So you found the apartment of your dreams in Canoga Park and you love it except you can hear noises.

Follow these guidelines to help diminish the amount of noise you hear.

• If the noise is from a neighbor’s TV, iPad, or Karaoke machine, they may not realize how loud it really is. There are several apps on the market (some free) which measure the decibel level in your home.  If the reading is high enough, you can bring it to your neighbor or your landlord as a cause of concern.
• Next determine the source of the noise; this will help you determine the best methods for soundproofing.
• If the noise is coming from outside, there are a few things you can do to help curb the noise from the curb. There are a number of ways to soundproof your windows.  Several manufacturers make noise blocking curtains, which can help diminish noise.  You can also purchase a thick piece of foam or sound blocking quilt and put it up at nighttime while you are trying to sleep.
• If the noise is coming from the wall, you have several options, you can move your furniture to another wall. You can also put a bookshelf on the noisy wall and even add a piece of felt or foam behind the bookshelf to block noise and vibrations.
• If the noise is coming from the hallway or outside your entry door, you can add a sound blocking door sweep. Be sure to check with your landlord before installing.