Condo Noise: What to Do and Who Is Responsible

Noise disturbances in divided co-ownership affect both co-owners and the board of directors (board). The line between the normal life of a building and unreasonable excesses can sometimes be thin. Knowing what to do, documenting the facts and understanding who must act can make all the difference. (Information current as of 2026-05-05.)

In Quebec, the declaration of co-ownership (DCV) and the by-laws of the immovable govern the use of private portions and common portions. The Civil Code of Quebec also sets out the obligation not to impose abnormal inconveniences on neighbours. This guide explains, step by step, how to respond to noise and which remedies to consider, whether you are a co-owner, tenant or board member.

Recognizing “unreasonable” noise in a condo

Not every noise is blameworthy. Everyday life produces normal sounds (footsteps, showers, chairs, children). What becomes problematic is an “abnormal inconvenience,” assessed according to the reasonable tolerance of a neighbour placed in the same circumstances (general reference to article 976 of the Civil Code of Quebec, LégisQuébec).

To assess the situation, consider in particular:

• Frequency and duration (one-time, recurring, at night)
• Intensity (volume, vibration, low frequency)
• Timing (at night, early in the morning, evening)
• Source (private portion, common portions, mechanical equipment)
• Context (announced work, emergency, compliance with permitted hours)

A brief renovation noise in the afternoon may be acceptable. Repeated disturbance after 11 p.m., bass that makes the floor vibrate or a dog that barks continuously often crosses the threshold of reasonableness, especially if the by-laws of the immovable already regulate these behaviours.

Who is responsible for the noise and damage?

Responsibility depends on the source and the status of the person at fault. In divided co-ownership, the basic principle is that every occupant must comply with the declaration of co-ownership and the by-laws of the immovable, and must not cause abnormal inconveniences to neighbours (Civil Code of Quebec, articles 1063 and 976, LégisQuébec).

• Occupant of a private portion (co-owner or tenant): they must comply with the rules. The co-owner-landlord remains responsible for their tenant’s breaches; they must put an end to the situation, if necessary by notice or termination, according to the applicable civil remedies.
• Visitors and private contractors of a co-owner: the hosting co-owner is generally responsible for the acts of people they allow into their home, according to the obligations set out in the declaration of co-ownership.
• Building equipment (ventilation, water column, elevator): if the disturbance comes from a component of the common portions, the syndicate (board) must investigate and correct it, since it is responsible for the preservation and maintenance of the building (article 1039 of the Civil Code of Quebec, LégisQuébec).
• Noisy renovation work: it is permitted if it complies with the declaration of co-ownership, the hours set out in the by-laws and construction standards. Make sure to hire contractors duly licensed by the Regie du batiment du Quebec (RBQ); verify their licence here: RBQ – Find a Contractor.

In the event of damage (for example, detached drywall caused by vibrations), a claim may target the person at fault or, if it involves a failure of the common portions, the syndicate. Proceedings before the Small Claims Division or the civil courts remain possible depending on the amount and nature of the damage. Obtain legal advice as needed.

Practical process: condo noise, what to do step by step

1) Document and measure

• Keep a noise log: date, time, duration, type of noise and impact.
• Record short audio/video excerpts if it is safe and lawful.
• Note any witnesses (other neighbours) and keep proof of your communications.

2) Communicate politely

• Send a courteous message to the offending neighbour, ideally in writing. Describe the impact and suggest solutions (carpets, schedules, bass adjustment). Remain factual and respectful.

3) Check the declaration of co-ownership and the by-laws of the immovable

• Confirm the clauses concerning noise, work hours, musical instruments and animals.
• If no clear rule exists, the board may consider an amendment to the by-laws of the immovable, to be adopted according to the procedure set out in the declaration of co-ownership and recorded in the minutes of the annual general meeting.

4) Formal notice to the syndicate (board)

• If the situation continues, submit a written complaint to the board. Attach your log, evidence and any previous exchanges. Request intervention under the declaration of co-ownership.
• The board should open a file, remind the person at fault of the rules and, if necessary, issue a notice of non-compliance or a formal notice.

