We understand that noise can have a real impact on your wellbeing. It’s also important to understand what is and isn’t considered a nuisance.
Noise nuisance may include things like loud music, parties, frequent visitors, banging, alcohol-related disturbance, or ongoing animal noise such as barking dogs or cockerels.
At the same time, some everyday living noise is expected and wouldn’t usually be classed as anti-social behaviour, for example, a toilet flushing or a baby crying.
What’s the difference between statutory noise and general noise nuisance?
For noise to be classed as a statutory nuisance, it must meet at least one of these legal tests:
- It unreasonably and substantially interferes with the use or enjoyment of a home
- It injures health, or is likely to injure health
Keeping a record
Keeping a diary of what’s happening can really help. Make a note of what the noise is, how often it happens, and the impact it has on you and your household.
Please share this information regularly with your case officer so they can review it and agree next steps. If a case progresses, detailed records can provide important evidence.
You can keep your own notes or download a diary sheet from ASB Help.
Noise monitoring
We recommend using The Noise App to report instances of noise to us. The app allows you to securely record and send audio, video and images, which we can review and add to your case. You can find out more about the app below.
What else you can do
If you’re experiencing noise issues, you can:
- Try to have a calm and reasonable conversation with your neighbour, if you feel comfortable doing so
- Report the issue to us. If you’re worried about criminal activity, please contact the police
We strongly advise against retaliating, as situations can quickly escalate and become harder to resolve.
Noise complaints about dogs
We receive many reports about dogs barking. Barking is a natural way for dogs to communicate, but ongoing or excessive barking can be difficult for neighbours and may also be a sign the dog is distressed, bored or unwell.
If you hear a dog barking consistently, you could let your neighbour know how and when it’s affecting you. They may not be aware there’s an issue, especially if the barking happens when they are out.
If you don’t feel comfortable speaking face-to-face, you could write a friendly note instead. If needed, a neutral third party (such as another neighbour) may be able to help mediate.
If the barking continues, you can record and report it using the options above. It’s helpful to note:
- Dates and times of barking
- How long the barking lasts
- How it impacts you (for example, “heard in the living room, unable to hear the TV”)
Keep any messages or notes exchanged with your neighbour, as these may be useful if the issue needs to be taken further.
When other organisations may help
If you’re concerned that a dog may be neglected or mistreated, you can report this to the RSPCA.
Barking alone is not usually a police matter. However, if the situation involves threatening behaviour, harassment or criminal activity, you should contact the police.
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