Calendar icon September 20, 2024

How to Write a Noise Complaint Letter to Tenant + Free Template

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Andrew Smallwood

Chief Customer Officer - Second Nature

What we'll cover

What Is a Noise Complaint?

Why You Might Need to Send a Noise Complaint Letter

Property Manager Noise Complaint Warning

Noise Complaint Warning Letter to Tenant for Noise Violation

What Should the Noise Complaint Letter Include?

Noise Complaint Letter to Tenant Template

How to Send the Complaint Letter to the Tenant

Final Thoughts

Writing a noise complaint letter to a tenant can be one of the more challenging aspects of real estate property management, but it's a necessary step in ensuring a peaceful living environment in and around the rental property. 

In this blog, we'll discuss:

  • What constitutes a noise complaint?
  • Scenarios in which you may need to send a complaint letter
  • Steps to take before sending a complaint letter
  • Elements to include in the letter (along with a customizable template)
  • How to send the complaint letter effectively

What Is a Noise Complaint?

Noise disturbances are not always cut and dry. Sure, the neighbor’s dad rock garage band is pretty awful, especially around happy hour, but should it be illegal? Opinions may vary!

But fundamentally, a noise complaint happens when sound levels disrupt the peace and comfort of others. These disturbances can range from loud music, parties, or even frequent or loud arguments. Generally, noise complaints are about activities during designated quiet hours, typically late at night or early in the morning.

There are general laws governing excessive noise levels. For instance, many local ordinances set limits on acceptable noise levels during specific times. Property owners and managers should familiarize themselves with these laws and ensure they align with any local or state regulations. 

Consider obtaining legal advice to ensure that you have full clarity on what constitutes a legal noise disturbance.

 

Why You Might Need to Send a Noise Complaint Letter

There are several situations where a noise complaint letter might become necessary. 

Some common examples include:

  • Multiple complaints about loud noises during quiet hours.
  • Specific complaints mentioning a resident by name or address, indicating recurring noise problems.
  • A property manager personally identifies noise disturbances during routine inspections or visits.

Today, we’ll address these common scenarios and provide guidance to property managers who may need to send one of these letters to noisy tenants. We’ll also include a customizable sample letter you can use in these cases. 

Related: Types of Tenant Issues and How to Deal with Them

 

Property Manager Noise Complaint Warning

Before drafting and sending a noise complaint letter, it's crucial to investigate the situation thoroughly. Rushing into sending a complaint without proper groundwork can lead to unnecessary conflict and misunderstandings, and create an uncomfortable resident experience.

Identifying the source of the problem

If complaints have been received from other tenants about the same individual, it's a good starting point to talk to the neighbors to confirm the issue. Evaluate these complaints in detail to gather all the necessary information such as the type of noise disturbance, when they experienced it, and how often these might occur. It might also be helpful to visit the property during reported disturbance times, although this isn't always feasible due to odd hours.

Discussing the issue with the offending tenant

Before issuing a formal complaint, having a conversation with the tenant can sometimes resolve the issue. Talk to them about the complaint, discuss the incident, and ask them to change this behavior. This serves as a preliminary warning, allowing the tenant to improve their behavior before further action needs to be taken, such as eviction. 

It also provides an opportunity for face-to-face de-escalation of the issue before proceeding to more formal corrective or legal action.

 

Noise Complaint Warning Letter to Tenant for Noise Violation

For first-time violations, issuing a warning letter requesting them to comply with quiet hours is often recommended. This letter should be polite yet firm, indicating that there has been a noise complaint (or even several) and explaining the necessary steps to mitigate future disturbances.

Example of a warning letter

[Your name] [Your address] [City, state, ZIP code] [Email address] [Date]

[Tenant's name] [Tenant's address] [City, State, ZIP cod    

Dear [Tenant's name],

This letter is to inform you that we have received a noise complaint regarding your residence. As per our records, the disturbance occurred on [specific date] during [quiet hours]. We kindly request you to be mindful of the noise levels to ensure a peaceful living environment for all.

If the noise issues persist, further action may be taken. 

We appreciate your cooperation in this matter.

Sincerely, 

[Your Name]

 

What Should the Noise Complaint Letter Include?

