Inform neighbors about construction plans before building?

I am just unsure whether I should already hint that there will be bans.

Well, you can just start by introducing yourselves without obligation. Mention that at some point there could be a ban. By the way, flyers were always distributed to us when we were invited to the topping-out ceremony.

Quintessenz: You make it easy for your new neighbors to welcome you if you take the opportunity for open communication. In person is better than a letter despite Corona.

You can do it, but you don't have to. It's up to you. If you write a nice letter, you run the risk that many long-established [alteingessene] feel compelled to interfere or take a closer look.

At that time, I went to the direct neighbors, rang the doorbell, and briefly introduced ourselves. I announced the renovation (and at the same time learned who was also currently renovating) and apologized in advance for the noise. This immediately led to a conversation and a bit of "getting to know each other"; luckily, they also found us likable right away^^. I also said that if we were too loud, they should just let us know. That was well received. By the way, I also briefly introduced ourselves by notice in every rental apartment and apologized in advance for the noise during the move-in, which was also always very well received!

We were then also offered help or tools if we ever needed them. I think everyone understands a closure that can be bypassed, even if it might not be a pleasure.

We have already introduced ourselves to the neighbor (we only have one direct neighbor) when buying the property. During the planning phase, we always kept him informed. That was also a good thing. This way, we were able to find joint solutions and, for example, during the construction phase, we were allowed to excavate half of his property... In the meantime, the relationship is great. We help each other, we get fresh eggs, vegetables, etc. from them. I can only recommend establishing contact early.

Before our major renovation, we also went by the immediate neighbors, the ones next to them, and those across the street (a total of 8 houses) to say hello and leave a small note with contact information. In hindsight, that was perfect. After 5 years, we now have a warm relationship with some of them, and at least a friendly, nice one with all the others. We also explicitly invited these families to the topping-out ceremony later on. We would do it that way again.