RE Q&A: What to Do with Loud Condo Neighbors
A condo owner decided to take up the drums, but even though he only practices during the day, the noise doesn’t stop with his four walls. What can other owners do?
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Question: The neighbor above my condo apartment recently took up the drums. He likes to practice in the middle of the day, which is a problem since I work from home.
To make matters worse, he seems to practice at random times, so I cannot even plan around it. It is interfering with my work and is getting under my skin. What can I do? – Anonymous
Answer: Apartment living has both advantages and sacrifices. There is no yard to mow or house to maintain, but you must live close to people with differing interests and schedules. Making this choice of lifestyle requires both patience and consideration of others. Apartment dwellers should have more patience for random noises and heavy footsteps and consideration for their neighbors. Playing the drums in an apartment, even in the middle of the day, takes things too far.
Give your neighbor the benefit of the doubt. Since he is only practicing in the middle of the day, he may think no one is home to hear him play. Your first step is to chat with him, letting him know you work from home and that his practice is making things hard for you. Hopefully, this will resolve the problem.
However, if it does not, your next step is to speak with your property manager. Playing the drums or loud music is most likely not allowed by your community’s rules. The property manager should have the tools and skills to get him to stop. You can also speak to your board of directors about this.
If your community is unable or refuses to help, you can try to find relief from the courts. Everyone has the right to peacefully enjoy their home; if someone’s actions interfere, it can be considered a “nuisance.” A judge can issue an “injunction” if she agrees that your neighbor’s actions are out of line. If the nuisance continues, your neighbor could face fines and other sanctions for disobeying the injunction.
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