A well-structured noise complaint letter should contain the following elements:

  • Notification of complaint: Explain that one or more noise complaints have occurred, and that this issue needs to be addressed.
  • Further details: Back up your claims by providing the total number of complaints that you’ve received, and the timeframe they occurred. If the exact information isn’t available, provide some general timelines (such as “late Wednesday evening”).
  • Legal information: If there are applicable local laws or noise ordinances, share that with the tenant, as well as how it applies to their actions.
  • Lease agreement reference: Reference the rental agreement if it mentions noise-related laws and ordinances in detail and the consequences of not complying with them.
  • Proposed solutions: Suggest ways to keep noises at a reasonable level and to avoid loud activities during designated quiet hours.
  • Timeframe for compliance: Give the tenant a specific period of time to reduce their noise levels, and inform them that you’ll follow up with them.
  • Consequences of non-compliance: Clearly state the potential consequences, such as eviction proceedings, if the noise disturbance continues.

 

Noise Complaint Letter to Tenant Template

Here’s a customizable letter template for a noise complaint:

[Your name] [Your address] [City, State, ZIP code] [Phone number] [Email address] [Date]

[Tenant's name] [Tenant's address] [City, State, ZIP code]

Dear [Tenant's name],

This letter is to inform you that we have received several noise complaints regarding your unit. The disturbances have been reported to occur during [specific dates and times]. This is in violation of the noise regulations stated in your lease agreement and local noise ordinances.

We request that you reduce noise levels, especially during quiet hours, which are from [start time] to [end time]. Please take immediate action to remedy this situation. We will check in again after [specific period] to ensure compliance.

If the noise disturbances continue, we may have to take further action, which could include eviction.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Sincerely, 

[Your name]

 

How to Send the Complaint Letter to the Tenant

The complaint letter can be sent via email or delivered as a hard copy. Make sure you retain a copy for your records, noting the date and method of delivery.

 

Final Thoughts

Handling noise complaints efficiently is crucial for maintaining a peaceful living environment. By following the steps outlined above and using the provided template, your property management company can address noise issues effectively and foster a more harmonious community for all renters.

Learn how you can further improve the resident experience, with Second Nature’s Resident Benefits Package.
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How to Write a Pet Violation Letter to Tenants + Free Template

