Mind your high-rise manners, please
Condo living comes with a long list of perks, but it also calls for proper etiquette.
For many, location is one of the biggest advantages of living in a condo. Most high-rises, particularly those in the metro, are located in prime areas, placing you near your favorite café, trusted produce suki, your dog’s vet and groomer, and even the office. They also provide easy access to major roads and public transportation.
The convenience continues at home. Many residential high-rises now feature fully equipped gyms, swimming pools, walking and running paths, meditation gardens, and function rooms that residents can use for free.
With these urban comforts close at hand, condo dwellers are spoiled for choice. However, shared living also comes with shared responsibilities. Like any community, a condominium has basic rules that residents must observe to maintain a peaceful and conflict-free environment.
Limit the noise
It is best to keep noise levels down at home since you live close to your neighbors. Use headphones when listening to your favorite K-pop idols or binge-watching Netflix shows late at night.
Keep your voice down in elevators and corridors. You may also use rugs or carpets on hardwood floors to muffle footsteps, especially the click-clacking of heels.
Responsibility over shared spaces
From fully equipped gyms and swimming pools to pocket gardens and lounges, condo residents enjoy convenient access to amenities that many others do not. With this privilege comes the responsibility to use these shared spaces properly.
Fitness machines and equipment, for instance, should be wiped down after use. After swimming, dry off before walking through hallways or entering elevators. Function rooms may be ideal for family reunions, but residents must first secure management approval and comply with guest policies, noise restrictions and other rules.
Be a mindful neighbor
Running into neighbors, condo security and staff is inevitable when living in a residential high-rise, so a bit of courtesy and graciousness won’t hurt.
Treat condo staff and guards with kindness and respect. Say hello or nod when you pass by neighbors in common areas. Hold the doors for a fellow resident who’s obviously struggling with grocery bags, for instance. Simple acts of kindness can go a long way, especially in a community where people live close to each other.
For sure, you would rather be known as that pleasant neighbor than the annoying resident everyone complains about to property management.
Observe community rules
Every neighborhood has its set of rules that residents must adhere to.
Households cannot leave their trash just anywhere. Garbage needs to be segregated into biodegradable and wet, recyclable and non-recyclable. Pet owners need to clean up after their furbabies. These rules are no different even if you’re living in a single-detached house in a village.
Etiquette is important for condo dwellers, especially with our shared walls, floors and facilities. Respecting the rules and having proper manners can help prevent disagreements in the community, ensure everybody’s comfort and safety, and even maintain property value.
