What to Do When You're the One Getting a Noise Complaint

Step 1: Don't Get Defensive. Listen.

Your first instinct might be to say, "I'm not being that loud!" or "It's the middle of the day!" Resist this urge. The fact that your neighbor took the step to talk to you means the noise is genuinely affecting them. Take a deep breath and listen to what they have to say.

They may be completely unaware of how sound travels in your building. The footsteps you think are normal might be causing a deep thudding sound in their ceiling. The music you keep at a "reasonable" volume might have its bass amplified through a shared wall.

A simple, "I'm sorry, I honestly didn't realize it was that loud on your side. Thanks for letting me know," can de-escalate the situation immediately.

Step 2: Understand the Specifics

Ask clarifying questions to understand the real problem. This shows you're taking their complaint seriously and helps you find a targeted solution.

• "Is it a particular time of day that's the worst?"
• "Is it the music itself, or more the bass?"
• "Which room is it loudest in for you?"

Knowing that the issue is your 7 AM vacuuming or the subwoofer on your TV gives you a specific problem to solve, which is much easier than a vague "you're too loud" complaint.

Step 3: Work Toward a Simple Compromise

Most noise issues can be solved with small, reasonable adjustments. You don't have to live in complete silence, but you can make compromises that show you're a considerate neighbor.

• For impact noise: Consider buying an area rug for your main living space or putting felt pads on the legs of your chairs.
• For music/TV noise: Move speakers away from shared walls, turn down the bass/subwoofer, or consider using headphones after your building's quiet hours.
• For chore noise: Agree to avoid noisy activities like vacuuming or running the dishwasher very early in the morning or late at night.

Exchanging phone numbers can also be a great step, allowing your neighbor to send you a quick text if the noise gets too loud, instead of letting their frustration build.

What if the Complaint Seems Unreasonable?

Sometimes, you may get a complaint that feels completely out of line. If you've made good-faith efforts to compromise and the complaints continue about normal, everyday living sounds during reasonable hours, you may need to get your landlord or HOA involved as a mediator. Keep a log of your interactions and the steps you've taken to be quieter. This documentation will support your position that you are making a reasonable effort to be a good neighbor.

The Takeaway

Receiving a noise complaint isn't an indictment of your character—it's a normal part of living in close proximity to others. By responding with empathy and a willingness to compromise, you can turn a potentially negative interaction into a stronger, more respectful relationship with your neighbor.