Dealing with pets in rental properties can be tricky. While our furry friends bring comfort and joy to many, they can also cause issues for property managers as well as property owners. That’s why it's essential to address the situation professionally and promptly when a tenant brings in an unauthorized pet. In this blog, we’ll discuss: What a pet violation letter to the tenant is The process of confirming an unauthorized pet lease violation How to write a pet violation letter to the tenant And bonus: we’ll share a free pet violation letter to tenant template you can customize to help you through the process. Note on Language: At Second Nature, we like to say “resident” rather than “tenant,” but will use the terms interchangeably since many property managers have official terminology around these templates. What Is a Pet Violation Letter to Tenant? A pet violation letter is a formal notice sent to tenants when they’ve violated the terms of their lease agreement by having an unauthorized pet. This type of letter serves to notify the pet owner of the violation and the consequences of not resolving it. The primary goal is to ensure compliance with the lease while maintaining a respectful and professional relationship with the tenant. The letter is typically sent after a property manager has confirmed that a tenant is keeping an unauthorized pet in their rental unit. This can be an issue when a lease explicitly prohibits pets, or when a pet does not meet specific criteria outlined in the lease, such as size or breed restrictions. (Note that while dog breeds often associated with aggressive behavior include pit bulls, dobermans, German shepherds, and others - actual breed restrictions vary by state). Put simply, unauthorized pets are animals kept by tenants without the property manager's consent. This issue can arise for a variety of reasons, including the tenant's desire to avoid pet deposits, fees, or restrictions, or simply because the tenant wasn't aware of the rules. Regardless of the cause, it’s important to address the situation before it escalates. Property managers might enforce a no-pets rule for several reasons, including protecting the property from potential damage, minimizing noise, or reducing allergens that might affect future tenants. There are also legal considerations to keep in mind, especially regarding service animals and emotional support animals (ESA), which we’ll cover later in this post. Pet violation in the lease agreement A rental agreement often includes a pet policy outlining what is and isn’t allowed. Some common restrictions might include weight limits, breed restrictions, and behavioral requirements. For instance, lease terms might allow pets under 25 pounds or prohibit aggressive breeds. There could also be rules about how many pets are allowed or requirements for pet insurance. Property managers have the right to enforce no-pets policies, and this is generally supported by law. However, enforcement must be consistent and in line with the lease agreement. If a tenant violates the pet policy, the property manager can request that the pet be removed or even take legal action if the tenant refuses to comply. An important caveat is that you need to be familiar with state laws as well as federal laws regarding pets. Service animals, for example, are protected under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means that even if your lease has a no-pets policy, you must accommodate service animals without charging additional fees. Emotional support animals are a bit different from service animals – they’re protected under the Fair Housing Act, but property managers are allowed to ask for proper documentation. As a disclaimer, we urge you to obtain legal advice to ensure you are not stepping on any local regulations, as this blog post does not constitute formal legal guidance! Related: If you do offer pets in your rental property, check out our blog - Pet Policy for Renters: Best Practices for Property Managers to find out more. Examples of unauthorized pet scenarios Unauthorized pets can cause a range of issues, from minor inconveniences to significant property damage. Here are a few examples of common scenarios: Odors: Pets, particularly dogs and cats, can leave behind strong odors that linger in a rental unit long after they’re gone. These smells can be tough to eliminate and may require professional cleaning. Fur: Pet fur can accumulate on carpets, furniture, and air ducts, leading to additional cleaning expenses. Damage: Pets can cause visible damage to a rental unit. Dogs might chew up carpet or scratch wood floors, while cats could damage walls or furniture. It’s important to document these issues when addressing unauthorized pets. Clear evidence will help you communicate the problem to the tenant effectively, as well as help you deal with any ramifications around security deposits. Exceptions to the rule Not all pets can be treated the same under the law. Service animals and ESAs have special protections that property managers must respect. A tenant with a disability is entitled to keep a service animal, even if the property has a no-pets policy. These animals are not considered pets but rather essential aids for their owners. Emotional support animals are slightly different. While they don’t have the same legal status as service animals, property managers must still make reasonable accommodations under the Fair Housing Act. If a tenant provides a valid ESA letter from a licensed mental health professional, the property manager must allow the animal unless it poses a direct threat to the safety of others or causes significant property damage. When presented with an ESA letter, be careful not to overstep privacy laws when verifying its legitimacy. A respectful approach is key to maintaining a good relationship with the tenant while upholding the property’s rules. Related: Pet Screening 101: How Top Property Managers Do It Confirming an Unauthorized Pet Lease Violation Before sending out a pet violation letter, it’s essential to confirm that the tenant is actually in violation of the lease agreement. This might involve observing the pet directly, collecting evidence from neighbors, or discovering signs of a pet in the unit, such as fur or odors. Once you have confirmed the violation, check the lease to ensure the tenant is aware of the policy they’ve breached. When addressing unauthorized pets, start by communicating clearly with the tenant. Explain the violation and give them an opportunity to correct the issue. In some cases, a simple conversation can resolve the problem without the need for a formal cure or quit notice. If the tenant refuses to comply, you may need to take further action, such as issuing a formal pet violation letter or, in extreme cases, beginning the eviction process. Writing a Pet Violation Letter to the Tenant When crafting a pet violation notice, clarity and professionalism are crucial. Here are the key elements that should be included: Tenant’s information: Start with the tenant’s name, address, and the date of the letter. Violation description: Clearly state the violation, including the specific pet policy they’ve breached. Mention the lease agreement and the relevant clauses. Evidence: Include any evidence you’ve gathered, such as photos or reports from neighbors. Resolution options: Outline what the tenant needs to do to resolve the issue, whether that means removing the pet or paying additional fees. Deadline: Provide a deadline for compliance. This gives the tenant a clear timeframe to address the violation. Consequences: Explain the consequences of failing to comply, such as fines or legal action. Contact information: Include your contact information for any questions or concerns. Here’s a template to guide you through the process. Pet Violation Letter to Tenant Template [Your Name] [Your Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] [Phone Number] [Email Address] [Date] [Tenant’s Name] [Tenant’s Address] [City, State, ZIP Code] Dear [Tenant’s Name], This letter is to inform you that we have discovered a violation of your lease agreement regarding pets. Our records indicate that you currently have an unauthorized [type of pet] in your rental unit at [property address]. According to your lease, pets are not permitted without prior approval and proper documentation. We have attached evidence of this violation, including [brief description of evidence]. Please review your lease agreement, specifically [mention relevant section], which outlines our pet policy. To resolve this issue, we request that you [describe resolution, e.g., remove the pet from the premises or provide the necessary documentation]. Please comply with this request by [insert deadline], or further action may be taken, including fines or legal proceedings. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this matter further, please do not hesitate to contact us at [phone number or email]. We appreciate your prompt attention to this matter and hope to resolve it as soon as possible. Sincerely, [Your Name] [Title] [Company Name] If this is the first violation, a warning letter may suffice and can leave space for a humane and respectful resolution. In this case, follow up with a check-in after a suitable period. If the tenant has failed to comply, follow up with a more formal notice and be prepared to escalate the situation as needed, up to and including an eviction notice. Final Thoughts Managing a rental property comes with many responsibilities, and handling unauthorized pets is just one of them. By staying on top of these issues and communicating clearly with tenants, you can protect your property while fostering a positive tenancy experience for the resident. For more tips on improving the resident experience, learn about Second Nature’s Resident Benefits Package.

