Dealing with Noisy Neighbours
Many of us have dealt with a noisy neighbour at some point, and due to the current lockdown circumstances, we are spending a lot more time around our neighbours. Some communities have come together and kept in touch with each other using group chats. However, for people in other communities, it can feel like being a prisoner in their own home as they have to endure weeks on end with noisy neighbours.
Before anything is escalated, sometimes it is worth bearing in mind that we are not all the same. One person might enjoy the quiet life at home and prefer to socialise outside of their home, but others might enjoy socialising at home, or they may be DIY enthusiasts, or they may have a small tribe of kids. The latter may be noisy neighbours, but they are neighbours without malicious intent.
Problems can arise when the noise becomes excessive and this can escalate further if ignored. Sleepless nights can add to the stress inflicted by the noise and even ruin the enjoyment of life in your own home.
However, you might be surprised to discover that many people who are considered ‘noisy’ and disruptive are often totally unaware of the effects they are having on others, and a simple polite conversation will often resolve the issue.
Speaking to your Neighbour First
No one should have to tolerate excessive noise pollution, but it is also not advisable to immediately call the police or the local Environmental Health Department, instead you should speak to your neighbour first, if possible.
This does not mean you should have to put up with their behaviour but talking to them first about the situation can often prevent a potential long-term noise problem. What is important is how you choose to speak to them and, quite often, the timing of when you do speak to them.
Choosing the Right Moment
Whether you are exhausted, angry, stressed, or frustrated, it is important to remember that when you speak to your neighbour, you must always stay calm and remain polite.
You can still be firm and get your point across whilst still being polite and friendly. Simply point out to your neighbours the impact of their behaviour on you and your family. Most people are reasonable enough to understand your point of view and prefer to keep things harmonious with their neighbours.
If, like for many people, your neighbours are strangers with whom you have not spoken before, then it is natural to feel apprehensive, but this is usually the best and simplest solution to prevent the situation from escalating.
However, another crucial issue is the timing of when you decide to speak with your neighbour.
A fitting example would be approaching your neighbour who is holding a house party. The best advice would be to leave it until the following day. Confronting them when the party is in full swing would possibly make matters worse.
The fact of the matter is that most excessive noise problems with neighbours can often be better resolved between neighbours themselves. However, no one has the right to make someone else’s life a misery through excessive noise, so do not feel guilty about contacting your local Environmental Health Department or even the police, if you strongly suspect that by confronting the issue directly yourself, you could be putting yourself at risk of harm in any way.
If you require the assistance of our Dispute Resolution Solicitors, whether it is because you have a problem with a neighbour playing loud music in the wake of the morning, or if a neighbour is being abusive or parking their car in your space, contact us today on 01494 77377 or hello@lennonssolicitors.co.uk
This article has been prepared in order to assist individuals on matters relating to neighbouring disputes. It does not constitute legal advice. It has been prepared in good faith, but neither Lennons Solicitors, nor any of the individuals responsible for or involved in its preparation accept any responsibility or liability for anything done in reliance of it.