Minimizing Noise Travel Between Rooms at Your B&B

Noisy guests — the bane of every innkeeper's existence. Whether the walls feel like they were made of paper, or some guests just don't have a volume control, noise complaints happen. However, there are ways to combat these auditory assaults to ensure your guests enjoy a serene stay. Transform your establishment into a haven of peace and quiet with these tips.

Guest Screening

In the hospitality industry, conducting thorough guest screenings is a critical step in ensuring the quality and safety of the stay for all parties. Nobody wants disruptive guests. Be upfront about what you’re expecting from them.

With a significant number of individuals entering your property, your liability risks are increased. Identify potential blind spots in your risk management and insurance programs with our Common Risk Exposures checklist.

A simple but insightful question to ask guests prior to their stay is, "What’s the purpose of your stay?" The answer will let you know the purpose of their visit, whether for business engagements, vacations or celebratory events that may increase the risk of disturbances, such as bachelor parties or birthday festivities. By understanding their plans, you can make informed decisions regarding the necessity of a security deposit or even assess the suitability of the guests for your establishment.

Add Furniture

Large, plush furnishings, such as beds and couches, are excellent at absorbing sound. Furthermore, incorporating rugs, curtains and blankets can significantly reduce noise levels. Strategically placing these items against walls enhances the room's aesthetics and serves as a barrier, mitigating sound transmission. This approach is a cost-effective way to create a quieter environment by optimizing the resources you have.

Install Insulation

If you decide to construct new rooms or renovate existing spaces, it’s crucial to consider not only the aesthetic but also the acoustics and energy efficiency of the property. One effective measure is to add soundproofing insulation in the walls and ceilings. Decoupling walls between rooms is a highly recommended technique that involves constructing a connection between adjacent walls or surfaces to obstruct the direct path of sound waves.

By filling cavities in walls and ceilings with insulation, you can reduce the amount of heat that escapes during winter and prevent excess heat from entering during summer. This thermal barrier can lead to significant savings on energy costs as it reduces the need for extensive heating or cooling.

Even though most uses of asbestos have been banned, it can still be found in a variety of products, such as building materials. For example, many properties built before the 1980s may contain asbestos in the insulation, paint and floor tiles. If you come across asbestos, do not touch it. Speak with an asbestos abatement professional before proceeding.

Padded Flooring

One of the most persistent issues hotel guests face is the disruption caused by banging or pounding sounds emanating from the above room. Padded flooring or the addition of carpeting or rugs can help reduce the noise level. Laminate flooring is also a great alternative.

Renovation & Vacancy Period

While renovations are taking place, don’t expect guests to stay at your inn. If there is major work involved, like replacing floors or anything that affects the structure itself, you need builders risk insurance. This standalone coverage requires you to inform your insurance company of the start and end dates of construction.

If there is no renovation but the property will sit vacant for a while, you’ll need vacant property coverage. This can later convert to innkeeper insurance coverage on the same policy.

Keep Your Business Peaceful With CBIZ Innkeepers Insurance

Implementing soundproofing solutions and regular maintenance checks to preempt noise disturbances can preserve guest comfort and sustain revenue streams. For additional safety guidance and insurance solutions for your business, connect with a member of our team.

This blog may contain scenarios that are provided as examples only. Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions and exclusions of the policy issued. The information provided is general in nature and may be affected by changes in law or the interpretation of such laws. The reader is advised to contact a professional prior to taking any action based upon this information.

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