Listen, I know it’s hot and I am really sorry I had to ask the landlord for you to take down your AC. Only problem is it keeps LEAKING into my living room window. Not just a drippy drop, but a river. This morning I woke up to a lake on my living room floor and now my tv will not turn on and all the electrical wires are soaked and ruined.
So I knock on your door and you tell me I shouldn’t be complaining to you and turn into a royal asshat. Listen, the super has told you twice already.
Your lucky I didn’t throw a rock into your window.
See you in small claims when I take you there to replace my tv.
This article appears in Jul 31 – Aug 6, 2008.
Ugg I hate neighbors like that! they’re always the people who,w hen you do complain to the super, blink wide eyed innocently and say ‘oh well I just wish they’d come to me first and we could have worked this out nicely’.Seriously. If you’ve done something wrong (like turn your ac on when you’ve been told it’s destroying your neighbors apartment) just own up to it- WHY do people feel the need to try to make it hte other person’s fault? (oh you’re a bitch for calling the super/whining etc)
i used to work insurance claims, here is the solution for you.two part problem, one the tenant, the second a wishy washy landlord.here you go, if co operative file a claim with the tenants insurance company, start with a carpet cleaning and any other damage. (mould can start within 24 hours so you’re entitled) be insistant. if they will not provide their provider (or even better from payback point of view they have not got one) file with yours covering your contents of apartment or if you own your homeowners policy. this wont go against you, but your company can find THEIR company pdq. There is nothing but nothing for behaviour modification like a letter from an insurance provider or a lawyer (which I find best for handling neighbours, there is nothing but nothing like the confidence that a good firm on retainer brings). You will be surprised how these things escalate once a claim starts. let the landlord know you intend to do this. also, if you like, file small claims court, get the carpet and any damage cleaned and repaired, don’t be economical. file, and go through with it.bet you get a new neighbour. good luck.