Domestic noise
Everyday household activities create noise, and some sounds are unavoidable.
We don’t consider the following as noise problems:
- everyday living noise such as doors closing, footsteps
- domestic appliances like washing machines or vacuum cleaners or gardening equipment
- talking, babies crying, children playing
- occasional residential parties
- people arguing or shouting in the street, traffic noise, car horns, vehicles left running
These are considered part of normal behaviour or lifestyle and are not enforceable under noise nuisance legislation.
If these noises disturb you, it may be due to poor sound insulation between properties.
We may investigate if the noise is unreasonable or persistent, such as:
- loud music or televisions
- loud parties that happen regularly
- continuous and excessive shouting
If you believe the noise may be linked to domestic abuse or harassment:
- call the police on 999 if you fear for someone’s safety
- call 101 if you believe it may be harassment or if you feel unsafe but are not in immediate danger
Alarm noise
Security alarms can cause a nuisance if they sound for long periods while the owner is away or occur regularly.
If a neighbour’s alarm is sounding:
- try contacting them directly by phone, text or social media
- ask other neighbours if they can help reach the owner
If this doesn’t work contact us during office hours. We may:
- investigate and take action to silence the alarm
- issue a noise abatement notice and obtain a warrant to enter the property
Costs for silencing the alarm will be passed to the owner or occupier.
DIY noise
DIY or home improvement works is expected but must be done considerately:
- speak to your neighbour before starting noisy work
- invite them to knock on the door to let you know if the noise is causing them a problem
- avoid early mornings and late evenings
- discuss and take into account neighbours with children or other special requirements
Avoid carrying out noisy work at unreasonable hours or long-term projects.
Animal noise
Noise from animals, can disturb neighbours. Dogs, by nature, make noise. Before contacting us about a noisy animal, talk to your neighbour first.
Owners are responsible for making sure their animals don’t cause a nuisance.
Visit the Dog Trust website for advice on how to stop your dog barking.
Nuisance examples if persistent or unreasonable:
- barking dogs - we can work with the owner to reduce the noise but we will not remove the dog
- cockerels - multiple birds may increase noise
- animals in large numbers
Some animals, like seagulls, wild birds and wild animals, cannot be reported as noise nuisances.
Bird scarers can be disruptive, especially in rural areas. Speak to the landowner first if you're affected.
Visit the NFU website for the bird scarers code of conduct.
Commercial and industrial noise
Businesses often generate noise through their operations. Most companies aim to be considerate neighbours, but sometimes noise levels can become unacceptable.
If you're disturbed by commercial noise:
- contact the company directly
- try to reach a compromise
- allow time for repairs if equipment is faulty
Noise is only considered a nuisance if the company isn’t following good practice.
Common sources of commercial noise include:
- extractor fans
- deliveries and collections
- machinery and alarms
Pubs, clubs and licensed premises
You must be prepared to experience some inconvenience when living near licensed premises.
Noise can become unacceptable if it is uncontrolled or excessive.
Premises licence holders may have noise-related conditions they must follow. Our licensing team makes sure these conditions are met.
When a new pub or club opens or is undergoing refurbishment, we:
- try to anticipate potential noise problems
- may visit existing premises to assess complaints and suggest solutions
- advise owners or managers on how to reduce noise