Quiet Efficiency: How to successfully combat working from home noise disturbances
21 July 2023 | Sensorpix Digital Content
Introduction
As working from home continues to gain popularity, more and more professionals are finding themselves in the comfort of their homes while pursuing their careers. While working from home offers numerous benefits, such as flexibility and increased work-life balance, it also presents unique challenges.
One of the most significant obstacles to productivity when working remotely is the potential for various disturbances that can disrupt focus and concentration. In this article, we will explore some common disturbances encountered while working from home, and provide practical tips on how to mitigate their impact.
Noise disturbances and sectional title law
One of the primary challenges when working from home is dealing with noise disturbances. Unlike a traditional office setting, your home will likely have a different soundscape, including family members, pets, neighbours, or street noise. These distractions can significantly impact your ability to concentrate and complete tasks efficiently.
Although dealing with this issue can be difficult, let's look at what the Sectional Titles Schemes Management Act's specified conduct guidelines have to say concerning noise disturbance:
The conduct of occupiers and guests in schemes is governed by Prescribed Conduct Rule (“PCR”) 7.
According to PCR 7(1), an owner or occupant of a section may not make noise likely to obstruct another person's peaceful enjoyment of the scheme.
The owner or occupant of a section is required under PCR 7(3) to take reasonable measures to ensure that their guests do not act in a manner likely to obstruct the peaceful enjoyment of another person in the scheme.
Noise rules are usually covered in a sectional title scheme’s conduct rules, which will guide occupiers on what is and what is not permitted, as well as the time that noises may be endured.
Noise disturbance and when to complain
There is nothing wrong with venting about something bugging you, but you can take steps to prevent the conflict from escalating into open hostility.
First, you must determine whether your complaint is reasonable. Even if you believe it is, should you respond immediately or wait until you have calmed down? Should you learn to live with the situation? If the noise wakes you up, or keeps you from going to sleep, especially if the neighbours have a pattern of being extremely loud, then obviously something needs to be addressed.
For example, instead of barging into the neighbour's house right away and asking that the music be turned down, it would be a good idea to first have a polite conversation with them about the noise levels the following day. People are frequently difficult to reason with when intoxicated, and may approach problems differently than when sober.
If you cannot resolve a noise issue with your neighbour directly, you may complain to the trustees or the managing agent of the body corporate in writing. If, after some time, the problem is still not resolved satisfactorily, you may take your complaint to the Community Schemes Ombud Service (“CSOS”) for relief in your matter.
Potential noise disturbances when working from home
Working from home has become more common in recent years, and the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend. While there are many benefits of working from home, such as a flexible schedule and increased productivity, there are also potential noise disturbances that can make it challenging to concentrate.
Here are some of the most common noise disturbances that people working from home may encounter, as well as some tips on how to deal with them.
1. Noise from neighbours or street traffic
Noisy neighbours can include noises such as loud music, parties, renovations, power tools, children and domestic disputes.
When you're working from home, noise from outside can be distracting. If you live in an apartment or a house near a busy street, you may hear cars, trucks, and other noises throughout the day. To deal with this type of noise, try to set up your workspace in a quieter part of your home. You can also use noise-cancelling headphones to block out outside noise.
If the noise is emanating from a neighbour’s use of noisy appliances then you may consider talking to your neighbour about the problem or laying a complaint to the relevant trustee.
2. Noise from family members or roommates
If you share your living space with others, it can be challenging to work without being interrupted. Whether it's your children, partner, or roommates, their noise can distract you from your work. One way to deal with this is to set clear boundaries with your family or roommates.
Let them know when you're working and that you need to be undisturbed during that time. Consider putting a sign on your door to remind them.
3. Noise from pets
Pets can be a great source of comfort and companionship when you're working from home. However, they can also be very noisy. If your pet is constantly barking, meowing, or scratching, it can be hard to focus. To deal with this, try to keep your pet in a different room or outside when you need to concentrate.
Many schemes change their conduct guidelines to prohibit pets. Alternatively, residents are allowed to have pets in their flats, providing they obtain permission from the trustees, unless these restrictions are amended.
The most common problem with pets is typically barking dogs. The trustees may request that the owner have the dog removed from the apartment if a resident has complained that the dog is a nuisance and the situation does not improve. In this regard, each province has issued the relevant set of pet By-Laws which include the maximum period that a dog is permitted to bark within a thirty minute or one hour period.
4. Noise from appliances
When you're working at home, you may be more aware of the constant hum of appliances such as your fridge, dishwasher, air conditioner, generators and power tools. Some of these noises may be due to neighbours or contractors working in the complex.
