Everyone is aware that renovations are happening in a number of suites this summer. We’ve heard it loud and clear.  Depending on the type of tools being used, the sound can be considerable, and unfortunately it travels.

Our condominiums have rules to balance the needs of the renovators/builders, and the nearby neighbours who fear for their sanity.

Time is set aside for noisy activities like hammering and using power tools. These jobs are limited to between 9 am and 5 pm during the week, or 10 am to 4 pm on Saturday. No noisy work is allowed on Sunday.

Quiet work like painting, plastering, etc. is also allowed an extra hour on Saturday and on Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm.

To workers these hours may be inconvenient but to the neighbours forced to hear construction sounds, the hours go on and on. The rules are a way to compromise, since both sides have their reasons and rights.

Here’s a tip: It is a gracious goodwill gesture to warn your neighbours when you are beginning a noisy renovation. And here’s hoping for all within earshot that the work is expedited as much as possible.