Q: I have been dealing with my downstairs neighbor who violently bangs on my floor when my one year old is simply walking.
I used to just ignore it but it has come to the point that she bangs so loud it causes my one year old to run to me in terror crying. I have been documenting it as all we are doing is simply living. I have put padding on the floors throughout the apartment and make sure my son is wearing his thick slippers at all times. It is now more frequently during the day while I clean and do my school that she is banging. It's caused great amounts of stress for me in my home.
A:
Under California law, dealing with a neighbor who disrupts your peace and quiet can be challenging, but there are steps you can take to address the issue. First, consider communicating directly with your neighbor about the noise and its impact on your family, if you haven't already done so. It's possible they may not be aware of the extent of the disturbance they're causing. Documenting these interactions is also beneficial.
If direct communication does not resolve the problem, the next step would be to contact your landlord or property management company if you're renting. Explain the situation, provide them with the documentation of the disturbances, and ask for their assistance in resolving the matter. Landlords have a duty to ensure tenants can peacefully enjoy their homes, and they may intervene to address excessive noise.
Should the situation persist and affect your quality of life, consulting with a legal professional may be necessary to explore further options. This could include mediation, filing a complaint for nuisance in small claims court, or seeking a restraining order if the behavior escalates to harassment. Remember, everyone has the right to quiet enjoyment of their home, and there are legal mechanisms in place to protect this right.
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