Calendar icon September 21, 2024

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How to Write a Letter Notifying Your Tenant of the Sale of Property

Selling a rental property can be complex, especially when tenants are involved. But there are plenty of ways to notify your tenant of the sale in a clear, respectful, and legally compliant manner that also reduces their anxiety or concerns. In today’s blog, we’ll provide a practical walkthrough to help you draft this important letter, including: What a notice of sale of property letter is Rights of tenants when the property owner sells the property What the sale of property letter should include Sample letter to notify tenant of sale of property Note on language: Here at Second Nature, we prefer the term “resident” rather than “tenant,” as that emphasizes the human element over the transactional. But because legacy property management systems and documentation often make exclusive reference to “tenants,” we’ll favor that term in today’s post. What is a Notice of Sale of Property Letter? A notice of sale of property letter is a formal type of communication that informs a tenant that their rental property is being sold. It outlines the upcoming changes that will occur, reassures tenants about their rights, and details how the sale will affect their tenancy. You might wonder if selling a rental property is even possible with tenants in place. Yes, it is. However, the process requires careful consideration of the lease terms and local laws. If the tenant is on a fixed-term lease, they often have the right to remain until the lease expires. If the lease is month-to-month, the new owner may have more flexibility. But in all cases, understanding and following legal guidelines is crucial as they may vary based on your location. Why You May Want to Sell a Rental Property Property owners might have a variety of reasons why they’re planning on selling the rental property. We’ll break down some of the most common scenarios below: Potential for significant financial return: The property has appreciated significantly recently, and selling now could provide a substantial profit for the owner, and they want to capitalize on that as soon as possible. Eliminates the property management responsibilities: Managing the property has become too time-consuming or challenging, so selling is the best option to free up the owner’s time. Freeing up capital for other investments: They’re looking to reinvest in a different type of real estate, another location, or explore other markets entirely. Change of priorities due to finances: Financial needs, such as funding their retirement or other investments, are driving the decision. While selling a rental property has plenty of advantages, it also has its drawbacks. Here is a look at some disadvantages of selling a rental property: Loss of steady income: Monthly rent means money coming in at the same time every month. Removing that means another means of income needs to be secured. Potential legal challenges: There are many complex laws and regulations to consider, as well as logistics, so if not handled properly - this could lead to major issues down the line, including legal action from the tenant. Reputation: If not handled smoothly and above board, this can cause disruptions for tenants, which could lead to potential damage to a property manager or the property management company’s reputation. Rights of Tenants When the Property Owner Sells the Property Tenants have rights that must be respected when a property is sold. Knowing these rights and planning accordingly can help you avoid legal disputes. Please note that this guide does not constitute official legal advice, and it’s crucial to consult local laws or legal counsel for specific details. Some common laws and regulations you should be aware of include: Local laws and lease terms: Depending on your state or city, there may be detailed regulations about how to handle a property sale. For instance, some areas require you to honor the current lease terms, even with a new owner. In certain states, tenants with month-to-month leases might need to be given a specific amount of notice before being asked to move out. Tenants may not have to move: In some jurisdictions, tenant rights specify that they have the right to stay in the property, even after it’s sold. For instance, under California law, “tenants who have a rental agreement have the right to remain through the end of the rental agreement under the same terms and conditions. The new owner may be able to end a periodic tenancy (for example, a month-to-month tenancy), but only if allowed by law and after giving the tenant the required advance notice.” In other words, a buyer could inherit the lease, and this is especially true for tenants with long-term leases. Some local laws also require that tenants be allowed to stay until the end of their lease term. Always verify this with a legal expert. Utilities and maintenance: As the owner, you must continue providing a habitable property by providing utilities like water and electricity until the tenant moves out. Shutting off utilities during the sale process is illegal, and under criminal law, owners could be charged if they turn these off. For instance, New York Real Property Law § 235 provides protections for tenants, including prohibiting landlords from willfully interrupting utilities – and violations can be considered criminal acts under New York Penal Law. Additionally, if you plan to conduct maintenance or repairs, you need to notify the tenant as