The need for the development of the concept of neighborliness is substantiated. This fully corresponds to the historical path of development of neighborly relations in the housing sector and the objective pursued by the legislator –increase the responsibility and awareness of the housing owners. The concept of neighborliness is a product of the development of the doctrine and law enforcement practice in the sphere of neighborly relations, and should become a part of the new housing policy of the Russian Federation. The concept of neighborliness includes such elements, as objective, principles, functions, and boundaries of neighborliness.