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Noise

Many noise problems, particularly those involving neighbours, can be resolved informally, for example, by explaining to your neighbours the difficulties they are causing. Approach your neighbour and explain politely that you are being troubled by noise.

However, not all noise problems necessarily come from neighbours and Local authorities (Local Councils in Northern Ireland) have extensive powers to deal with noise nuisances. You can ask the Environmental Health Officer (EHO) to investigate the noise. They are able to measure the level of noise and to give an expert opinion on how it rates as a noise nuisance. Local authorities have powers to seize noise-making equipment.

Complaints can be made to the Local Authority in person, by letter, telephone or by e-mail. Your complaint should include:-

• Your name and address and (where possible) a daytime phone number
  
  
• The address (or site) where the noise is coming from and the type of noise (e.g. barking dogs, loud music)
  
  
• When and for how long the noise occurs (it will help if you have made a written record of the times and dates when the problem has occurred)
  
  
• The way the noise affects you (e.g. stops you from sleeping)
  
  
• Anything you have done to try and deal with the problem (e.g. speaking to the person making the noise).