The parking lot is one of the areas that promote interaction with your neighbor and sharing a parking lot can be a blessing when a strange neighbor gives you a jump-start. However, it can also be an inconvenience when an inconsiderate neighbor blocks you.
Bear in mind that parking in apartment complexes demands etiquette on everybody’s part. Here’s what avoid.
Avoid Noise
Most people enjoy some type of music-whether it’s rock, classical, or country. However, it doesn’t mean that your neighbors want to listen to your music when you pull into the parking lot. Do your neighbors a favor and turn down the music.
It’s also important to be keen when it comes to car alarms. Although they help keep cars safe, at times they simply go off. When this happens, it’s your responsibility to fix it.
Don’t Overspeed
Most parking lots lack a speed limit but this doesn’t imply that you can drive at whatever speed. Typically, 5 mph is the recommended speed in a parking lot.
Remember, some people have kids in the complex and not every child anticipates an overspeeding car in the parking lot. Therefore, slow down to avoid unnecessary incidents.
Don’t Use Any Open Space
Even if you are accessing your apartment briefly, don’t park in an area that is not designated for parking. This can block vehicles in and pose a serious safety hazard.
Don’t Park in the Wrong Line
When dealing with neighbors in the parking lot, the only actual interaction you have with them is noticing what they have or haven’t done. A neighbor that leaves his or her car taking up several parking spaces could ruin your day and relationship as neighbors.
While some people park like this briefly, parking across spaces repeatedly, parking too close to other vehicles, or taking somebody’s space is one way of being disliked in your community and potentially ending up with your car being ticketed or towed.
Don’t Ignore the Rules
Knowing the rules is the most significant aspect of parking etiquette. Typically, the property or housing manager will have information concerning your lot, the number of spaces you get, maintenance information or the extra parking spaces when you have visitors or when the parking lot may be full. Abiding by the stipulated rules will promote neighborliness.
Don’t use the Parking Lot for other Purposes
Turning the parking lot into a personal junkyard or for garbage not only influences the building’s perception when managers are showing it to prospective tenants but also leaves a bad impression with the neighbors.
Although you might not think your behavior is inappropriate, it’s important to remember that many people view the apartment complex as their home and don’t appreciate anybody messing it.
Don’t Park Crookedly
Never park so crookedly that you inhibit others from parking in another spot. Although it may be difficult to establish the extent of crookedness until after you get out, it does not mean you are good to go.
It will only take you a minute to get back in the car and straighten it up. This is especially important when it comes to compact car spots.
Final Thoughts
Exhibiting etiquette when it comes to apartment parking is one way of being neighborly. The lot leads to everybody’s home and everyone deserves to have a nice, quiet, and clean place where he or she can feel good about leaving his or her car.
Bear in mind that people will also notice a car that’s always parked right on the line or crookedly. However, they’ll also appreciate those that are considerate, so follow these tips.
For more information on apartment car parking etiquette, contact us at Apartment Agents or leave suggestions.