“I really want to ask them to move it”

It’s one of the ultimate trials of adulthood: dealing with annoying neighbors. While some annoying neighbors may play loud music at night or mow their lawn at sunrise, others are more than just frustrating. Their habits can be dangerous for the environment.

A Milwaukee-based homeowner recently shared his neighbor-related issues on Reddit, documenting his experience with a neighbor flooding his yard with runoff from a sump pump. The homeowner said the neighbor’s sump pump pipe was about a foot from the property line, making much of his yard wet and muddy year-round.

“I really want to ask them to move it further into their own yard, but I’d like to know if there’s any reason for me to go to town if they refuse to move it,” the Redditor wrote. “From what I know of these neighbors, I unfortunately have the feeling that they will refuse.”

Should HOAs be able to force homeowners to change yards?

Absolutely not

Yes, that’s part of the deal

Only in extreme circumstances

We should ban HOAs

Click on your choice to see the results and express your opinion

Difficult neighbors can often be an obstacle for homeowners looking for climate-friendly home solutions, including those who want to keep a yard healthy, happy (and mud-free). After all, having a well-maintained garden filled with native plants is one way to support local pollinators, insects and wildlife.

Stagnant water is also problematic for the environment and public health because it potentially harbors harmful bacteria, viruses and parasites, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization.

Many commenters – including one who said he was a Milwaukee code inspector – noted that the neighbor’s actions are illegal under Wisconsin state law, adding that the neighbor’s drainage system must lead to a storm sewer or move away from neighboring properties.

One commenter suggested the frustrated homeowner read county codes to better evaluate their particular situation. But the speaker added that ideally it would be to talk with neighbors first before turning to the city to mediate.

“I would start with a casual conversation and only start getting into city codes if it becomes really contentious,” the commenter advised. “After all, you have to be able to live next to them, and that could kill a decent relationship.”

Join our free newsletter to get simple tips for save more And waste lessand don’t miss this cool list of simple ways to help yourself while helping the planet.