Many times, neighbors can be great to have when living in an apartment community. They can often times sign for a package, water your plants, and check your mail while you're gone - and who knows, you may even become friends.
If you're one of the few who has to deal with a pesky neighbor, you know it's not a pleasant thing - and he or she can really get under your skin. But having a pesky neighbor doesn't mean you have to move out of your apartment. Luckily, there are many ways to effectively deal with the situation:
Talk with your neighbor - This should be done before anything else. Find a time to talk with your neighbor, but don't think of it as a fight. Instead, look at it as a friendly chat where you can get your feelings out into the open.
Here's an example: Let's say you've lived in your apartment for a few months and suddenly you hear loud music through the wall - but not just once; it happens at least once every couple of days. Instead of automatically assuming your neighbor is out to bother you, simply let them know the loud music bothers you and ask if they could turn it down a few notches. Who knows, they may not even know the walls are that thin!
Hopefully, your neighbor will be receptive to your complaints. If not, you may have to go to the next step...
Talk with your landlord - As a tenant of an apartment, you have the right to live there without being constantly disturbed. However, extra noise in an apartment also comes with the territory. There's no way living in a large apartment community will be as peaceful as if you're living in your own home in the suburbs.
However, if your neighbor is making an excessive amount of noise or causing another disturbance and you've tried reasoning with them, it may be time to approach your landlord. If talking with them about too much noise, find out if your apartment complex has a noise ordinance or designated quiet time. If not, this may be something to suggest to your landlord. Otherwise, your landlord may have to talk to your neighbor directly.
Take matters into your own hands - If you've talked with your neighbor and the landlord, but just can't get anything resolved, there are a few things you can do to fight noise:
Buy a fan or dehumidifier - These devices can not only keep you comfortable, but can also drown out the noise you're hearing. Target, Home Depot, and similar stores carry a variety of attractive and high-quality fans and dehumidifiers.
Create white noise - White noise machines have become more and more popular over the last years as a tool to help people sleep. Try purchasing a machine or CD that plays relaxing sounds like rushing water or the sea.
Wear earplugs - These are surprisingly comfortable and a great way to block out noise. You can purchase these for just a couple dollars at your local convenience store or at a place like Wal-Mart and Target.
This article was provided by an Ames Iowa apartment expert, providing information about Ames apartments and luxury homes.