Legal Question in Real Estate Law in California

Harrassment by neighbors

We live in a condominium and have 2 toddler age children.

The neighbors downstairs are constantly complaining about

the noise my children make when they play or walk across the

floor. Ironically, we only live in this location 2 months

out of the year and so the neighbors are not used to hearing

any noise at all, no matter how small. So far they have

written us nasty notes, are constantly banging on our floor

with a broom handle, have written letters of complaint

against us to the condo board, and have now called the

police on us (twice). The police have told them our kids

have a right to play during the day, and yet they still are

constantly bothering us. Is there any legal recourse we can

take in this situation? I am a ne


Asked on 7/21/02, 6:53 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Martin Snitow

Re: Harrassment by neighbors

Before you try legal remedies, you should talk to your neighbors or suggest mediation to reach a solution. Some cities and other organizations such as Project Sentinel may have free or low cost mediation programs. Any agreement you can reach, such as installing carpeting or insulation to reduce noise, is going to be more satisfactory than a legal process.

If that does not work, you may have a claim under the federal Fair Housing Act and California's Unruh Act for discrimination based on familial status. If necessary, you can file a complaint with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing or see a lawyer about suing in court.

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Answered on 7/21/02, 9:12 pm


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