HOA Management Blog
Noise is a concern for every resident and because you live in a homeowners association community, it’s important to understand that some degree of noise is to be expected. At the same time, residents need to consider the consequences of their noisy behavior. To keep everyone happy and maintain civility among neighbors, the HOA board asks that you take a few steps to reduce or eliminate annoying noise.
Be kind and respectful
A little common courtesy makes a big difference. Keep your music and television at reasonable levels, do your vacuuming before bedtime, and before remodeling check with the manager about acceptable hours and days of the week that work can be done. If you put in hardwood or tile flooring, use a sound-reducing underlayment. Move your noisy appliance away from walls and put sound-absorbing material underneath before your neighbors complain.
Keep a log
If you’re disturbed by a noise problem, note the times and the nature of the noise. For example, your neighbor leaves early for work and revs his motorcycle engine at 5 a.m.; or there is a dog constantly barking during the day when the homeowners are away. Ask the manager to listen and verify the noise as well. There may be a pattern in the noise that can be adjusted.
Visit your neighbor
If your neighbor is the source of the noise, try a friendly chat. Sometimes people just don’t realize how noise is affecting others. People are usually considerate once they realize they’re disturbing others. And, if your neighbor knocks on your door, listen politely and be willing to make changes to reduce your own noise.
Contact the manager
If a polite request doesn’t change your neighbor’s noisiness, it may be time to ask the manager for help. Have your noise log ready, including attempts to solve the problem yourself. The manager can then remind the noisy resident where in the HOA rules lists the expectations about noise, and bring it to the attention of the HOA board if needed.
The homeowners association overall should hear loud and clear that a quiet, peaceful community is a happy community.
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Topics: Living in an HOA, HOA Board, HOA Rules and Regulations
