Uninsulated or improperly-installed floors can actually magnify sounds, making everyday sounds like walking, cooking, or talking seem much louder to you. Heavy foot traffic around dinnertime is one thing, but late-night parties on a weeknight are another.
A noise ordinance might include observing quiet hours, having a certain percentage of the floor covered by carpets or rugs, or restrictions against loud animals.
Try saying something like, “Hi, I’m your downstairs neighbor. I don’t know if you know this, but sometimes your music comes through the floor late at night. It was especially loud on Tuesday, but last night I didn’t hear it as much. ” Suggest a specific plan going forward. For instance, you might say something like, “I have to work really early. Do you think you could turn down your music after about 10:30?”
Make a copy of the letter, and date it, in case the problem continues. Your note could say something along the lines of, “Hi #212! I live below you, and I was wondering if you’d mind waiting to run on the treadmill until after 6:30 a. m. ? It sounds like it’s right above my bedroom, and the noise wakes me up. I hope that’s not an inconvenience! Thanks!”
If the noise is during normal hours, it might be worth it to just wait it out, especially if you don’t normally hear much from your neighbors.
The log might look something like “Sunday Aug. 7 - Loud party lasting until midnight. Knocked on the door but no one answered,” followed by “Wednesday Aug. 10 - Sounded like a couple arguing. No action taken. ”
Try talking to the neighbors on either side of the noisy tenant, as well as anyone who lives above them.
You should be aware that this could escalate the problem.
The police can help mediate if your neighbors are aggressive or you’re concerned the situation may turn explosive.
If your landlord is aware of the situation, they may be willing to work with you on finding another apartment, or they might allow you to break your lease without penalty. If moving isn’t an option, you may need to soundproof your apartment instead.
If you’re feeling really upset, put on calming music, like classical music or the blues. If you’re trying to watch TV, get a pair of wireless headphones or turn on your television’s closed captioning.
You can find white noise machines at most home stores, anywhere that sells baby gear, or online.
You can buy earplugs from drug stores and home improvement stores.
Some options include installing acoustic tiles held in place by a metal grid, adding a second layer of sheetrock onto the ceiling, or painting the ceiling with a dampening product like Green Glue. Soundproofing will not be an option in all cases, but it can be worth it to talk to your landlord to see if they’ll approve the changes.
