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Noise nuisance

We understand that noise can disrupt your home and neighbourhood. Some noise is a normal part of everyday life, but excessive or persistent noise or noisy neighbours can have a serious impact on you and the people around you.

What noise nuisance is

Noise nuisance usually involves noise that happens regularly and has a significant impact on others.

Examples can include:

Loud music or TV
Regular banging or shouting
Loud parties or gatherings
Persistent noise from pets
DIY or construction during quiet hours

What is not usually noise nuisance

Some noise is part of everyday living, especially if you live close to other people or in a block of flats.

We would not usually take action on things like:

A one-off party
Babies crying
Children playing
Occasional noise from pets
Temporary DIY or building work

Quiet hours

Noise can be more disruptive at night. Quiet hours are:

11pm to 7am, Monday to Saturday
Before 9am and after 10pm on Sundays

During these times, please try to keep noise to a minimum so your neighbours are not disturbed. This means avoiding loud music, parties, shouting or DIY.

We will investigate excessive or persistent noise during these hours and take action where necessary.

Neighbour disputes

Sometimes noise issues are caused by everyday differences in lifestyle rather than antisocial behaviour.

If you feel safe and comfortable to do so, the first step is to speak to your neighbour calmly about the issue. They may not realise their noise is affecting you.

If the problem continues, you can contact us and we can look at ways to help resolve the issue. Mediation may also be an option.

How to report noise nuisance

Several organisations may be involved in dealing with noise issues, including the police, your local council and us.

You can report noise nuisance to us:

Online using our reporting tool. Sign in or sign up and go to My neighbourhood.
By phone on 0300 555 6666
In person at one of our offices.

If you believe the noise may be linked to domestic abuse or violence, for example shouting, screaming or banging, contact the police immediately by calling 999.

Your local council also has a duty to investigate noise that could be harmful to health. You can report these issues to your council’s environmental health team.