Neighbour Noise
We all make noise, what is important is that
we take account of the effect it has on others and are mindful of
what we can do to reduce annoyance. We must avoid noise
becoming a 'statutory nuisance', which will affect people in their
homes and could result in legal action against the person causing
the problem under the Environmental Protection Act 1990; Sect
79.
If you are concerned about noise coming from a neighbour's home,
a local business or factory, or noise from stationary vehicles or
equipment in the street, often the best way to deal with the
problem is to go and talk to the person or company responsible for
the noise and point out the problem. You may find they are unaware
that they are disturbing you.
Noise problems are not always the result of inconsiderate
behaviour. Some homes have poor sound insulation and may not
prevent even ordinary day-to-day 'living' noises being heard next
door.
There is no set level at which noise becomes a statutory
nuisance. In deciding whether or not a noise is a statutory
nuisance the Environmental Health Officer will consider what would
be the likely reaction of an average, reasonable person to the
noise taking into account a number of factors including, the
locality, the time of day or night, the loudness, and the frequency
and duration of the noise complained of.
If the noise only occurs from time to time, it will be useful to
keep details of the noise in the form of a diary; then contact
Public Protection.
Neighbour noise can be very intrusive and affect every area of
your life. You do not have to put up with it. Below are three steps
you can take to try and resolve the situation.
- Approach your Neighbour as your neighbour may be unaware that
their actions are causing problems.
- Mediation between the parties involved using
a recognised mediation organisation.
- Formal Action to abate the noise.
If you wish to make a complaint about
neighbour noise to the Council please telephone or e-mail the
Council and a customer service representative will direct your
complaint to an officer in the area you live.
The Council will not respond to anonymous complaints for two
reasons; firstly any action the Council takes will need evidence
from the person(s) and property being affected and secondly, this
allows malicious complaints to be made about other members of the
public.