required by local laws. Property showings: Although giving notice for property showings isn’t always legally required, it’s good practice to inform tenants well in advance. Most state laws require you to provide reasonable notice before entering the property, usually 24 to 48 hours, though this can vary. Make sure you refer to your state’s tenant laws before scheduling any showings. As a matter of courtesy, prospective buyers should be accompanied by licensed real estate professionals, but in the event that this is not possible, it makes sense to keep open communication channels with the tenant and to maintain high standards for prospective buyers. Security deposits: If the tenant moves out before the sale, their security deposit must be handled appropriately. The deposit should be transferred to the new owner, who will hold it until the tenant vacates the property. Be sure to review your state’s laws to avoid any disputes over this process. As a point of accounting interest, note that on balance sheets, a refundable security deposit appears as a liability – the tenant security deposit belongs to the tenant and must be transferred to the new owner to be held until the tenant moves out. Lease terms: If the property is sold while the tenant is still living there, in most cases the new owner takes over the existing lease terms. However, this can vary based on state laws and the specifics of the lease agreement. For instance, under Florida law, new owners can provide a 90-day written notice of lease termination if they intend to occupy the property as a primary residence. What Should the Sale of Property Letter Include? When notifying your tenant of a property sale, the letter should cover essential points. Luckily, we’ve provided a breakdown of what should be included. Basic information Start with your name (or the property management company’s name), the date, the tenant’s name, and the property address. Include your contact information for any questions the tenant might have. Details about the sale Inform the tenant that the property is being sold. Be transparent about the process, including whether the lease and deposit will transfer to the new owner. Let them know that the property will go on the market, and they may need to cooperate with showings. Showing information Mention how much notice you’ll provide before a property showing. If state laws require specific notice periods (such as at least a one-day notice), cite them to reassure the tenant that their rights are being respected. Clarify that any showings will be conducted by licensed real estate professionals, and be considerate of the tenant’s schedule. Responsibilities before the sale If the tenant has any responsibilities, such as keeping the property tidy for showings, outline them in this section. You may want to consider offering a cleaning service to make it easy for the tenant to keep the property in great condition. In all cases, be polite and professional, and make sure the tenant understands what is expected of them. Incentives (if applicable) If you’re offering any incentives, such as paying for a hotel stay during showings, assisting with moving expenses, or providing a rent discount, mention them here. While not mandatory, these gestures can ease the transition for your tenant and foster goodwill. Relocation support If you manage other properties, you may wish to let the tenant know of any available openings, but this is completely optional and just a common courtesy you can provide to help ease the transition. Thank you section Close the letter by thanking the tenant for their cooperation during this process. Acknowledge the inconvenience this may cause and express your appreciation for their help in making the process as smooth as possible. Letter to Notify Tenant of Sale of Property Template Here’s a sample notice letter template you can use to inform your tenant of the sale, and customize to fit your needs: [Your Name/Property Management Company] [Date] [Tenant’s Name] [Property Address] Dear [Tenant’s Name], I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to inform you that the property you are currently renting at [Property Address] is being put up for sale. This means there will be some changes in the near future, but I want to assure you that your rights as a tenant will be respected throughout this process. Your current lease will be transferred to the new owner, and all terms will remain in effect. You will be notified in advance of any showings, and we will work to make the process as smooth as possible for you. If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me directly at [Your Contact Information]. Thank you for your cooperation during this time. We appreciate your help in keeping the property presentable for potential buyers and making this transition as seamless as possible. Sincerely, [Your Name] Learn more: How to Write a Notice to Vacate Letter to Tenants [with free template]) Final Thoughts Selling a rental property involves careful planning, especially when tenants are involved. A well-crafted letter can help ease the transition and ensure a smooth process for everyone. Remember to stay informed about your local laws and consult legal experts when necessary. If you're looking for ways to enhance the resident experience during this transition, consider improving tenant satisfaction with services like the Resident Benefits Package. Learn more about these packages from Second Nature today.

Calendar icon September 21, 2024

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