With the arrival of summer, swimming pools in residential complexes across Spain become popular spots for relaxation and socializing. However, this is also the season when disputes among neighbors are most common, often related to noise, misuse of pool rules, and other inconveniences.
The most frequent issues include loud music, shouting, ball games, and other activities that disturb residents, especially in the evenings and at night. Another common complaint is the improper use of shared areas—for example, when someone occupies sunbeds or umbrellas for a long time, preventing others from using them.
Another frequent source of disagreements is the large number of guests invited by residents. When the number of visitors exceeds reasonable limits, it leads to overcrowding in the pool and dissatisfaction among other residents. To prevent such situations, many communities set a maximum number of guests and introduce special passes for visitors.
Poolside parties are another cause of conflict. If an event is not approved by the residents or takes place outside of permitted hours, it can disturb neighbors. At the same time, if a party is approved at a community meeting, the situation is perceived differently.
Spain does not have a unified law regulating the use of communal swimming pools, so each homeowners’ association develops its own internal rules. These typically cover pool opening hours, noise restrictions, hygiene requirements (such as mandatory showers before swimming), and prohibit smoking, the use of glassware, and running in the pool area.
To effectively inform residents about the rules, various methods are used: posting notices, sending emails, and holding meetings. All decisions made at meetings must be communicated to all owners.
If a conflict arises, for example, if someone uses the pool after closing hours and disturbs others, it is recommended to first speak to the offender directly. If the situation does not change, the issue should be reported to the community president, who is obliged to formally demand that the violations stop. If these demands are ignored, an extraordinary meeting may be called to discuss further actions, up to filing a lawsuit.
According to Spanish law, if a homeowners’ association files a lawsuit with evidence of an official warning and a meeting resolution, the court can temporarily ban the offender from using the pool. In case of repeated violations, more serious measures are possible, including revoking the right to use the property for up to three years or even eviction if the offender is not the owner.
In some complexes, a lifeguard is on duty to ensure safety in the water and compliance with basic rules. However, their job is not to mediate disputes between residents, but to maintain order and respond to emergencies. The responsibility for maintaining good neighborly relations lies with the residents themselves.
Thus, to maintain a calm atmosphere by the pool, it is important to follow internal regulations, respect neighbors’ interests, and resolve issues through dialogue and official procedures designed for such cases.
