One of the hardest things about living in a downstairs apartment is dealing with the noise from upstairs neighbors. It doesn't matter if the noise comes from normal activities, such as walking and talking, or from a weekend party, the first thing to do is get the neighbor to talk. Fortunately, in most cases, speaking nicely can solve this problem. If not, there are still some steps that can be taken.
Step
Method 1 of 3: Solving This Problem Yourself
Step 1. Remember that some noise can't be muted
Your neighbors upstairs have every right to enjoy life there, just as you do. The fact that you can hear the sound from above probably isn't his fault. Living in a high rise building requires you to be tolerant of hearing certain sounds during the day.
- Floors that are not insulated or installed incorrectly can amplify sound so that ordinary activities, such as walking, cooking, or talking, sound louder to you.
- Footsteps at dinnertime are natural, but late night parties on weekends are not.
Step 2. Read the rental contract to see if there are any rules regarding noise levels
Some apartments and condominiums have rules that require residents to limit noise. Before complaining to a neighbor or building manager, check to see if the rule does exist. If there is, you can use it to support your complaint.
Noise rules could include quiet hours, the percentage of floors covered with carpet or rugs, or a ban on loud animals
Step 3. Choose an appropriate time to discuss the matter with your neighbors
Don't approach her in the middle of a party or in the middle of the night when her temper is high. Also, don't talk to him when you're angry. However, talk to him nicely in the morning or wait until dinner time if you and the neighbor are often active at night.
Step 4. Speak politely to your neighbors to resolve the issue
Your neighbor may not be aware that he is making noise. So, stay calm and friendly. Introduce yourself if you don't know one, and then give a specific example of the noise you hear.
- Try saying something like “Hi, I'm your neighbor downstairs. I'm not sure you're aware, but sometimes the music you're playing in the middle of the night sounds all the way down. Last Tuesday the music was very loud, but last night there was no sound."
- Tell your activity plan. For example, you could say something like “I have to work very early in the morning. Can you turn down the music volume at 10:30pm?”
Step 5. Write a note if you're not comfortable talking one-on-one
The best way to deal with this problem is to talk directly, but if you're not sure this is working, send a note to your neighbor. Write 4-5 short sentences, specifying the type of voice that is bothering you, and avoid sarcasm, threats, or passive-aggressive language.
- Make a copy of the letter, then write down the date to see if the problem persists.
- You could write something like “Hey owner of apartment #212! I'm your neighbor downstairs. Can you not run on the treadmill before 6am? The sound was heard all the way to the room so I couldn't sleep. I hope you understand. Thank you!
Step 6. Tap the ceiling with the broom handle if the noise is very loud
If your neighbor is doing something very loud, he may not even notice that you can hear him too, or that the sound is simply not muffled. If the noise persists while you're about to sleep, tapping on the ceiling may silence it.
If the noise is heard during business hours, just wait for it to go away, especially if your neighbors don't usually make such noise
Method 2 of 3: Contacting the Authorities
Step 1. Make a note of every time you hear a noise
Write down the time, date, and type of sound heard. You should also take note of the actions you take, such as knocking on the ceiling or speaking directly to the neighbor. These notes will be very useful if you decide to contact property management or the police as they can show the sound pattern that appears.
The note could read “Sunday, August 7 – the noise of the noisy party lasted until midnight. Knocked on the door, but no answer,” continued with “Wednesday, August 10 – there was a sound like a couple fighting. I do not do anything."
Step 2. Ask if your neighbors have any problems
You may not be the only person bothered by the neighbor's noise, especially if the sounds are loud music, barking dogs, or arguments. If this happens, invite other neighbors to file a complaint with the building manager so that it can be resolved more quickly.
Try talking to neighbors whose rooms are next to and above the noisy neighbor's room location
Step 3. Talk to the building manager or apartment owner if the noise doesn't go away
In most cases, noisy neighbors will receive a warning letter containing anonymous complaints from other residents. However, the building manager may recommend a mutually beneficial solution for the occupants. He may offer mediation, or speak to the neighbor on behalf of the residents.
You must understand that this method can lead to disputes
Step 4. Call the authorities as a last resort
The authorities are trained to respond to a variety of issues, including disputes between neighbors. However, they also need to deal with more serious cases. So, don't call the police unless the noise from your neighbor's room is disturbing your comfort.
The police can help you mediate if the neighbor is aggressive or you are concerned that the situation will worsen
Step 5. Move if none of the options work
If all of the above don't work or your neighbors are becoming rude, you may have to move. Ask the building manager to transfer you to another unit, such as a room on a higher floor. If not, you may have to terminate the lease.
- If the apartment manager understands the situation, they may be willing to help you find another apartment, or let you terminate the lease without penalty.
- If you don't want to move, turn your apartment into a soundproof room.
Method 3 of 3: Blocking Noise
Step 1. Put on the speakerphone, then play some music to block out any sudden noise
This method is very effective in dealing with short-term noise. Instead of being disturbed by the sound of neighbors practicing playing the clarinet, use a jemala speaker and play your favorite song. The noise will disappear, and you can stay focused on what you love.
- If you're really angry, play soothing music, such as classical or blues music.
- If you're watching television, put on a wireless speakerphone or turn on the on-screen captions feature.
Step 2. Try masking the noise with other sounds
If your neighbor is making a lot of noise at bedtime, try ringing something in your room to disguise the sound. Sounds such as static, running water, or nature sounds can reduce extraneous noise from upstairs.
You can find a special sound-generating machine at most home supply stores, baby supply stores, or online
Step 3. Wear earplugs if you want to sleep peacefully
If there's a lot of noise that other sounds can't get rid of, earplugs can help you sleep better. Thick foam earplugs will seal the ear canal and block out all sound more effectively than anything else.
You can buy earplugs at pharmacies and home supply stores
Step 4. Make the ceiling soundproof for a permanent solution
If all the previous methods don't work, ask the building manager to make the ceiling soundproof. Making a soundproof room is often done by adding an extra layer to the ceiling of the room. While it doesn't block out all noise from upstairs, it can significantly reduce noise levels.
- One option you can try is to install acoustic tiles reinforced with a metal frame, add a layer of concrete to the ceiling, or paint the ceiling with a special product, such as Green Glue.
- Soundproofing a room may not be an option in some situations, but try talking to the building manager for approval.
