Being a Good Neighbour
What can be done about noise in flats or adjoining houses?
Neighbours are expected to be tolerant and to show each other respect. Flats cannot be completely soundproof and noise can be heard easily between floors and walls. However, many tenants do not realise how much noise is heard elsewhere in the building.
What to Do
Talk to your neighbour. When people live close together, they often do not realise they are disturbing others. You need to explain to them politely that they are causing a problem.
If the problem persists, contact your Housing Officer. We will need evidence of the problem so you need to keep a diary of events. We will treat all information as confidential.
If the problem is about noise, for example a party, contact the District Council's Noise Service. They can take emergency action in serious cases.
Use our Conflict resolution service, (mediation). Many neighbour problems can be sorted out by talking.
Being a good Neighbour
• Control the volume of sound from radios, stereos and TVs, at all times of the day. Do not put these systems against shared walls. Place them on a rubber mat or carpet.
• Make sure you do housework or DIY at reasonable times of the day.
• Keep noise, in or near your home, right down from 9 pm to 8 am.
• If you have a dog, do not leave it barking constantly in the home, on a balcony, or out in the garden, and clear up any mess it makes.
• Warn neighbours when you are going to do something particularly noisy: drilling, hammering or having a party.
• Make sure your children think about how their playing habits might affect neighbours.
• Be quiet when you return home late at night. Don't slam car doors, hoot car horns, or shout to your friends.