To minimise this noise, try to locate your workspace away from these appliances or close the doors and windows to your working area. Alternatively, and in extreme cases of noise disturbance, consider going to work at the nearby coffee shop until the particular noise may be over, as in the case of contractor’s completing their work.
If the noise is emanating from a neighbour’s use of noisy appliances then you may consider talking to your neighbour about the problem or laying a complaint to the relevant trustee.
Tips to mitigate noise disturbances
Designate a dedicated Workspace:
Creating a designated workspace within your home is crucial for minimising noise disturbances. Ideally, choose a separate room with a door that can be closed to create a physical barrier between your work area and the rest of the house. This not only helps to minimise noise but also signals to others that you are in "work mode" and should not be disturbed.
Communicate your work schedule:
Open communication with your family members, roommates, or anyone you share your living space with is essential. Inform them about your work schedule and the importance of maintaining a quiet environment during specific hours. By setting expectations and boundaries, you can reduce interruptions and ensure a more conducive work environment.
Noise-canceling headphones:
Investing in a good pair of noise-canceling headphones can be a game-changer when it comes to combating external disturbances. These headphones use advanced technology to actively reduce or eliminate ambient noise, allowing you to focus on your work without being affected by the sounds around you. Whether it's the neighbours lawn mower or construction noise outside, noise-canceling headphones can provide you with a peaceful oasis.
Establish ground rules:
While it's important to communicate your work schedule, it's equally vital to establish ground rules with your household members. For example, you can set designated quiet hours when interruptions should be minimised. Encourage everyone to be mindful of their activities, such as avoiding loud music or conversations near your workspace during working hours.
Soundproofing strategies:
If you find that noise disturbances persist despite your best efforts, consider implementing soundproofing strategies. This could involve adding thick curtains, rugs, or acoustic panels to absorb sound and create a more peaceful atmosphere. Additionally, rearranging furniture to create distance between your workspace and noisy areas of the house can help minimise disruptions.
Utilise background noise:
Surprisingly, some individuals find that a certain level of background noise can actually enhance their focus. If complete silence feels too distracting, experiment with playing instrumental music, ambient sounds, or white noise in the background. These gentle sounds can mask external disturbances and create a soothing environment for enhanced productivity.
Technological Challenges
Working from home relies heavily on technology, and technical issues can be major disruptions to your workflow. Slow internet connectivity, software glitches, or hardware malfunctions can all hinder your productivity and cause frustration.
Tips to overcome technological challenges
Reliable internet connection:
Ensure you have a stable and high-speed internet connection. If possible, connect your device directly to the router through an Ethernet cable for a more stable connection.
Regular software updates:
Keep your operating system, applications, and security software up to date to minimise the risk of technical glitches.
Backup solutions:
Regularly back up your work files to prevent data loss in case of any unexpected technological failures.
Time Management and Boundaries
When your home becomes your office, it can be challenging to establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. This lack of separation may lead to constant interruptions and difficulties in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Tips for effective time management and boundaries
Establish a routine:
Set a consistent schedule and stick to it. Clearly define your working hours and communicate them with your colleagues and family members.
Create physical boundaries:
If possible, designate a separate room or area solely for work purposes. This physical separation can help signal the transition from personal to professional time.
Communicate expectations:
Clearly communicate your availability and boundaries to your household members, ensuring they understand when you need uninterrupted time for work.
In Conclusion
Working from home offers numerous advantages, but it also poses unique challenges in terms of disturbances that can disrupt productivity. By proactively addressing noise disturbances, mitigating technological challenges, and establishing clear boundaries, you can create a conducive environment for focused and efficient remote work. Remember, finding the right balance between work and personal life is crucial to maintain overall well-being while working from home.
In a sectional title scheme, where space is shared in close proximity, some level of noise is always anticipated. The best course of action is to see to it that the body corporate rules are changed to include practical solutions for dealing with persistent or extreme noise nuisance. Trustees will find it simpler to handle difficulties as they develop as a result.
Are you struggling with noise in your scheme? Then please contact us at info@tvdmconsultants.com or 061 536 3138 to see how we can assist you.
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About the Author
Brendon is the founder of Sensorpix Digital Content. He is an avid content creator with more than 20 years in the creative industry. Brendon enjoys telling stories through visual and written communications. Brendon has also been an inhabitant of sectional title schemes for more than 20 years and has developed a comprehensive knowledge of shared housing over this time. Brendon has completed his Bachelors in Communication Science through UNISA and is currently endeavouring to completed an Honours degree in Media Studies