Problem with the neighbors

[Mary-Et-François0]

Hello...We've been renting our apartment for 3 years now and it has happened that the down stairs neighbors have complained to us of noise/ beds and chairs being moved when we have vacationers. We have always dealt with the issue with our guests promptly to insure that everyone can sleep well. We've noticed an escalation of complaints by our downstairs neighbors and it has turned out that the "offenders" were vacationers in another apartment on the same floor as ours. But now we've reached a new level of complaining that the neighbors have verbally harassed our guests, even insinuating that they don't take care of their car properly (?!?). My husband and I are stunned by this behavior because when we stay in our place the neighbors  are extremely courteous and polite. We are afraid that it's their way of "scaring off" our guests. For now we haven't received any bad reviews from our vacationers, but if this keeps up it won't be long that that dreaded 1 star review will pop up and it could be devastating for any future rentals. The summer is completely rented out and we'd like to keep doing what we're doing. Does anyone have any tips or ideas to intelligently find a solution? Many Thanks

[Jonathan6]

Step 1 is to have a frank and friendly discussion with your neighbors, invite them out to coffee or a cocktail and discuss it.  You need to get to the bottom of what their concern is so you can take appropriate action. 

You don't provide enough detail if this is a co-op, rental or condo, so there may or not be some protections in your by-laws or lease against against any harassing behavior by a neighbor to you or your guests (I am assuming you have the right to ABB your unit).

It also could turn out to be nothing and you may find out that they have unfounded issues, like security and there may be ways that you can alleviate their concerns.  Maybe them just having your phone number so they can call when something is actually going on, may make them feel more comfortable, especially if you show you will take quick steps because you don't want that to happen either. Perhaps, it is about the noise and putting down carpet or area rugs may quiet it down or taking out the loud sub-woofer.  Showing that you respect their feelings and care will go a long way.

It may not sound palatable or maybe even like extortion, but maybe you pay them for the perceived inconvenience of allowing ABB guests (maybe 1%, makes them deal with the noise) .

Don't ignore it and don't escalate it, de-escalate it, everyone may end up with what they want.