I have been having problems with a neighbor for months

[Fan_Blue]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)?

I live in Virginia. I lease an apartment and have had problems with a neighbor for months. A neighbor of mine constantly harasses me and my wife, stomps on the floor all night, physicaly threatens us and constantly uses profanity, stomps on the stairs outside my wall hard enough to shake pictures off the wall and plays music loud enough to rattle my windows. I have complained to the property manager, who directs me to call the police if there is a problem. When I call the police, the neighbor quiets down as soon as a police car drives in the parking lot. If the police officer does not hear what I am complaining about, they can not do anything. Now the police think I am a nuisance because every time a police officer comes there is nothing happening.
Is the owner of the appartments or property manager responsible to evict a tenant if that tenant threatens other residents? When do actions directed at me and my family legally become harassment? Does anyone have any suggestions? I am locked in a lease right now and cannot move. Is there a law that allows me to legaly break my lease when the conditions exist that I have mentioned?
Any advice is welcome. Thank you!

 

[wrongsometimes]

Next time you call police tell them to walk up to the property & not drive their car.

I think you could video record your place and see if the offending sound is noted on it. Nothing wrong with that.

Cops think you are an issue? So what...they appear to still be coming over.

And physically threatening you? That could be assault.

Can you break your lease? Sure. Would you be liable for anything? Maybe not.. the LL's responsibility to to provide you with a livable environment.

I would write a letter to the LL (served via certified mail) telling him that you intend on moving out before the lease period is completed and that he should start looking for a new tenant. If he doesn't then he may be seen as not mitigating ... give him 30 days notice. If you wish to go this route.

 

[csi7]

You could use a broom to knock on the ceiling every time the neighbor stomps on the ceiling (their floor).
Record with audio and visual camera threats made dated and timed.
Using a timeline, keep a factual record of how long it takes the police to respond, the neighbor's efforts to tone down their noise intimidation so it is not heard by the police, and put all this in writing, return receipt requested to the property management office.
This will often stop the harassment as it is on file in the property management office, just make certain you notify them IN WRITING each date and time it happens after the initial letter is sent and acknowledged.

 

[Hot Topic]

Don't count on breaking your lease without paying a penalty unless the lease specifically says you can if another tenant is noisy.

 

[lizjimbo]

Quiet enjoyment clause

Check to see if your lease includes a clause that gives you quiet and peaceful enjoyment of the property.