There's nothing worse than finally falling asleep just to be woken up by loud music from your neighbor right above you. It's not easy to co-exist with someone else who doesn't necessarily share your same schedule. It might not even be their music. It could just be the way they walk or even talk. There is usually a way to work things out with your neighbor and they might not even be aware that they are making noise. There are some ways to handle the noise that can give you peace at night and with your neighbor.
Chances are your neighbor isn't even aware that they are making noise. Some issues may not be resolved because of the actual apartment. The walls may not be thick enough or there are hardwood floors that simply don't absorb sounds. You may not be able to change the building design but you may be able to change your neighbor's noise levels. Get to know your neighbors and ask them if there is an agreement you both can come up with. If their music is too loud, ask them to aim their speakers away from the walls. And if you live in apartment with hardwood floors, ask your neighbor to avoid walking in high-heeled shoes or hard sole shoes. If your neighbor has parties, ask them to let you know ahead of time so you can plan ahead. It boils down to talking to your neighbor and coming up with a plan that you both can live with.
If you have exhausted all options and your neighbor is still not working with you, start keeping a record. Every time you speak with your neighbor, document the date and time. Chances are if you have to keep reminding your neighbors to be quiet, they might not care. Once you have everything documented, it's time to take it to the building manager. Most leases have noise clauses and if you make them aware that your neighbor is breaking the lease, the manager will usually put a stop to it right away. Usually that's about as far as it needs to go. If you live in New York, there's even a number that you call - 311 - that documents the noise complaints for you to give to your apartment manager. Sometimes the police have to be brought into the situation. If it comes to tha,t you may have to sign a complaint or press charges against the neighbor. Hopefully, it doesn't have to go that far as long as you take care of the situation right away and calmly.
Dealing with a noisy neighbor can usually be handled civilly if you approach them calmly and reasonably. There are some things that cannot be helped. If the apartment building was made with very thin walls or floors your neighbor really can't help it. They pay their rent as well and have just as much right to walk and listen to their music as you do. Coming to an agreement, however, will make things easier for the both you.
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