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Tandem Parking 101: What Is It + How to Manage

August 22, 2023
Moving to an apartment with tandem parking? Learn all about managing shared parking spaces in this overview, including 7 renter tips for 2023!

Urban living and popular neighborhoods come with plenty of perks and amenities. However, there are certain nuances when it comes to apartment parking policies.

Finding different kinds of parking usually comes at a premium. If you're moving in with a roommate or significant other, you might need two spots in an area where parking is scarce. Instead of traditional non-tandem parking options, consider an apartment or townhouse with tandem parking. But first, you should understand what is meant by tandem parking.

Tandem Parking Guide

What Is Tandem Parking?

Tandem Parking Definition

Tandem parking is a narrow, oversized spot that can fit several cars in a single-file line. This option offers multiple share parking spaces in the same garage or lot, but with a twist.

The single line can make sharing parking less than ideal. That’s because the ones behind it usually block the first cars.

However, tandem spots can also work seamlessly if you and your roommate have different schedules or if someone relies on public transportation instead of a car. Especially in cities like Seattle, where up to 30% of the new builds don’t include parking.

How Does Tandem Parking Work?

There are usually just two parking spots in a townhouse with a tandem garage. However, on rare occasions, an apartment complex may offer tandem parking holding multiple vehicles. This can make parking tricky when you're coordinating with several schedules.

On the other hand, tandem parking saves space while offering options for more than one car, especially in narrow buildings. You'll find these kinds of parking spots in apartments across various housing developments, from apartment complexes to townhouse communities to quadplexes.

Pros and Cons of Tandem Parking

Tandem Parking: Pros and Cons

Much like many apartment amenities, tandem parking has its own pros and cons. Here’s a look at some of the most common points of view.

Pros of Tandem Parking

  • Convenience: If you have multiple vehicles between roommates or family members, tandem parking can ensure that you always have a spot available for both cars.
  • Budget-friendly: Tandem parking maximizes space, potentially reducing property development costs which can be reflected in lower rents for renters.
  • Designated Parking: Tandem parking spots ensure designated spaces for multiple vehicles of the same unit, eliminating the need to search for additional parking.

Cons of Tandem Parking

  • Sharing: With tandem parking requires coordination and understanding between the two renters sharing the spot. If one person parks improperly or in a manner that inconveniences the other, it can lead to disputes or challenges.
  • Difficult neighbor: If you're paired with a neighbor or roommate who is uncooperative or unwilling to communicate effectively, it can make a tandem parking arrangement difficult.
  • Availability: Even if you have an agreement in place, there's always a chance that a neighbor or roommate might accidentally, or even carelessly, take up both spots, especially if they have guests over or are in a rush.

How to Manage Tandem Parking

How to Deal with Tandem Parking

Tandem parking requires some creativity and resourcefulness to make it work. Here are some tips to help manage the process.

Create a Rotating Schedule

Navigating a tandem parking spot can be a bit like a dance, especially when street parking's still an option. Here's a simple solution: chat with your neighbor and set up a rotation. One month, you take the lead and snag both tandem spots; the next month, it's their turn. It’s a straightforward approach, ensuring each of you gets a fair shot without the daily back-and-forth.

By sticking to a month-to-month rotation, you’re keeping things predictable and hassle-free. Imagine not having to play the guessing game or sending those awkward "Hey, can you move your car?" texts. Plus, for an entire month, you can enjoy the luxury of both spots – perfect for when you're having guests over or just want a break from the parking shuffle. Simple strategies like this make apartment living just a bit smoother.

Understand Each Other's Schedule

Tandem parking can be a bit of a dance, especially when it involves aligning with your roommate's or neighbor's schedules. The trick to sidestep any missteps? Go digital. A shared online calendar can quickly become your best ally. Drop in your intended in-and-out times, and voilà – both of you have a clear view of when the driveway shuffle is due.

And here's a practical tweak: if one of you mostly works from home or hops on public transport, it's smart to park their car in a way that doesn't block the more frequently used vehicle. No more early morning scrambles or last-minute car moves. A bit of prep makes all the difference in smoothing out the tandem parking routine.

Communicate Regularly

Clear communication is the magic ingredient for a smooth tandem parking setup. Whether there's an unexpected emergency or a shift in plans, it's smart to drop a text or make a quick call. It keeps both of you in the loop and prevents any parking surprises.

But here's a golden rule: give each other ample time to adjust. No one likes being rushed, especially during those early morning or late-night hours. A heads-up in advance ensures no last-minute dashes and keeps the parking harmony going strong.

