Even if previous tenant did return all keys they had deliberately given out, there could still be copies floating around out there. It is incredibly easy to make a copy of a key. If previous tenant left their entire set of keys at an auto mechanic's garage rather than just car keys, there is a chance that someone copied house key.

When moving into a new apartment, you should ask if lock has been re-keyed. You might feel better if you went and bought a new lock regardless of circumstances just to be sure you have no problems with it. If lock on front door isn't a double and doesn't have a dead bolt lock, it should definitely be replaced. It is worthwhile to install a good lock with at least a one-inch bolt and be put in using nonstrippable one-way screws.

If your landlord doesn't offer to replace the, you can purchase a good dead bolt for under $20.00. Home Depot offers simple step by step instructions on dead bolt installation. Or, if you don't feel confident installing lock yourself, you might call your local locksmith for a price quote on installation.

3. No luck? This time you'll need to give your neighbor a letter informing them that you are willing to take this problem to landlord. A letter might look like this:

Dear Suzy Neighbor,

On January 5, 2000, I talked to you about excessive noise coming from your apartment. I informed you that Twister Parties lasting until 5am violate local noise laws, lease, and disrupt my sleep. I asked if you would please lower your volume or else move parties to a more reasonable hour. This request was ignored, and on January 11, 2000, I provided you with a copy of local noise laws and our lease - both of which provide me with a right to "quiet enjoyment." Once again, my request has been ignored, and if by January 20th, nothing has changed, I will need to approach landlord with this problem. I hope we reach an agreement before I am forced to contact landlord.

Thank You For Your Time, Joe Tenant

4. Still no luck? It's time to tattle. No one wants to be Narc... but this may be only way to live peacefully. Make a copy of letter, and discuss problem with your landlord. For additional support (and so you don't feel like such a tattle tail) you might want to ask your other neighbors if noise is bothering them, too. You might be able to get a petition signed by other neighbors, and arguing with a group will typically lead to faster results. Regardless of whether or not you can get support from your neighbors, if noise is bothering you, don't just learn to live with it! Living with excessive noise could actually be a threat to your health.

Once problem is in landlord's hands, you can de-stress a little bit. It's amazing how quiet those parties will get once host has to worry about eviction! And if noise-maker doesn't listen to landlord, maybe your new neighbors will respect "quiet enjoyment" law a little better than last ones!