Navigating relationships with neighbours isn’t always easy, but approaching each situation with empathy and understanding can go a long way. Read on for suggestions on how to handle interactions in some common situations.

The Complainer — They complain about almost everything and have a short fuse when it comes to certain sounds, such as a dog that barks or children who are loud. If they complain, listen and try to remain calm and neutral. If the complaint is reasonable, try to find a middle ground.

The Thorn in Your Side Neighbour — They continually get under your skin, maybe by blasting music, smoking on their balcony below you, or stomping around on the floor above you at all hours. Try and approach them with a friendly tone, express your concern, and work toward a solution.

The Boundary-less Neighbour — They can be overly friendly, perhaps dropping by unannounced too often. If you need space, start with subtle hints like, “I really value my alone time, it helps me to relax, and clear my head.” If that doesn’t work, be politely direct about your boundaries.

The Gossiper — They like to know and share everything about everyone. If you aren’t comfortable having the whole condo building know your business, it’s best to be selective with what you share with them.

The bottom line is that no matter what type of neighbour you are dealing with, a little tactful communication can make a big difference.