Anyone who is used to apartment living knows the score: neighbors can be a pain. We cannot choose our neighbors, that’s for sure, and sometimes we get stuck with some real characters. Here are a few of the types we’ve come across, and how to deal with them:
The Talker.
It’s gotten to the point where you’re afraid to walk the dog, check the mail, or step outside for a cigarette. If you do, you’ll be out there for an hour talking to…the neighbor. Let’s face it: some people are so talkative or lonely that they will look for anything to talk about, and they can discuss it for hours. The best way to deal with them? Whatever you’re doing, just keep on walking! If the neighbor spots you lighting a cigarette or bumps into you in the laundry room, simply explain that you have to get back inside. Your dinner is burning, your kids are alone, your spouse is sick – whatever!
The Borrower.
“Hi, sorry to bother you. I’m making a pie and I just need four spoons of sugar. It’s such a small amount that I hate to run out to the store just for that. Do you have any?”
“Sorry, do you happen to have a spare lightbulb? Ours just blew and you know how it is.”
“Me again. Can we borrow your vacuum today?”
Sometimes you just want to yell at these people, “GET YOUR OWN STUFF!!!” The problem is, if you’re at all polite, you can easily become a pushover when it comes to that neighbor who just can’t stop borrowing things. Here’s how to deal: The next time this borrowing neighbor asks to use something, very politely tell them that you need it back immediately, preferably that same day or night. If the neighbor agrees and it seems like you’re not going to get it back same-day, simply go over and retrieve it yourself. Don’t be rude; just take back what is yours. They’ll get the hint.
The Visitor.
Knock-knock-knock.
Uh-oh…it’s the neighbor again. Whether it’s a lonely housewife who likes to crochet while talking to you, a teenager who loves your new Xbox, or the couple who are just thrilled that you’re another young couple who lives just a few doors over, many renters experience those neighbors who just invite themselves right on over. You can’t pretend to not be home forever. A good way to deal with neighbors like these are to gently expain that you’re busy at the moment, and could you set up a date to visit instead? If they’re sane, they will understand and most likely leave you be.
The Favor-Asker.
“Can you watch my toddler for just an hour? I have class.”
“Can you walk our dog while we’re on our cruise?”
“Can you grab our mail while we’re out of town?”
Ugh! If it’s something you don’t mind, like checking their mail, fine. If the favors begin to eat into your time, nip it in the bud. If you do a favor and then they ask again, explain that it was okay the first time, but you really don’t want it to become a regular thing. They will get the hint.
The Noisemakers.
There’s nothing like the boom-boom-boom of a stereo at 4 a.m. when you have to get up for work at 7 a.m. Or what about the neighbors who sleep with their TV on? Or the couple who constantly get into screaming matches, or the guy who likes to sing loudly in the shower, or the old lady with the tiny barking dog? Being comfortable and satisfied inside your own home is your right. The only way to deal with the noise is to straightforwardly address it. Go to the neighbor and very politely explain to them that their music, TV, dog, fights, singing, or whatever else is keeping you awake or bothering you. Most neighbors will apologize and be more careful. If that’s not the case, then you should report them to your complex’s authorities. Don’t be afraid of the confrontation – after all, it’s your home.
The Psycho.
Once in awhile, there will be that crazy neighbor who marches to your door and complains about you being noisy. He or she insists that you’re keeping them awake or bothering them. They are angry most of the time, but sometimes not. You’re surprised because you think of yourself as actually kind of quiet.
What do you do?
First off, REALLY think about it. Could you unwittingly be making lots of noise? Ask yourself if you’re playing music, watching TV too loudly, having loud guests over, or wearing high heels after 9 p.m. Does your washer/dryer, shower/tub, or dishwasher make lots of noise? Consider everything and anything that could prove them right. If you find something, then you should stop. If you rack your brain and cannot come up with an answer, explain to the neighbor that you honestly are being quiet. (I once had a neighbor who told me if I didn’t shut my dog up, he would shoot it. I did not have a dog or any other pet.) If the neighbor persists, take the matter up with your complex’s authorities.
For more information on renting and renters insurance, contact us. We’re WT Flynn, an independent insurance agency based in Framingham, Massachusetts.
Comments(0)