

Either that, or perhaps it was the dream where I get to throttle the users who don't know how to use their devices. (Consult the National Association of Community Mediation for a mediator near you.) Mediation won’t assign blame it will try to help you find a win-win so each of you gets what you need to live more harmoniously.1:59 am, I am slumbering peacefully, dreaming beautiful dreams of users who actually know how to use their devices. Assuming your neighbor isn’t a sociopath, consider using a mediator to help resolve your differences. You probably will not get the long-term solution you seek (a cooperative neighbor) and you may even make matters worse (a more pissed-off neighbor).
Neighbors from hell stories windows#
If calling the police is your idea of a good solution, think again-unless the neighbor is using your windows for target practice or you feel personally in danger. The neighbor with hard evidence of harassment or infractions is always in a better position with authorities (the homeowner's association or the municipality), than the out-of-control nut who rants. It may sound extreme, but you may want to consider installing a surveillance camera. If a problem persists, keep a journal of dates and times of ongoing offenses. The neighbor can be fined for non-compliance and probably won’t appreciate your interference.

If talking about your concerns in person with your neighbor doesn’t work (always the first step), call the authorities and file a complaint with your local police, homeowners association, or county office. What are the regulations for noise, junk cars, unmowed lawns, and trash in your municipality or homeowners’ association? (You can go to your local city or county homepage or try a site like .) Knowledge is power.

Or it may be because someone is ill or recently widowed. The overgrown yard next door may be the result of sloppy neighbors. If they don’t, politely ask if they can take the dog in by 10 P.M. And we hope Fido isn’t bothering you at night.” If your neighbor does open the door for conversation, state your concern. I know my car rattles a little, but I hope I’m not disturbing you when I pull out of my driveway.” This leaves the door open for the neighbor to say, ”No problem. Example: “I usually leave for work around 5:30 A.M. Rather, try the “I care about you, so I hope you care about me” approach once the irritating situation is past. Never try to reason with a neighbor while their dog is howling at the moon after midnight. (And the kids won’t think you’re the old crank who won’t let them retrieve fly balls from the backyard!) Familiarity can go a long way in defusing future problems. If you’re new to a neighborhood or have lived there 35 years and have seen turnover with new families, introduce yourself and then say "hi" to everyone by name, even the young kids, whenever you see them. Bottom line, think about your needs before diving into a neighborhood where you’re odd man out. If having cars in front of your house bugs you, don’t live near a popular park. If the noise of kids playing irritates you, you‘ll probably be unhappy in a neighborhood of young families. Since this time of life is often about downsizing and moving, really assess the area around your new house or apartment.
