Noise issues

Where noise is regular and loud, it may be considered a problem and we may be able to help you resolve it. There are no set noise levels that people must stick to; it is really a question of what is reasonable behaviour. Each case is different and we must consider facts carefully before we take action.

Types of noise we can investigate

We can look into noise that is unreasonable, persistent or clearly affects your quality of life or stops you sleeping. This includes:

• loud shouting, music, TV's or musical instruments
• household appliances used late at night
• animal noise such as barking dogs and cockerels crowing
• fireworks noise

If the noise regularly disrupts your sleep or daily life, it may be classed as a statutory nuisance. A statutory nuisance is noise that is so loud or persistent that it significantly affects how you live in your home or prevents you from sleeping. If this is happening regularly, you can report it.

Types of noise we cannot investigate

We’re unable to investigate:

• noise where you cannot identify which property it is coming from
• normal household noise, such as:
• footsteps
• doors closing
• children playing
• babies crying
• traffic or aircraft noise

These are normal household noises (sometimes call domestic noise) and cannot be treated as statutory nuisances.

Should I contact my neighbour first?

It is always a good idea to try to resolve the issue before involving us. Choose a good time to speak - when neither of you is feeling stressed or in a hurry. Keep the tone polite and non-accusatory, focus on how the noise makes you feel, rather than what they are doing wrong.

Often people are not aware their noise is travelling or disturbing others, and a polite chat can help set expectations, agree quieter times, or find simple adjustments without needing to involve us.

If you do not feel able to speak directly with your neighbour, you can download our 'Dear Neighbour' letter template and use that instead.

Reporting noise issues

If the noise is ongoing or happens regularly, you can report it using the link below.

To help us investigate, it would be useful if you have kept a note of:

• dates and times of the noise
• how long it lasts
• how the noise affects you
• recordings or other evidence

This information may be used as evidence if we take legal action.

Will the other person know I've reported them?

We may need to contact the person you believe is causing the noise. We will not share your details with them. However, you must provide your contact details when you report the issue. We cannot accept anonymous reports.

Other types of noise