Take Turns Parking on the Street

Sometimes tandem parking spaces can be more trouble than they’re worth, depending on your schedule and setup. If street parking is available, consider trading off a week-to-week and let the other use the garage.

A roommate without a car can also offer up the tandem garage in exchange for using the space for storage.

Make Spare Keys

When you're in sync with your parking pals, taking the relationship up a notch might just make sense. How about swapping keys? This way, if there's a tight spot or a car needs shifting, you've got each other's backs.

But hey, trust comes with boundaries. It's a good idea to set some ground rules. Maybe the keys are only for those can't-reach-you emergencies or when someone's away and off the grid. By laying down the guidelines, you ensure both respect and convenience live side by side in your parking arrangement.

Pay to Claim the Spot Yourself

Feeling like having that whole tandem spot to yourself? Why not have a chat with your roommate or neighbor and see if they're open to a little negotiation? You could offer to chip in a bit more on rent each month in exchange for full reign of that spot during your lease.

But remember, communication is king. Before taking the plunge, it's crucial to ensure both sides are on board and in agreement. A clear conversation upfront can pave the way for a win-win parking setup.

Talk to Your Landlord

Tapping into additional parking solutions can be as simple as having a chat with your landlord. It’s possible they have other paid parking stalls available or can clue you in on upcoming availabilities. Even if all the spots are taken right now, many landlords keep a handy waitlist for eager renters.

While you might not get an immediate spot, it ensures you’re in the loop for future opportunities. So, the next time a spot opens up, instead of a mad scramble, you could be sliding right in, thanks to a little forward-thinking and communication.

Alternatives to Tandem Parking

What happens if you don't need tandem parking or find it too much hassle to manage? There are a few alternatives to consider.

Consider Private and City-Owned Parking Garages

If you live in a metropolitan area that is susceptible to limited parking, you are likely able to find private or city-owned garages nearby. Do your homework and find out the monthly rates for these parking garages to see if it’s within your budget.

Pay to Claim the Spot for Yourself

Are you looking at renting a townhouse with a tandem two-car garage? A roommate may be open to the idea of permanent street parking or leaving their car at a friend's if you make it worth their while.

You could offer to pay a small monthly fee for using tandem parking all for yourself.

Ask for a Rent Reduction

In some areas, apartments and townhouses with tandem parking are more expensive. Other areas with ample street parking and inexpensive lots could make tandem parking undesirable. In this situation, you could ask for a rent reduction to make up for the hassle of managing the parking logistics.

Use Tandem Parking for Extra Storage

Like townhouses, some rentals may have a tandem garage even if you're the only one living there. Or, you might find that a roommate doesn't need the spot and is fine if you take it over for yourself. If you have extra space in your garage, consider using it as storage for your bike, sporting equipment, and seasonal items.

Final Thoughts

Tandem parking isn't always perfect. However, it’s still desirable in urban areas with limited parking options.

Keep an open mind and stay flexible to make tandem parking work for you. Ready to find an apartment with better parking options? Just start our personalized quiz to begin apartment hunting today. With Apartment List, you'll spend 5 minutes and save 50 hours searching.

Tandem Parking FAQs

How Common is Tandem Parking?

Tandem parking is pretty common in busy cities where parking is a rare commodity. But you won’t often find this parking style in smaller cities.

Is Tandem Parking a Good Idea?

Sharing tandem spaces with neighbors you don't know well, or several roommates you rarely see can feel difficult. It's essential to come up with a plan to make tandem parking spaces work for everyone involved.

Why Does Tandem Parking Exist?

Tandem parking is ideal for apartment complexes with limited parking space availability, allowing them to save space for additional renters.

How Deep Is a Tandem Garage?

There are two standard sizes for a tandem space: 12 feet wide x 36 feet deep or 20 feet wide x 30 feet deep.

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Tristian Brown
SENIOR CONTENT ASSOCIATE
Tristian Brown is a Senior Content Marketing Associate at Apartment List, where he manages high-quality content that helps modern renters find the perfect home. He brings an immense wealth of knowledge to the team, having earned a Bachelor of Arts in Marketing and European Management from the University of San Diego and EM Strasbourg Business School. Read More
Emily Kho
EMILY KHO
Emily is a professionally trained writer who covers a wide range of topics associated with the rental market and real estate industry. With over a decade of professional writing experience, Emily comes from a strong background in the field backed with a Bachelor of Science from the world-renowned William F. Read More

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