The Bottom Line
Do not take the complaints or the site seriously. I'm reminded of the stereotypical neighborhood busybody. Only this time they have a computer.
Pros
- Helps you locate potential bad neighbors when you search for real estate
Cons
- There's no objective standards for what counts as a bad neighbor
- There's no way to remove a bad neighbor once they move or improve
- There's no way to contest a report made against you
- Reports point directly at individual houses, which may be a legal issue
- There's no way to report good neighbors
Description
- The Web site uses Google Maps mashup to show "bad neighbors."
- Registration is instant and only requires an email address.
- Search by zip code or zoom around using the Google Maps interface.
- This Web site is not owned or associated with Google.
Guide Review - RottenNeighbor.com Web Site for Finding Bad Neighbors
RottonNeighbor.com is a Web site that is designed to help you find out about your neighbors before you move. You can search zip codes to see the density of rotten neighbors on a Google Maps mashup, and you're encouraged to contribute rotten neighbors of your own.
This has a lot of potential problems. There doesn't seem to be a way to change your mind. If a neighbor moves or cleans up their yard, you can't easily update the information.
Furthermore, there's no objective standard on what a bad neighbor is, and there's no accountability or proof for the claims.
Complaints on the site range from, "Doesn't pick up trash," to "child molester." Users pin items directly on a Google Maps mashup, so these complaints are tied directly to someone's house.
Combine this with the easy instant registration, and this seems like a recipe for harassment, stalking, and retaliation.
