Harassment by neighbors can take many forms, including yelling obscenities; loud and disruptive noises (especially at night) from parties, fights, or other activities; threatening or abusive behavior; or damage to your home or yard by pets.

If your neighbor’s behavior is merely annoying and not abusive, threatening, or criminal conduct, you may be able to resolve the issue with a courteous discussion. But if your neighbor’s conduct is threatening, abusive, violates a noise ordinance, or is a criminal offense such as stalking, trespassing, or peeping, for example, you may be able to get assistance from the police (call 911 in an emergency) or from the civil courts in the form of a restraining order.

In West Virginia, harassment by neighbors can be addressed through various legal avenues depending on the severity and nature of the conduct. If the behavior is annoying but not abusive or threatening, it is often best to attempt to resolve the issue through direct communication. However, if the conduct includes yelling obscenities, loud noises that disrupt peace especially at night, threatening or abusive behavior, or damage to property, and it violates local noise ordinances or constitutes a criminal offense such as stalking, trespassing, or invasion of privacy, legal intervention may be necessary. Victims can contact local law enforcement, and in emergencies, dial 911. For ongoing issues that are not immediate emergencies, individuals may seek a restraining order or other civil remedies through the courts to prevent further harassment. It's important to document incidents and gather evidence when seeking legal recourse. An attorney can provide guidance on the appropriate steps to take based on the specific circumstances of the harassment.