How to Get Respect From Your Neighbors

Earning the respect of your neighbors brings many benefits.

A respectful relationship with your neighbors can give you peace of mind when you need to be away, and makes it easy to find help with minor household problems. A trustworthy neighbor also provides a safe place to run in case of a fire or a home intrusion. Forging a respectful relationship with your neighbors requires consideration and a willingness to be a good neighbor first.

Instructions

1. Take time to get to know the neighbors. Make small talk when you run into them outside and make sure they know they are welcome to drop by your home anytime. Use these conversations to find out what kind of people they are and ways you can be a good neighbor. For example, if your neighbor is elderly, you can mow her front lawn when you mow your own.

2. Maintain your property nicely. Neighbors will have difficulty respecting a neighbor who creates an eyesore near their own property. Keep your lawn mowed, trees trimmed and trash picked up from your yard.

3. Show the neighbors respect, regardless of their behavior towards you. Honor their boundaries and respect any unusual tendencies they may have. If you respect their eccentricities, they will be more likely to respect yours.

4. Maintain your composure when your neigbors make a mistake. If the neighbor's visitors block your driveway, or a party gets a little out of hand, be forgiving and understanding. This will earn you the same consideration when you make a mistake.

5. Own up to your own mistakes, and offer to make it right. If you son throws a baseball through their window, admit your responsibility and offer to pay for the new window. Being honest with your neighbors and handling your responsibilities will earn their repect.

6. Drive safely through the neighborhood. Your neighbors will appreciate the fact that you are looking out for their pets and children as you drive down the street.

7. Watch your own pets closely and do not allow them to roam the neighborhood. This can lead to people or animals getting hurt or your animals relieving themselves on someone else's property. If you pet does get out, corral it as quickly as possible and clean up any messes you can find.

References

• Access Maine: How to Have Good Relationships with your Neighbors
• University of Central Florida: A Knight's Guide to Being Good Neighbors