Tenants in a building are usually surrounded by neighbors on all sides, a challenging reality because everyone has their own habits and way of life.
In most cases, tenants have no control over who their neighbors will be, and no one stops to ask them, "Do you like your neighbors?"
No matter how good the residents or tenants are, everyone is different, so problems can arise and sometimes escalate from a minor argument into a deep dispute.
That is why we put together 5 tips to help you resolve disputes between residents:
- House rules: The best way to keep the peace between residents or tenants is to put everything in writing in the building's house rules. It is a good idea to include in the rules what happens when conflicts arise between residents, meaning who will be responsible for trying to resolve the dispute first, before any outside intervention (the residents' committee, the building's management and maintenance company or the landlord). It is also advisable to set clear rules about the shared environment: music noise, pets, home renovation work and more.
- A listening ear: To start with, we recommend trying to stay out of the dispute and serve only as a listening ear. Sometimes all people want is a shoulder to lean on and to know that their problems are taken seriously. Try to encourage both sides to resolve the dispute between themselves over a cup of coffee, and don't forget to follow up and ask how they are doing.
- Taking action: If the residents were unable to resolve the dispute themselves, the next step is to contact the resident the complaint was made about. In this situation, it is important to be gentle and remember that there are two sides to every coin. If necessary, it is advisable to schedule a meeting with all the residents involved in the conflict, and make sure there is a good atmosphere, openness and listening.
It is very important to document the complaints, conversations and meetings. Once the dispute is resolved, remember to check in and ask how both sides are doing.
It is worth remembering that a management company can be a great solution as a third party. One of its key roles is dealing with residents. A maintenance company handles collection from residents, which prevents conflicts in the building.
- Be my friend: One of the easier ways to resolve disputes between neighbors before they even happen is to create a friendly environment and an understanding that we are all in the same boat. It is a good idea to encourage tenants to hold a get-to-know-you meeting for each floor or for the whole building, and to invite them to get to know one another in the building's residents' lounge.
- Shaking hands: Sometimes, when a dispute escalates and you find yourself in a situation you can't resolve, it is advisable to turn to the Superintendent of Condominiums, whose role is to resolve legal disputes between residents. The superintendent has legal authority and all the knowledge needed regarding the relevant laws and regulations.
