Household noise

Household Noise

Information and advice on household noise and sound insulation

All of us are sometimes bothered by noise - usually other people's noise. Noise can cause problems depending on how loud it is, how long it lasts, how often it occurs and what time of day it happens.

In many cases, 'everyday' noises are audible between neighbours' homes because the building's sound insulation is not up to today's standards. Noise from everyday activities include:

footsteps
dropping objects
light switches being turned on / off
general talking
doors closing
toilet flushing
babies crying
children playing
kitchen appliances - washing machines, blenders etc (during the daytime and early evenings).

In these cases, the Noise and Nuisance Team are unable to take action. Case Law states that noise from the ordinary use of residential premises cannot be considered a nuisance.

Mediation services for neighbours

The following link opens in a new window Mediation can be a solution to the problem. Council and Housing Association tenants may be able to access this service via their relevant Housing Office. Private tenants and owner-occupiers will have to pay for this service.

Legal requirements

New properties built before 1990, or properties converted before 1992 are not subject to the same standards as if they were built or converted today.

Case Law states that Landlords, Housing Associations, Council Housing Departments or Builders are not liable to upgrade sound insulation within properties built before 1990 or converted before 1992.

Properties built after 1990 or converted after 1992 should meet the current Building Regulations - Approved Document E. This is the minimum standard and does not mean properties will be completely sound proof. If this is the case you should take legal advice.