Florida Landlords: How to Deal with Tenant Noise Complaints

Florida Landlords: Handling Complaints of Excessive Noise 

Managing noise complaints can be challenging for landlords and property managers. Noise problems can cause stress for both tenants and property managers. 

This is especially true in busy areas of Central Florida, like Orlando and Kissimmee.

Knowing how to handle a noisy tenant can keep good relationships. It also creates a more peaceful environment for everyone.

Understanding local noise ordinances and building codes is a good idea. Also knowing when it’s appropriate to involve authorities.

Below, we explore tips and strategies to address noise complaints effectively and legally.

Understanding Local Noise Ordinance in Central Florida

In Florida, tenants enjoy the right to peaceful and quiet enjoyment of their living spaces. Local laws usually trump State laws.

Excessive noise—whether from loud music, pets. (barking dogs). Such disturbances during quiet hours—can infringe on this right.

Central Florida cities have noise laws in place to address noise pollution.

While specific regulations vary by city, most prohibit excessive noise during nighttime hours.

For serious problems, landlords or tenants may need to call local law enforcement or code enforcement for help.

HOA Noise Rules

Properties managed by Homeowners Associations (HOAs) usually have noise rules. These noise rules often require quiet hours from 10 PM to 7 AM.

HOAs may even impose fines on those who violate noise rules.

As a landlord or property manager, you should tell tenants about HOA rules early on. Including these rules in the lease agreement is best to ensure disclosure.

Steps to Handle Complaints

Landlords can take specific steps to address complaints about excessive noise:

• Listen and Record: Document every complaint in detail, including the time, type of noise, and frequency. This helps you assess the severity and determine whether to take formal action.
  
  
• Investigate: Visit the property to observe the noise at the reported times. Checking with other tenants can also help gauge whether this is an isolated complaint or a more widespread issue.
  
  
• Communicate: Politely address the noise source with the tenant, reminding them of their responsibility to abide by noise rules.
  
  
• Mediation: If direct communication doesn't work, consider mediation to resolve the issue amicably between tenants.
  
  
• Legal Action: If mediation fails, landlords can escalate to formal warnings or eviction processes in severe cases.

Managing Noise in Multi-Family Properties

Multi-family buildings can amplify sound, making noise management even more critical. Here are some strategies that help in reducing noise complaints in shared spaces:

• Set Clear Expectations: Add a noise policy to the lease agreement's table of contents. This policy should explain acceptable noise levels and quiet hours. You should provide these rules and regulations alongside written notice. Tenants should understand that violating noise rules could result in formal action.
  
  
• Regular Communication: Use newsletters or emails to remind tenants of noise rules and encourage respectful behavior.
  
  
• Soundproofing: Installing sound-absorbing materials, carpets, and curtains can improve acoustical performance between units. Consider adding insulation to reduce the transfer of impact sounds through walls and floors.
  
  
• Build Community: Foster a sense of community among tenants. When people know their neighbors, they’re more likely to be considerate.

Legal Options for Landlords

If efforts to manage noise amicably fail, landlords have options to resolve serious noise issues:

• Contact Local Authorities: If loud disturbances keep happening, landlords and tenants in Central Florida can take action.
  
  They can contact local police or code enforcement for help. In non-emergency, the local code enforcement may issue a warning or citation to the offender.
  
  
• Consult an Attorney: If legal action is necessary, consult with an attorney specializing in landlord-tenant law. Legal counsel can provide guidance on eviction or other formal actions if a tenant repeatedly violates noise policies.
  
  Pay special attention to tenants paying rent during notices, if landlord fails to deny it could effect the process.

Tips for Landlords and Property Managers

• Be Proactive: Address noise complaints swiftly to prevent escalation. Tenants must take prompt action, especially if loud noise affects multiple residents or within a common area.
  
  
• Educate Tenants: Provide explicit guidelines regarding noise regulation. Ensure tenants understand the consequences of violating noise policies.
  
  
• Enforce Rules: Apply noise policies fairly and consistently to maintain a harmonious living environment. Remind tenants to respect local noise laws to avoid legal consequences.

Conclusion

Handling noise complaints in Central Florida rental properties involves balancing tenant rights, local ordinances, and effective management strategies.

By setting clear rules, proactively managing complaints, and understanding legal recourse, property managers can resolve issues effectively. 

Working with a property management company offers high level support for noise nuisance.

For help with your properties, and for comprehensive property management services, contact Allegiant Management Group today. Learn more about our Orlando property management services.

Allegiant Management Group offers property management services in Orlando and Central Florida. 

Services include rent collection, security deposits, marketing, tenant screening, accounting and more!

Watch our Video on Excessive Noise in Florida Rentals

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer: The information provided is for general information purposes only and is not legal advice. Please consult a qualified attorney for legal advice. This information does not create an attorney-client relationship.

Blob Updated: 01/18/2025