Let’s face it, living with a noisy neighbor must be the worst! Whether you live in an apartment building or condo, having someone constantly interrupt your life makes for a stressed-out life. Know your rights as a renter. Let’s explore some ways how to deal with noisy neighbors.
Ask nicely. Ask your neighbors in your sweetest voice if they could take it down a notch or step lightly, please. Your neighbor may not even realize how loud they are being. Sugar always gets you farther than spice.
Keep a log. If your initial ask goes unanswered and the noise persists, start documenting. Keep track of times and dates. Consider downloading a decibel meter on your phone if the noise is that loud.
Bring gifts. We know this could be a bit annoying to gift someone who is being a nuisance to you, but sometimes there is nothing like a nice plate of brownies or cookies. It’s hard to be angry at someone offering a delicious treat. Leave a lovely candle if you do not want to give treats since you might not know their diet restrictions. Include a note that would suggest a solution, maybe wireless headphones, or if the problem is recurring, suggest a time after which they could be quieter. Most likely, your lease includes “quiet hours,” so remind them of that.
Reduce the noise yourself. If you move your bed just slightly away from the wall, it can help block the noise. The same goes for the couch in the living room. Plus, it will help prevent minor scrapes on the wall caused by furniture. Buy a noise-canceling machine or download an app on your phone to use. Fall asleep to a Zen garden, a day at the beach, or a rainy thunderstorm. Sleep in peace, knowing the machine will drown out the noise and surround yourself in a more peaceful setting. You could purchase soundproofing foam wedge tiles if the noise is too loud for a noise-reducing machine. There are a variety of panel designs so you can match your interior decorations.
Speak to your neighbors. You may find that you are one of many who can hear your noisy neighbors, especially if it is loud music and gaming, barking dogs, or excessively loud talking. If that is the case, asking other neighbors to join you in complaining to the property manager may support your claim. Try talking to the neighbors on either side of the noisy neighbor and anyone who lives above them.
Know your rights as a renter. If you have exhausted all avenues for this noisy neighbor, go to the property manager or owner. In many cases, your neighbor will be issued a warning, and if the problem continues, they will act. However, if the noise is excessive, noise complaints will be reported to the security patrol team and/or the Police Department for confirmation of excessive noise. You have the right to live in peace!
