Council proposes a clampdown on things that go bump in the night
Published 13 January 2010
Noisy neighbours can be a real nuisance, and the council is currently asking residents how the council can help.
Noisy neighbours can be a real nuisance, and one London borough is currently asking residents how the council can help.
A proposal for changes to Southwark Council's tenancy agreement includes a clause for consideration which specifically asks tenants not to install flooring which could be noisy to neighbours living below. Laminate flooring, if installed in flats not on the ground floor, can create noise nuisance to those living below when people walk on them.
Councillor Kim Humphreys, executive member for housing, said: "Noise nuisance is a very real problem, especially for people who live in blocks of flats. If this clause is agreed, it could make life a little bit more pleasant for those living below a particularly 'heavy footed' tenant above. And obviously we can't ask tenants to wear slippers in the tenancy agreement."
Although the extra clause in the proposed agreement will not prevent people putting down the flooring within reason, that reason to deny permission could be that the block has historically caused noise nuisance problems. If the clause were agreed, the council could also ask for people to install proper sound insulation under floors.
The consultation closes January 18.