5) Corrective measures and remedies

• The board may impose reasonable measures: requiring carpets, adjusting equipment, setting time periods for instruments or imposing fines provided for in the by-laws (if valid and proportionate).
• If the source is technical (for example, structural noise, plumbing or ventilation), the syndicate will retain a professional for diagnosis and corrective work. This intervention falls under operations management and maintenance.
• As a last resort, consider mediation or legal proceedings. The RGCQ publishes useful resources for syndicates and co-owners.

To structure its actions and communications, your board can rely on administrative and operations management services. See our relevant service areas: Administrative Management and Operations Management.

Tools the syndicate and board can use to regulate noise

• By-laws of the immovable and declaration of co-ownership: specify permitted hours for work, minimum soundproofing requirements for renovations (for example, underlay for floating floors) and rules for using musical instruments. The by-laws must comply with the Civil Code of Quebec and be reasonable.
• Notices, fines and administrative fees: some declarations of co-ownership authorize graduated fines for breaches of the rules. They must be clearly provided for, proportionate and applied consistently. Avoid arbitrary penalties. Keep a register and attach reminders to the board’s minutes.
• Clear complaint process: form, acknowledgement of receipt, investigation, timelines and written follow-up. A protocol circulated to co-owners reduces tensions.
• Evidence and confidentiality: protect personal information in accordance with best practices and applicable legislation, and limit distribution to people who need to know.
• Proactive communication: seasonal reminders, notices of work periods and neighbourly etiquette. A collaborative tone prevents escalation.

For an update or overhaul of their by-laws of the immovable, many syndicates draw on the guides from the RGCQ and consult the relevant articles of the Civil Code of Quebec (for example, articles 1039, 1063 and 976). Everything must be adopted according to the rules in your declaration of co-ownership and approved at the annual general meeting.

Preventing disturbances: design, maintenance and best practices

• Soundproofing and materials: during floor renovations, require compliant acoustic underlay and installation by a licensed contractor (RBQ). For ceilings and partitions, a professional can recommend corrective work (double drywall, resilient channels and acoustic sealant).
• Mechanical equipment: roof fans, pumps, drain columns and elevators must be maintained. Integrate these checks into your maintenance logbook / EUC and plan replacements through the contingency fund. Anti-vibration pads or rebalancing can considerably reduce noise.
• Simple house rules: carpets in circulation areas, bass adjustment on audio systems, time periods for musical practice and animal management (barking). An annual reminder reduces complaints.
• Integration into management: if necessary, have your building audited and update the noise/soundproofing sections of the declaration of co-ownership and the by-laws. Draft clear procedures and train the board on handling complaints. Also see our services – administrative management page to structure these processes.

When a condo is sold, brokers must comply with their information obligations. Known and persistent disturbances may need to be disclosed. See the general principles concerning information to the public through the OACIQ.

FAQ – Noise and divided co-ownership in Quebec

Q1. A neighbour walks heavily in the evening: is this an abnormal disturbance?
– Not necessarily. It depends on the time, frequency and insulation. If the noise is recurring, late and excessive, document it, communicate courteously and then notify the board according to the procedure.

Q2. Can the board impose fines for noise?
– Yes, if the declaration of co-ownership or the by-laws of the immovable clearly provide for them and their application is reasonable and proportionate. Fines must follow a fair process and be recorded in the file.

Q3. Bass makes my ceiling vibrate: what should I do?
– First request an adjustment and the addition of carpets. If the problem continues and exceeds normal tolerance, notify the board with evidence. A diagnosis may reveal insufficient soundproofing; technical corrective measures may then be required.

Q4. Noise comes from the common portions (ventilation): who pays?
– The syndicate must have it corrected because it administers the common portions. The expense follows the budgetary rules and, depending on its scope, may come from the operating budget or the contingency fund following a professional recommendation.

This article provides general information and does not constitute legal advice. For your situation, consult a lawyer or notary.

Do you manage a divided co-ownership in Quebec? Discover our packages or contact us to assess your needs.