Neighbour - What can I do?

motherofstudents

I had a neighbour like this who used to knock on the wall if we made the slightest noise. We barely made a sound most of the time but she would knock if she heard anything even talking (not shouting) at 5pm. We never had loud music, arguments, parties etc. nothing at all. They, on the other hand would go out and leave teenage daughter and friends in having parties, screaming, loud music etc.

I just think it's rude to knock like that. If your neighbour has a problem, she should knock on your door. We solved the problem in the end by moving but even now, I have the tv remote to make sure it never gets too loud.

I can certainly sympathise with you and I think the suggestions about sound proofing are something to investigate. Maybe you could let us know how you get on as I think it is something that many people may find useful. Try not to let it get you down. You are not doing anything wrong.

BJV

Got to say I was thinking about your situation last night cooking well burning something for dinner and the kids where doing their best to raid the fridge.

Talking to each other has to be the way. Even if there is a complaint and even if there are legal routes you can go down, trying to sort it out amicably has to be the first option.

The last thing you want it war with the neighbours, ok it may still come to this but if there is a chance you really should try it. I know it is easy for me to say, really do feel for you! Good luck

Norman_Castle

Our house is all flooring bar my daughters room which is carpeted.

Carpets absorb noise. Rugs and soft furnishings may help a bit.

TeamMCS

I've had major problems with 'people' like this in the recent past.

Interestingly enough, one of the major causes was the person in question was going through something and decided they'd focus that energy/hate on me instead. Any opportunity to lose his rag would involve shouting, banging and even ended in violence. It became rather clear who the real problem was when said person was put in the back of a police van one night after having it out with his partner (not exactly what you expect in a middle class area at 3am on a work night)

Sadly, there's almost nothing you can do. Police may get involved if you are threatened. Council is unlikely do much unless she's !!!!ing off everyone in the area. Escalation can work against you, mediation may be better.

As someone mentioned earlier, power plays (for what ever reason, be it something personal in their lives) are quite common. Asserting your own 'right' can work but you may end up the bad guy.

Personally I'd just continue to live normally. Take up some of the suggestions you've heard (noise suppression etc). Do *not* reduce your volume or maintain and unusual quietness - that is the *biggest* mistake you can make. If you set a precedent you'll only hold yourself to it. Avoid any guilt and continue collecting evidence and reminding her (when you're calm) to keep it down and talk to you.

dawn_rose

i commented on this thread yesturday and ow my opost seems to have disappeared?