Open Discussion Forum

  • 1.  Families coping with apartment noise rule

    Posted 03-23-2019 07:07 AM
    Hi,

    What support or advice would you give to a family with children ages 2 and 3 and another family with children ages 2, 5, and 7, and another family with children ages 3 and 7, all of whom live (and rent) in a 28-unit building in which the condo board just passed the following noise rule?

    While the Board is well aware that certain types of noise are part of the day-to-day aspects of condominium living, we also have to ensure that those living in the building are not disturbed to such a degree as to affect their "right of quiet enjoyment" in their units. Residents deserve the right to sleep and eat in peace, and to be able to clearly hear their own music and television in their units. Please note: sound travels to units above, below, to the side, and through the halls. This includes loud voices, vibrations, loud music, heavy footsteps, and dropping objects, to name a few. 

    Consequently, the following rule has been passed and is now in effect:  

    "Residents found to be causing excessive noise will first be notified and issued a written, recorded warning. If a second incident occurs, an initial fine of $100 will be assessed to the owner.  Each incident thereafter will incur the $100 fine until the noise disturbance has been dealt with.

    For purposes of implementing this fine, noise includes, but is not limited to, loud music, loud voices, screaming, shouting, the dropping of objection, scraping on the floor, banging, hammering, running, jumping, etc. These noises are considered excessive when they are any one of the following: repetitive, long-lasting, or extremely loud.  If excessive noise is happening at any time day or night,  please email xxxxxxxxxx.  Residents affected by these noises between the hours of 11pm and 7am also have the right to call the city police for violation of the city noise ordinances (though any excessive late night or early morning noise is considered disruptive and should be reported to Management)."

    This will take effect immediately. In the case of rented units, fines will be charged to units owners directly. Neither Management nor the Board will police tenants on behalf of their landlords. Landlords will, however, be notified of violations quickly and directly. 

    Thank you, 
    Management 

    So far, resources I've identified to recommend include Laura Markham's 'Calm Parents, Happy Kids' workbook; and Mindfulness games activity cards by Greenland and Harris. 

    Peace,
    Robin


  • 2.  RE: Families coping with apartment noise rule

    Posted 03-24-2019 01:58 PM
    My grandchildren are 3, 5, 7 and this is how they live in their 100 unit building. Put children on a schedule of regular naps and bed time sleep to help reduce tension and crying. Parents who hug each other in front of their children and also hug their children reduce tension. Minimal to no electronic devices (which are addictive and create tension). Nothing works all of the time. Teach the children to smile and say “Hello, and I hope you have a nice day” to everyone, especially the crabby person who insisted management write such an awful memo. Encourage more people with children to sit on the building board.


    Tammy Steele
    www.TalktoMeMama.com




  • 3.  RE: Families coping with apartment noise rule

    Posted 03-24-2019 08:56 PM
    I would suggest they do whatever they can to muffle noises by using rugs, carpets and even draperies.  The hardwood floor trend is very unforgiving noise-wise.  Of course, noisy toys such as poppers and musical instruments should be used outside.  Developing positive relationships with neighbors can also go a long ways  in noise tolerance.

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    Debra Repeck
    Teacher
    West Ottawa Public Schools
    Holland MI
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  • 4.  RE: Families coping with apartment noise rule

    Posted 03-26-2019 11:02 PM
    Hello, 
    My first reaction is to look into the legal aspect.  I am not sure if they can take your rights away,  that children cannot play.  They knew about children when they rented to you. Just saying to look into the renter's rights in your state,  seems like they are abusing your rights to live a happy life. 
    Thank you
    Melanie
    The Preschool Doctor

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    Melanie
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  • 5.  RE: Families coping with apartment noise rule

    Posted 03-30-2019 10:31 AM
    My friend Sandra who has (been there, done that!!!) says to look online for Housing Discrimination Under the Fair Housing Act
    Children DO have the right to play during daytime hours. Familial status is a protected class under this act.
    https://www.hud.gov/program_offices/fair_housing_equal_opp/discrimination_against_families_children

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    Peggy Ashbrook
    Early childhood science teacher
    Alexandria, VA
    NSTA The Early Years columnist, Science and Children
    Early Years blogger, www.nsta.org/earlyyears
    Author: Science Learning in the Early Years, and
    Science Is Simple
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