Renter maybe able to save tenancy by replacing noisy roommate

is making too much noise. What can I do?

A: First, you should review the details in the N5 Notice to Terminate. Is it only noise from Jeff playing music, or are there additional complaints? Then, discuss the situation with Jeff. Jeff needs to realize that he cannot continue to live with you in the apartment while making noise that bothers your neighbours (and you). If he will wear headphones to listen to his music, that might solve the music problem.

If there are other problems, are there practical solutions to them too? Sometimes a tenant needs to buy or bring in an area rug or a “runner” to dampen noise from walking around an apartment or dropping shoes or boots onto the floor. Of course, the only solution to complaints about yelling and shouting is not to yell and shout.

If the plan is to improve the situation, speak with your landlord or property manager. Tell your landlord what you plan to do, such as getting the headphones or the area rug. Do not expect much in praise for doing what tenants should do in the first place.

If Jeff does not think he can keep the noise down and is willing to leave, the practical solution is for him to move and for you to find a new person with whom to share the unit. Again, tell your landlord your proposed plan to solve the problem. The landlord does not need to agree to let Jeff out of the lease or to replace Jeff with someone else. But if Jeff is the one causing problems in the building, there is a good chance the landlord will agree.

To look for a new roommate, you can ask around among your classmates, run an ad with Postmedia (which includes an online presence) and ask around among your friends and family.

At this time of year, numerous other roommates are finding they are incompatible for various reasons, and that they need to make changes. While following COVID-19 precautions, meet the prospects. Explain the landlord’s expectations about noise in the building. Check if their standards of housekeeping match yours. To good prospects, sell the advantages of the building, like how close it is to uOttawa, or the rent, or whatever is good about the building.

Tenants should be very careful about choosing their roommates. Unless your agreement indicates otherwise, you and your roommate are jointly responsible for the legal obligations under the lease, including not making excessive noise. Poor behaviour by your roommate not only puts your tenancy at risk, but also potentially affects your references when you look for your next rental unit.