Alice, My Neighbors Asked That I Not Do Laundry When They’re Home
Dear Alice,
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I live in a duplex where the shared washer/dryer is in the garage. The garage belongs to the other tenant and has two windows that open from the bedroom into the garage. I cannot see into the bedroom, but they can hear me. I was surprised when the new renter asked me not to use the laundry when they are home. They rented it knowing the set up. I am considerate by not going in early or late. Should I comply?
Signed,
Want to Wash
Dear Want to Wash,
First, what a strange garage. I’m not familiar with garages that have interior windows, but that’s beside the point. Anyhow, this seems easy and straightforward: you do not give in to their request. Asking you not to use the washer/dryer any time they happen to be home is just plain unreasonable.
Tell them you will limit the hours you use the laundry so as not to disturb their sleep and then choose a timeframe that suits your needs while being sensitive to theirs. Maybe not before 9 am or after 10 pm? That seems very generous to me.
Love,
Alice