When neighbors are noisy, here’s what to do
Q: Your neighbors host friends on nights and weekends — frequently. You’ve already asked them to keep it down once or twice, but music and loud partygoers are still keeping you up. What should you do?
As much as we want to be hospitable and let our neighbors enjoy their event, if it’s on a weekly basis, then we have a problem.
I always think treading softly is best at first.
If that doesn’t work, then it has to be taken to the next level. Write a letter to them, or if they are renting, contact the leasing agent for the property, as they are probably in violation of their lease.
On occasion, we find neighbors who have no regard for anyone and who will do what they want. At this point, I would contact your city’s noise abatement officer and ask him or her to get involved.
1. Approach the head of the family. When there are young adults who take over the property during their parents’ absence, thoughtless behavior can occur.
2. During this personal conversation, you need to be composed and nonjudgmental. 3. If the personal conversation doesn’t help, write a very polite letter to the head of the house explaining how the disturbance affects us.
4. Our last resort would be to contact the landlord, manager or head of the homeowners association. Do not forget to indicate that you really do not mind the neighbors having a little fun, because you do not want to be perceived as a petty complainer. — Maryanne Parker, founder and consultant, Manor of Manners Haley Hinkle is a freelancer.