Best Tactic for a Eyesore-ish Neighbor

[Matt Alvino]

Hello all,

I have a 4-family property on a very small block. Only 5 houses on the entire block. The neighbor across the street is a single-family home, but the house is set back all the way on the alley. So they have a big exposed front yard that borders the alley access and has a tall chain-link fence around the entire yard. There is a lot going on in that yard. Kid stuff (i.e. trampoline, playsets) as well as random storage, that would typically be found in a backyard. It's not a full on junkyard, but its close and definitely not a pleasant view.

A potential tenant recently backed out of the process after seeing the neighbor's yard. My question(s), what is the best means to handle this?

- A conversation with the homeowner (possible renter)? This feels like the right thing to do, but curious if this opens up issues if it doesn't go well.

- A letter to the homeowner?

- Go straight to the city to lodge a complaint? 

-Something else?

Thank you.

[Nathan Gesner]

It doesn't sound like they're violating any ordinances. If they failed to mow the lawn or parked cars on blocks in the front yard, then you could complain to the city and get it cleaned up. As it is, I think it's just a family trying to enjoy their property. You need to accept it or invest somewhere else.