Living in the UK

Anti-social Behaviour 

Anti-social behaviour covers a wide range of behaviour, such as damaging the environment, low-level disputes and clashes of lifestyle, or causing serious nuisance to others and even threats of violence and criminal activity. If you are worried about anti-social behaviour, you should make a report to the police. 

Domestic Noise Laws 

Residents have the right to enjoy life in their own way in their own home, but they should not break the law or interfere with the rights of others. 

Here is some advice about noise: 

• For music and other entertainment, keep the volume down –whether it’s TV, car stereo or conversation – especially at night/early morning.

• If you are having a party, consider inviting the neighbours.    Keep windows and doors closed, and if someone complains, turn it down.

• Use noisy domestic appliances at sensible times – during normal waking hours. Hoovering in the early hours could disturb your neighbours. 

• Do noisy jobs and operate noisy equipment when it will cause least disturbance to your neighbours. Avoid working when they are trying to sleep or enjoying a quiet night in.

• If you are doing something really noisy, e.g. floor sanding, drilling in party walls, let your neighbours know beforehand and they are far less likely to complain.

• Avoid slamming doors and being loud.

Before you report the noise, you should:

• Talk to your neighbours to find out if they are affected as well.

• Talk to the person causing the problem because they may be helpful when they understand the problem. 

• However, it would be wise to consider what reaction you are likely to get. If your neighbour reacts aggressively, do not put yourself at risk.

• If you are a private tenant, contact your landlord or residents' association.

   Report the noise