How to Keep the Noise Down in Your HOA
With the kids at home from school and college, and with working from home as a new normal due to COVID-19, residents must be mindful of noise.
Noise is an inevitable reality in homeowner's associations and condominium communities. Condominium dwellers live in such proximity. We must consider the effect noise will have on our neighbors when deciding on floor coverings, where to mount the flat-screen television, or when to knock out a wall.
You and your neighbors have the right to enjoy your homes in peace and stock them with the things you want. But remember, how you furnish your unit may be a nuisance to your neighbors in theirs'.
What's Makes for a Noisy Condo or Townhome?
Hard flooring—wood, ceramic, stone—is fashionable and collects far fewer allergens than carpet, making them a popular option for your home. But, if you live on the second floor or above, it can be a problem for the folks downstairs, even if you make an effort to tread lightly.. If you're considering installing hard flooring in your unit, install a sound barrier—like cork—to reduce noise. And, if you have people above you, let's hope they do the same.
Flat-screen televisions are becoming more affordable every year, and many of our residents have them. Please mount your screen on an interior wall—not a wall you share with a neighbor. Reverberations from wall-mounted televisions can be an annoyance for those on the other side.
How much noise does it take to be a nuisance? One definition says "nuisance" is a level of disturbance beyond what a reasonable person would find tolerable. But, sometimes the question isn't how much noise we make, but when we make it. Whatever you're planning, give some thought to the day, as well as the time of day for your activity.
If you have noisy neighbors, talk to them while practicing social distancing. They probably have no idea they're disturbing you.
The Golden Rule applies here: Treat your neighbors the way you want them to treat you.
What Can Board Members Do About the Noise Complaints?
It's vital to educate members about noise-ordinance guidelines. Some noisy neighbors might not even be aware that they're breaking the rules of "quiet time" at night or in the morning if they're not aware of when those hours are.
Although you might think it should be common sense, make sure that members in your community are informed about noise guidelines. Also, they must be informed about what to do when they encounter a noisy neighbor.
Members of your community should know that even if they are frustrated with the noise, the first step shouldn't be to get law enforcement involved. Instead, share with them a few tips like:
First, approach the neighbor politely and ask them to stop the noise when it's inconvenient for you and against the town or HOA policies. Usually, friendly conversations can help resolve the issue before it escalates any further.
If the neighbor is uncooperative with the verbal request, follow up with a written appeal. This request must be in letter form. It states the grievances and on which date and time the incident occurred. An additional request to change the behavior must be made as well as a copy of the HOA or city ordinances that prohibit the stated grievances.
Consult your property manager if recording conversations is permissible. Keep al log of complaints because of noise.
If the neighbor still ignores the verbal and written requests, residents should contact the HOA and local law enforcement. These individuals can attempt to contact the noisy neighbor about the issue and move forward with fines for the violations if needed.
Contact Us
Condominium Associates is here to help guide you as more and more homeowners are stuck inside the house due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Reach out if you need assistance on how to manage your HOA or COA best.
