Rules to live by if you’re going to be a good apartment neighbor

Rules to live by if you’re going to be a good apartment neighbor

There are plenty of positives about renting an apartment, but living in close proximity to several neighbors usually, doesn’t make the “pros” list. If you are living in an apartment, you might have someone above you, below you, on either side of you or all of the above. 

All of these neighbors means you can have a great sense of community or a lot of frustration because of personality conflicts. The good news is you have influence over your experience because if you’re a good neighbor to those above you, below you and on either side of you they will appreciate your efforts and return them in kind.

Turn down the volume

Scary movies are better when they are loud and so is a good song, but try to save your bass bumping for the day when you own a house. Constantly listening to someone else’s music or television shows is frustrating for everyone nearby. 

What if your neighbor is trying to concentrate on an important work or school assignment, but they can’t drown out the noise flowing from your apartment to theirs? 

If you do have an event planned with the potential for loud music or voices, be courteous and let your neighbors know of your plans so they can choose to be away or at least be prepared for the additional noise. Guests who don’t live in an apartment may not be acutely aware of their volume like you, but a kind reminder can go a long way in keeping sound at a reasonable level.

Don’t practice your clog dancing on the third floor

If you have ever had someone living above you, then you know it sometimes sounds like you live below a family of clog dancers. 

Your neighbors probably aren’t doing jumping jacks at 6 a.m., but it can sure sound like it sometimes. If you are on the top floor, be mindful of how hard you walk, especially during early mornings or late nights. If you are on a bottom floor, try to cut them some slack. The structure of the building may make casual walking seem like stomping. 

If there is a problem with a loud walker above you, then just casually and nicely let them know. Hopefully, they will be more aware of the noise they are making and adjust for you.

Know where to park (and where not to park)

It will only be just a minute right? There’s an empty spot next to the elevator but belongs to someone else. It’s not good etiquette to take a parking spot not assigned to you, even if it is just for a minute.
The person who is renting the spot might show up, and they will be stuck waiting for you to move before they can park. It is simple courtesy to stay in your space, even if it means walking in the rain a little longer than comfortable.

Be quiet in the stairwells and don’t slam your exterior door

Loud conversations in the stairwell will easily travel into your neighbors’ apartments. So does slamming your front door. Try to take phone calls when you are away from the building or in your apartment. Always take a spare moment to close your door gently rather than letting the wind grab it or slamming it.

Keep your house reasonably clean to deter unwanted pests

Leaving out leftovers causes more than just a smelly kitchen. Those crumbs are tasty to unwanted house guests like ants or cockroaches. The problem is they don’t stop at your apartment. They travel everywhere. If you’re fighting these annoying little bugs, it is likely your neighbors are too. Take the time after every meal to pick up your messes so you can keep these creepy crawlers out of your home, and be a good neighbor by helping prevent them from making your home their home too.

Be courteous in common areas

Do you share a laundromat, pool area or a grassy knoll for walking your dog with other tenants at the apartment complex? If so, it’s best to try to keep these spaces in tip-top shape. Pick up after your pets in the walking areas. Don’t use all of the washers or dryers while doing your laundry, and be considerate at the pool by not blaring your music or taking up too much space.  

Check how late it is before vacuuming (Or doing any other loud activities)

Sometimes, you need to do chores, and it won’t be quiet. There is no way you can vacuum silently or move a large piece of furniture without a few loud bangs. If you get the urge to clean late at night, opt to do the dishes, clean the counters or organize the cabinets. Save the other todos for more normal hours like early evenings or late mornings.

Participate in property events

Is the apartment complex hosting a wine party or a dog parade? Whatever it is, make an effort to join the festivities. When you get the opportunity to meet your neighbors in casual events you have the chance to build new friendships. Even when you aren’t at events, a simple hello in the hallway is enough to be neighborly.

Address any issues cordially

Issues can and do arise when you spend so much time living next to other people. If your neighbor does have a habit of making your apartment a tough place to live, just address the issues kindly. If they are walking loud all hours of the night, they might not know it is a problem. Most people are happy to accommodate once they know they are doing something unpleasant. So, knock on their door and say hello and start the conversation. 

Are you looking for a great place to call home? Visit a NorthStar Property or give us a call to learn about availability. 

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