Neighbor vs. Neighbor Nightmare

B.H. from New Haven County, Connecticut writes:

Dear Mister Condo,

I have a real problem with a noisy neighbor at my condo. He is a young man who likes to play loud music and video games until all hours of the morning. I have complained to my property manager and I’ve spoken to him about keeping it quiet after 10:00 p.m. So far, I have had no success. Our condo by-laws state that all residents are entitled to “peaceable enjoyment” of their units but the Property Manager said all that can be done is to warn the neighbor and ask the Board to levy fines if the behavior continues. I don’t want to cause trouble for my neighbor but I really need quiet so I can sleep at night. Can you help?

Mister Condo replies:

Noisy neighbors are a real nuisance in condos, B.H.. I am sorry you are not able to enjoy your condo peaceably as your by-laws state you should. It sounds like you will need to continue to apply pressure through the Property Manager and the Board to get your neighbor to comply with the rules. Also, your town may have local noise ordinances that can be enforced by the police if applicable. If your neighbor is approachable, continue to talk to him. Ask him if he would consider wearing headphones for music or gaming. If he is unreasonable or unruly, avoid him and work with the Board. It may take some time but you should prevail. Good luck!