Landlords face a variety of problems and complaints that are inherent to having several individuals and families living in close proximity to one another. Residents often complain about wear-and-tear or dysfunctional appliances, pests, security deposits, pet waste removal, trash on the premises, but mostly noise. It’s noisy! In fact, noise is frequently listed as the top complaint that landlords receive from their tenants. Fortunately, there are ways for landlords to address and avoid noise complaints.
Addressing Noise Complaints
Addressing complaints about noise can be complicated. These complaints often happen after hours and it can be difficult to correctly identify the source of the noise. It can also be difficult to determine whether the offended party is overly sensitive. Despite these issues, tips for handling complaints about noise are available.
Addressing complaints quickly is important. This makes residents feel heard and makes them feel that their input is valued. If you or property staff are able to intervene, let the resident know how their complaint will be handled. In cases where you are unable to clearly locate the source of the sound or if the sound does not qualify as excessive, provide options. White noise machines, fans, and even relocating furniture can decrease perceived noise and the effects of noise in an apartment home.
Avoiding Noise Complaints
Landlords can also take preventative steps to avoid complaints about noise. Leases can be crafted to include specific language that prohibits excessive or loud noise, especially after hours. For properties that allow pets, lease language that addresses barking dogs is important. Outline rules, restrictions, and consequences for first and repeated violations. This gives landlords the power to enforce rules and consequences against excessive noise on their property.
If there is a regular source of noise, such as a fire station or active train tracks near the property, warn prospective tenants in advance. Tenants are less likely to submit complaints about outside sources of noise if they are warned in advance.
Landlords can also take steps to soundproof their property. This can greatly decrease disturbance from outside noise as well as from neighbors. There are several types of soundproofing products available.
Soundproofing the Property
Noise Barrier materials can be installed in walls to decrease the transmission of sound between neighboring apartments or townhomes. Noise barriers need to be permanent in nature for the best results. There are barriers that can be installed inside the walls or absorption materials can be added to walls, depending on each unit’s aesthetic and soundproofing needs.
For multilevel buildings, Sonic-Shield Noise Barrier systems can be installed in the floors and ceilings, in order to decrease sound transmission from upstairs and downstairs neighbors.
If outside noise is a primary concern, there are sealants and inserts that can be applied to windows. This can significantly decrease the amount of outside noise that can be heard in the room. Acoustic windows can also be installed. Products can be used individually or combined.
The Final Word
Noise and noise related complaints will never go away. However, landlords can avoid the headache of dealing with these complaints through intentional lease language, warning tenants about regular outside noise, by addressing complaints promptly, and by taking preventative measures. Affordable soundproofing options do exist and can be used in conjunction with purposeful lease language to decrease complaints about noise. Contact Sonic-Shield to help provide just the right solution.
