It
is not uncommon for many renters to either play music quite loud or play an
instrument. In the event that you own a multi dwelling property this can be
even more of an important issue as other tenants in the building may not
appreciate being disturbed by loud music. How you handle these issues is quite
important because it involves a fine balance of maintaining happy renters and
yet ensuring that neighbors surrounding your property are not disturbed.
If
you fail to handle the issue properly they may decide to rent elsewhere leaving
you with vacancies and that can be expensive. Furthermore, your property may
gain a bad reputation, making it difficult to rent to future tenants as well. When
you are facing this type of problem there are actually several different ways
that you can handle the issue.
First,
it is imperative that you make sure you have discussed your property rules with
tenants before they actually move in. This type of action can help to prevent
problems before they even begin.
Sometimes,
checking on a property early in the morning or late at night is not feasible
especially if you live a good distance away. In this case, consider asking your
neighbors to advise you if your tenants disturb them with loud music or noise.
Remember that it is always best for neighbors in the area to advise you about
the problem so that you will have an opportunity to correct it before they
contact the city or the police with their complaints. This will also assure
neighbors that you are concerned about the neighborhood and maintaining a
peaceful atmosphere for everyone.
Once
you have contacted your tenant verbally regarding the matter, make sure you
follow-up with a reminder in writing. This should help your tenant to
understand the severity of the situation and will also provide you with the
documentation you need in the event the behavior continues and you must
consider evicting them because of it.
Ideally,
the best way to handle this type of situation is to prevent it before it ever
begins. Explain to your tenants when they move in that you regard the issue as
serious and that you will check up on the property from time to time. If you
decide to rent to students, this is especially important. By making sure that
you have established a cordial relationship with your tenants early on they
will be far more likely to respect your rules and understand where the line is
drawn so they will not cross it.
Ensure
that you have included terms within your lease stating when exactly music may
be played. You should also include in your lease statements indicating specific
times when music may not be played so loudly that it can be heard outside the
individual unit. For example, you might state that music may not be played
before 8am and after 10pm. You should also make sure that these terms include
not only music but also actual musical instruments as well as televisions.
Properly
managing a rental property means not only providing a pleasant living
environment for your tenants but also ensuring that your rental property does
not disturb others in the neighborhood.
