Sometimes, your dream neighborhood becomes less so when the neighbors are not the best. Introducing yourself or inviting everyone for a meet-and-greet after moving in is one way to start off on the right foot. Putting names to faces can help handle disputes later. When the going gets tough, however, follow these tips: 

 

  • When you have a legitimate problem, such as noise at inconvenient hours, or someone’s car frequently blocking your driveway, speak to your neighbor in person about it. Kindly tell them your concerns and ask if there is anything, they can do to help you. If they need help to remedy the situation, offer assistance. 
     

  • Trees and other plants can cause discord between neighbors.  Unless the tree branches are diseased or hanging over your roof, the best solution may just be to leave them alone--extreme tree-trimming can cause more harm than good. 
     

  • Yards that are not mowed often, if ever, can be more than an eyesore, thanks to hiding critters.  If there is a way to discreetly find out why the homeowner is unable to keep up the yard, do so, then recruit other neighbors and offer to take care of their yard.  Sometimes, sharing city codes with the neighbor will encourage them to clean up to avoid fines.   
     

  • Noise, from you as well as your neighbor, can be absorbed by fences, a water feature, or plants that are at least six feet tall.  If the noise is truly interruptive, share your concerns with the offending neighbor, and try to compromise or come up with a solution that suits both of you. 
     

  • On the same token, when someone from next door approaches you with a concern of their own, no matter their demeanor, do your best to handle it with grace, and without becoming defensive and angry. Arguing will get nothing solved. 

 

Once the initial meeting is over, and the problem is not solved satisfactorily, taking further action may be necessary. Depending on the issue, contacting another community member or a letter to the HOA board may get results. In case of violated ordinances, a phone call to the town office may be in order, and for illegal activity, keep your observations written down and report them to authorities. Because you all live together, most neighbors want to make things right. Just remember in most situations, communication is key. 


Courtesy of New Castle County DE Realtor Tucker Robbins.