Noisy neighbours – don’t suffer in silence

 We have to accept that a certain level of noise from our neighbours is inevitable – children playing in the garden or background noise from a TV is quite normal.
 
 If this type of everyday noise bothers you then having a radio or music on at a low volume in your own home will usually cancel it out very effectively. But what are the options neighbours over step the mark and the noise they make becomes a nuisance.
 
 First of all it’s best to discuss your concerns with the neighbour and explain how their actions are effecting you. Having a quiet and polite word early on will often achieve the best outcome. However, if a compromise can’t be reached your next option is to contact your local council.
 
 Most councils now employ officers who deal solely with noise problems, they will advise you how best to deal with the matter. They may wish to monitor the noise themselves or ask you to keep a record of when it occurs. Ultimately they have the power to issue an abatement notice on a neighbour when they consider the noise to be a statutory nuisance.

We all have a right to the quiet enjoyment of our homes. So be considerate and don’t become part of the problem yourself (more advice about neighbour noise) but don’t suffer in silence.

18th May 2007

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