Moving to a new house can be exciting. You get to interact with new people and meet neighbors as well. The last thing you need is to have issues with your neighbors barking dogs, unkempt lawns, loud music all night, and illegal businesses. You cannot choose the type of neighbors you want, and as such, you have to find lasting solutions to stay in peace. This can only be achieved if the neighbor is open to listening and changing their behaviors. Here are 4 tips to handle issues with your neighbors.
Communication
Before taking the initiative to report your neighbor to the authorities or house management, consider addressing the issue with them first. Communication has always worked magic in conflict resolutions, even when dealing with noisy neighbors who make sleeping unbearable for you. You might be surprised to find out that your neighbor is not aware of the disturbance they have been causing you. Ensure you are calm and respectful when expressing your views to the neighbor. You can choose to face them, send an email, a note, or a message.
Compromise when Necessary
When you decide to confront your neighbor about the problem, ensure you have a long-term solution to avoid repetition of these problems. Consider both parties and compromise on your side because you can’t change how they live. You should find common ground with your neighbor and be open to suggestions. If they enjoy loud music, you can suggest they soundproof their house. If the issue is smoking, you can agree they can smoke elsewhere to avoid the disturbance. It will bring harmony to the place, and everyone will live in peace. If they can’t compromise, then you can take legal action.
Document the Problem
Observe and keep records of the problem at hand. Take notes, dates, times, and photos of the issues with the neighbor. This will help you gauge if the problem is too much and will be proof when you report it to the police. Sometimes, the neighbor might not know that the loud dog barking is a nuisance to you. Showing them the records can make them understand the issue. This can help you find a solution to the different issues. You can also record the time and what you communicate with your neighbor when looking for a solution. If the neighbor will not change, and you decide to report to authorities, the records of dates and times can show the seriousness of the issues and that the neighbor has ignored your claims.
Consider Escalating the Issue
If all else fails, consider escalating the matter. The severity of the issue and your location will determine who to contact. Police or property managers are the best line of action if you are dealing with a significant issue like noise pollution or harassment. However, before escalating the matter, ensure you have collected enough evidence and have given your neighbor ample notice to change. Consider the long-term effect of escalating, as it may damage the relationship further.
Many people love having good neighbors, which is not always the case. You can peacefully solve your conflicts by communicating, involving a mediator, recording the issue, and compromising. Ensure you find lasting solutions to the problems.