For example, to maintain a lawn space, talk with your neighbor about rotating mowing duties each week.
If you can’t do this maintenance on your own, consider hiring a professional lawn service.
Most waste companies have very particular policies regarding what types of trash they will pick up and how it must be set out. For example, it may not be enough to simply place large branches by the curb of your house. You might need to cut and tie them into bundles. Following the local trash rules also helps to cut down on the presence of pests and vermin, such as mice.
Let your neighbors know that they can come talk with you if your pets are ever bothering them. For example, you might say, “If you ever hear my dog barking too much in the evenings, just let me know. ” If you are walking in your neighborhood, practice common courtesy by picking up your pet’s poop, too.
If you live in an apartment complex, the leasing company will usually provide you with a list of community rules, which usually includes a statement about noise. Go ahead and lower your noise level if you even think that you are being loud. Use what you know about your neighbors to determine what is appropriate, too. For example, if you know that the person next door works nights, then take that into account and adjust your noise levels accordingly.
For a more informal approach, say hi to your neighbors when they (or you) are outside walking their dog or working on their lawn. When you first meet your neighbor you might say, “Hi! I’m Fred Thompson. I live 2 doors down from you and just wanted to come over and welcome you to the neighborhood. ” You can also give you neighbor any friendly local tips, such as what time the garbage or mail carrier stops by. A welcoming gift can be anything from a friendly card to a basket filled with local foods or produce.
For example, if your neighbor is going out of town, they might ask you to watch over their home. Then, when you take a trip, you can ask them to return the favor.
For example, a community association could work together to put on a local street festival or even small dinners.
For example, to give yourself a few days to think everything over, you might say, “I understand where you are coming from, but I need to consider how to fix it on my end. Can we talk about this over the weekend again?”
This doesn’t necessarily apply if you feel as if the safety of you, your family, or the neighborhood is at stake. In those situations, you might want to reach out to local officials for assistance. Avoid gossiping about any issues with your neighbor to other neighbors or people in the community. This only creates additional problems.
The same goes for any other large, loud gatherings, such as ongoing construction.
