Noise nuisance goes beyond just loud sounds. It's about noises that most people would find unreasonable, taking into account factors such as volume, timing, duration, and source. As the most common complaint received by Lancaster City Council Housing, it's an issue that affects many residents.
While many sounds are part of everyday life, some cross the line into nuisance territory. These often include loud music or TV, frequent shouting or arguments, and excessive dog barking. Other examples are noisy DIY activities at inappropriate times, revving vehicle engines, and prolonged musical instrument practice.
It's important to note that not all noises are considered a nuisance. Everyday household sounds like walking, talking, or closing doors are generally acceptable. The same goes for children playing, babies crying, or occasional DIY and gardening at reasonable hours.
If you're dealing with a noise issue, the first step is to assess the situation. Consider whether the noise is truly unreasonable, how often it occurs, and how it's affecting your daily life. It's often helpful to discuss the issue with others to get a balanced perspective.
The next step, if you feel comfortable, is to talk to your neighbour. Approach them calmly and explain how the noise is affecting you. Listen to their side of the story and try to find a compromise. Keep a record of these conversations for future reference.
If direct communication doesn't resolve the issue, or if you don't feel comfortable approaching your neighbour, Lancaster City Council Housing can help. We can write to your neighbour, suggest mediation, or advise you on collecting evidence of the nuisance.
In persistent cases, we may need to take more formal action. This could involve working with our Environmental Health department or considering legal action through the County Court.
If you need to report a noise nuisance, you can contact our Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) & Neighbourhoods Team. We offer multiple ways to get in touch, including by phone on 01524 582935, email, or through our online form.
If You Have Been Reported For Noise Nuisance Yourself:
Receiving a noise complaint doesn't necessarily mean you've done anything wrong. It's an opportunity to consider how your activities might be affecting others. We encourage you to have a conversation with your neighbour and explore ways to reduce noise where possible.
Remember, small changes in our daily habits can make a big difference to our neighbours' quality of life.
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