Noise from another home
Sometimes, noise problems can be resolved informally between neighbours, simply by politely explaining the problem and trying to come to a compromise. Similarly, mediation services may be suitable for parties to help reach such compromise, this informal approach may not always be successful, and some people may not be prepared to speak directly to the person(s) making the noise.
If you're thinking about doing something noisy, think about your neighbours e.g. having a party or doing some DIY work. Speak to them beforehand and agree reasonable hours - be sympathetic and co-operative if asked by a neighbour to reduce noise. Neighbours are generally more tolerant when they know how long an activity will last for and its gives them the opportunity to be away from their home.
Loud music and home entertainment
Loud music and home entertainment such as Sound System and TV can disturb your neighbours and surrounding people. To reduce noise you can:
- Keep the volume down on amplified sound systems especially the bass which can be more annoying than higher frequencies
- Close windows and doors
- Make sure speakers are away from party walls and floors, raise them up if you can onto noise absorbent stands or speaker isolators
- Keep the volume reasonable taking into account the time of day or if in doubt, use headphones
- Inform your neighbours that you will be making a noise and agree what days and times will cause them least disturbance, especially if you plan to make noise regularly, for example, by playing musical instrument.
Playing loud music at night (11pm - 7am) could result in confiscation of your equipment or instruments, and fine might be issued.
DIY and building work
Home maintenance is essential and home improvement works are rapidly growing. A lot of DIY or building work can be very noisy and disturb your neighbours.
Works completed on a party wall can be particularly intrusive noise due to how sound travels through structures. Consider the type of structure you have , what could be on the other side of the wall i.e., a bedroom and the likely impact.
Speak to your neighbours and try to agree a time for work when it will least disturb them. Avoid drilling and banging late at night or early in the morning.
Household chores and People Noise
Just living in your home and completing chores can create noise that can disturb your neighbours especially if you live in a flat. Such noises are normal and a degree of neighbourly 'give and take' is expected. To avoid causing an annoyance to neighbours, loud chores should be completed during the day, i.e. mowing the lawn, vacuuming, washing/spinning clothes.
The recent popularity of hard and laminated flooring has been the cause of an increasing number of complaints about noise. If you are considering hard flooring, you should carefully consider the potential impact on your neighbours - particularly if you live in a terraced house or flat.
Contact City and neighbourhood for further information.
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