How to Deal with Noisy Neighbors

There’s no easy cure for nosy neighbors. Keep your blinds closed against Gladys Kravitz and hope for the best. You have a twofold defense, however, against noisy neighbors. First, inspect your potential complex well before signing a lease. Second, be calm yet assertive should you discover a rowdy crowd once you move in.

How High Decibel is Your Space?
While considering rent, architectural details, and cool factor, check for warning signs of noisy living.
• Visit the apartment at different times of day. What’s irenic Monday afternoons may be hopping on Saturday nights, especially in the parking lot or around the pool.
• Get a second opinion. Ask residents about their experiences. Do a little profiling, too. How young are most of your neighbors? Are there many pets? Children? Cover bands?
• Look for quality construction. Are the walls thick or paper-thin? How plush is the carpet? Although you can add throw rugs and thermal drapes for extra insulation, start with the best foundation you can afford.
• Check out the floor plan. Would your TV or dryer back up to your bedroom? Does the balcony overlook a busy street?
• Where in the complex are you located? If your place is in proximity to any of the following, expect some ambient noise: stairwell, elevator, parking garage, gym or community space, laundry room, pool, or pretty much anywhere else where people want to hang and have fun.
• Where in the city is it? Expect some sleepless nights if you are in the zone of any of these: clubs, bars, restaurants, buses, trains, airports, freeways, police stations, fire departments, high schools, arenas or stadiums, or “cruising strips.”
Most of these factors have nothing to do with the character of your neighbors, just the culture of the neighborhood. Yet those who can live easily above a strip of nightclubs are probably more likely to stay up and get down themselves.

If you are kept sleepless by some inconsiderate partiers, dog owners, or wannabe drummers once you’ve settled in, try to keep your anger in check. Temper your actions to preserve future friendships.