Article from Volume 11, Issue Number 2, 2024

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Here's how to manage noise complaints

By Audrey Harder | Other articles by Audrey Harder | Feature

Understanding and an ability to compromise are key

Living in close quarters with neighbours inevitably means dealing with noise, which can disrupt the peacefulness of your home. Here’s a guide to help condo owners manage noise complaints effectively.

1. Know the rules: Familiarize yourself with your building’s noise policies. These are often outlined in a document provided by your condo board or property manager. Understand what is considered excessive noise and when quiet hours are in effect.
2. Be mindful of others: Respect your neighbours by keeping noise levels down, especially during quiet hours. Avoid activities that could disturb them, such as loud music, late-night parties or noisy hobbies.
3. Communicate when making a noise complaint: If you’re finding that a neighbour is noisy, address it with your neighbour directly, being respectful. Try to find a reasonable compromise so that everyone can enjoy their living spaces while respecting quiet hours and schedules. It’s possible your neighbour didn’t know that others were being disturbed and they will respond kindly and quickly by adjusting their volume.
4. Take action: Identify the source of the noise and take steps to minimize it. This could include using rugs to reduce footfall noise, adjusting the time of day when you do louder activities, and using headphones for listening to music or watching TV.
5. Communicate when you receive a noise complaint: If you receive a noise complaint, address it promptly and politely. Apologize for the disturbance and assure your neighbour that you will take steps to reduce the noise. Sometimes, people are more understanding when they know you’re aware of the issue and are willing to make changes.
6. Document: Keep a record of any noise complaints you make or receive. Note the date, time, nature of the noise, and any action taken. This can be helpful if the issue escalates and you need to involve your board, management company or a mediator.
7. Talk to your board or property manager: If the noise issue persists despite your efforts, consider talking to your board or property manager. They may be able to intervene and enforce noise policies effectively.

Managing noise complaints requires understanding, communication and a willingness to compromise. By being mindful of your neighbours and taking proactive steps to reduce noise, you can help create a more peaceful living environment for yourself and those around you.

Audrey Harder is the treasurer of CCI Manitoba and is the general manager of the property management division at Schinkel Properties, which is a business partner member and a solver sponsor of CCI Manitoba.