Neighbor's False Accusations: What to Do

Even if they never become friends, many people create and maintain a sustainable working relationship with their neighbors. Some neighbors, however, are less interested in sharing a space with their fellow tenants and more interested in their neighbor's offenses, real or otherwise.

What options do you have if your apartment neighbors accuse you of things you never did?

Be Proactive

If you have been wrongly accused by a neighbor of breaking the set rules of your apartment complex, it is in your best interest to be as proactive as possible to refute your neighbor's claims. There are many ways you can do this. For example, if you were accused of smoking in your apartment when you did not, you could:

• Request the property manager inspect your apartment for evidence of smoking
• Ask other neighbors to act as references to counter the claims
• Request any proof your neighbors may have to support their accusations
• Have references sign a statement verifying that you follow the apartment's rules

Collect Records

It is almost always in your best interest to keep up-to-date records of any complaints against you, inspections of your living space, etc. If a property manager attempts to take legal action against you because of a neighbor's statements, your records can be a valuable resource for refuting inaccurate claims.

Additionally, the neighbor's statements may even be a form of defamation, depending on the circumstances. If this is the case, you may be able to take legal action against your neighbor in civil court.

Know Your Rights as a Tenant

Even if you are guilty of the offenses of which you have been accused, a landlord must follow certain steps in order to evict you. If a landlord fails to follow the necessary legal steps, you may have grounds for legal action. Regardless, as a tenant, you have rights..

Get Legal Help

Apartment neighbors complain about each other. But when it goes too far, you may have legal options. If your neighbor has falsely accused you of something, and your landlord is treating you unfairly as a result, contact an attorney experienced in landlord/tenant law.