APARTMENT NEIGHBOR'S 'SERVICES' MAKE NEW TENANT FEEL UNEASY
By Abigail Van Buren Abigail Van Buren
Sun Dec 28, 2:16 am ET

DEAR ABBY: A few months ago, I moved into a new apartment. The complex, while not luxurious, is quite nice.

A few weeks after I moved in, one of my neighbors informed me that the woman who lives across from me is running a business from her home. Her "services" are illegal, if you know what I mean. I have noticed that whenever I leave my apartment, or return to it, there is yet another strange man entering or leaving.

I am conflicted. This is my home, too, and I shouldn't have to worry about these characters. What if they mistake my door for hers? Also, I have overheard this woman on her cell phone making arrangements for these individuals to come over. She even gives out the gate code to them.

Although I would like to report these illegal activities, I'm afraid of retaliation. What is the best way to handle this? Or should I just look the other way and mind my own business, the way the other neighbors have? -- IT'S MY HOME, TOO, IN WASHINGTON STATE

DEAR M.H.T.: You and the person who clued you into what has been going on should discuss this matter with the building manager or management company. They should be told exactly what you have told me, including the fact that this woman is giving out the code to the security gate willy-nilly. This is a serious breach of security for every tenant who lives there, and you have a valid reason for concern.

P.S. If you do not feel safe, you should move.