Being a good neighbor is a matter of human interaction

Is it possible to live in close quarters and maintain a good relationship with neighbors? Sometimes, two parties can be the most agreeable people in the world and it still won’t matter. When neighborly issues come up and styles of living are different, how does one cope?

When Human Interaction Goes South

Sometimes, a relationship between two neighbors comes down to more than simply human interaction. It can also become about rights and boundaries. And it’s not just a physical fence line type of boundary but, rather, boundaries that constitute what is acceptable behavior and what borders on annoyance. For example, two neighbors might otherwise get along very well and their moments of human interaction are pleasant, even friendly. But if one is a party animal and constantly has people over and the other is a homebody who likes peace and quiet in the evening, there are bound to be issues that will come up.

Resolving Disputes Amicably

Being a good neighbor does not necessarily mean being best friends or even having that much in common, instead, it is about respect and being able to resolve any disputes amicably. Disputes might come from a difference in living styles or a preference for a particular thing or even a tolerance of prolonged renovations – as examples of just some situations that might cause relations between neighbors to sour. Resolving land disputes amicably, for example, is possible, especially if both neighbors are both open to compromise and communicate respectfully with each other. It is important that neither party is made to feel like the villain or feel victimized. A little human interaction can go a long way, speaking to each other about the problem in measured terms and an open manner rather than going over the other’s head by going to the neighborhood association can avoid ugly situations. If a clear consensus cannot be reached, both parties can mutually decide to approach an external body, like a condo or neighborhood association, to decide fairly what is in the best interests of the neighborhood as a whole, rather than making it feel personal.

Keeping a clear line of communication open is always the best course of action.

However, if things do not improve, there is a precedent to classify a neighbor’s consistent irritating behavior as “nuisance“. A person’s rights as a neighbor mean that they don’t have to necessarily put up with constant annoyances over time. However, because it is a legal term and covered by law, there has to be an argument that shows that the behavior is unreasonable, detracting from your (and others’) enjoyment of the collective property. When it comes to the law of nuisance, a distinct “social” cost has to be present.