The biggest challenge to anyone who loves to entertain in an apartment is noise. Even somewhat quiet get-togethers can escalate as soon as enough people have enough alcohol. Keeping the noise down may be a bit of trail and error but you can use the following tips to help stay ahead of noise complaints when you entertain.

Windows – open or closed

An open window in an apartment allows the noise to escape and dissipate, but that noise can then travel up or down and right into someone else’s open window. At the same time, a closed window keeps noise inside instead of floating outside, but it can increase the amount of noise that is bouncing off of the floor and the ceiling and bothering those that live above and below you. You may have to go through a party or two until you figure out which one of these methods works better for your particular apartment.

Watch the clock

No one wants to end their party at 10, but you do need to extend a common courtesy to those that live around you by not partying until 3 every weekend. Chances are you will have a visit from the landlord, the cops or both. Keep an eye on the clock and consider changing what you do once it gets late.

Quiet activities

Speaking of controlling what you do, you don’t have to end things when the clock shows a late hour, but you may need to turn down the music, put the television on or put in a DVD. Plan out some quieter activities you can take part in once it starts to get late, like board games, cards or simply just talking and laughing. As a last resort, the party can always be moved to a nightclub or bar where you can be as loud as you want.