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Reasons to Call the Police on Your Neighbors – And When Not To

Police Officer Outside of a Homestead Rental HomeAs a Homestead renter, one of the hardest things to cope with is rude neighbors. You might need to report your neighbors to the police at some point. This choice should not be made hastily because there are many things to take into account. In this blog post, we’ll go over several reasons why you might want to report your neighbors to the police as well as some instances where you shouldn’t. If and when the need arises, this knowledge will enable you to contact law enforcement in an informed manner.

Reasons to Call the Police on Your Neighbors

It is important to try to resolve common disagreements with your neighbors directly. There are many things you can do to end the conflict amicably, such as talking it out with them or making a concession.

There are, however, special cases in which you must contact the police. This will include:

  • Your neighbors are making threats against you and your rental property.
  • Your neighbors frequently violate your property’s boundaries or engage in vandalism.
  • You feel frightened around your neighbors because of their risky, violent, or rude behavior.
  • Your neighbors participate in criminal behavior.
  • Late at night, your neighbors are severely disturbing you (e.g., loud music) and continue to do so despite your requests for them to stop.
  • You hear gunshots, observe smoke or flames rising from within a home, or have any reason to fear that your neighbors may be in danger.

The police or another competent authority must be contacted in these situations, and they must be given control. In addition to defusing the situation, they could be required to file a police report to protect you. By attempting to intervene despite lacking the necessary skills or understanding, you might also make the situation worse.

Reasons Not to Call the Police on Your Neighbors

Before contacting the police, it is necessary to assess the situation and ensure you are not exaggerating. If your neighbors just have various opinions or ways of life than you, it is advisable to attempt to resolve differences with them first.

Keeping in mind that the police can be a source of authority and power, it is crucial to exercise that power appropriately. Calling the police to deal with your neighbors’ minor disputes or uncontrollable circumstances is not a good idea (e.g., loud children). To see whether they can settle the conflict and if they have a good relationship with your neighbors, you might want to speak with your Homestead property manager first. You should not contact the police in the following circumstances as well:

  • Your neighbors arguing with one another or another person may cause the situation to unnecessarily escalate.
  • Slight annoyances are caused by your neighbors, such as when they park on the street in front of your house.
  • There are unsightly items in your neighbors’ yards, such as trash or thick weeds. This is something you should report to the HOA, not the police so long as you live in an HOA.
  • Your neighbors participate in actions that you personally disagree with but are neither violent, dangerous, or illegal.
  • Although they don’t breach any laws, your neighbors are occasionally noisy (e.g., when hosting a small gathering or game night).

Consider all the variables and how they might influence both you and your neighbors before determining whether or not to report your neighbors to the police. In addition, if you do decide to notify police authorities, be sure to inform your landlord of the incident as well. Renters must keep in mind that having good neighbor connections is key to having a satisfying rental experience.

If you have followed all of this advice and still cannot coexist peacefully with your present neighbors, it may be time to start again. We’d be pleased to assist you in finding your new property because Real Property Management Genesis has fantastic listings in desirable areas. Browse our listings online today!

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