H.R. from Hartford County writes:
Dear Mister Condo,
My question is about neighbors. What recourse, if any, for neighbors who harass with constant banging, excessive noise, who, as an after thought of getting me in trouble by claiming I am making the noise? They were harassing someone this past December that lead to a “911” call.
Mister Condo replies:
H.R., the “911” call was the right thing to do back then and calling the police is the right thing to do any time the law is being broken, including noise regulations. Of course, “911” should only be used in emergencies but calling the police to report any criminal activity within your condo or HOA is always the right course of action when fellow unit owners break the law.
Most associations have noise restrictions. Consult your governing documents to see what, if any, are in place at your association. If there are none, ask your Board to adopt them as soon as possible and then begin the task of documenting the noise violations against the offenders. The Board will likely issue them a warning letter, offer a hearing for them to defend themselves, and then begin issuing fines for the rule breaking. This may cause them to quiet down or it may not but at least you are taking the proper steps to try to control the sound. I wish you peaceable enjoyment and a speedy resolution.
Great advice! One thing you usually should try to do first is ask them to quiet down. Often Boards and police will ask if you’ve tried talking to the neighbor first. If the neighbor is difficult, it adds strength to your case that they are a nuisance.