Domestic Noise
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Noisy Neighbours
The Environmental Health Department has powers to take action where there is regular disturbance caused by noise. Typically an investigation will involve an officer visiting both parties to establish the facts of the complaint.
If the problem persists then complainants will be asked to monitor the frequency of the nuisance to see if it can be classed as ‘regular and frequent’. An Environmental Health officer will attempt to witness the noise to determine whether it can be classed as a statutory nuisance. This may be done electronically using noise monitoring equipment. If nuisance is proved an officer may then serve a notice requiring the abatement of the noise.
For a notice to be served the person making the complaint must be identified on the notice.
If this notice is breached the department may take legal action that can result in a £5,000 fine and seizure of any music equipment.There are circumstances where an officer may serve notice with immediate effect but these are rare. Such action would generally involve large events such as illegal ‘raves’. Any such action would generally involve the Police and be related to Public Order offences.
DIY noise
Persons carrying out DIY work that may cause disturbance are advised to speak to their neighbours prior to starting work. We recommend that any noisy or dusty work is restricted to the normal working hours of 0800 to 1800 on weekdays and 0900 to 1300 on Saturdays.
There is no daytime restriction to protect people who work irregular hours or shift workers
Barking Dogs
Complaints about barking dogs will be dealt with by our Animal Welfare officer. Dogs tend to bark when lonely and/or bored. It is good practice to ensure that animals are not left unattended all day but are walked in the middle of the day. When the animal is on its own in the house try leaving a radio on quietly to provide a source of human voices. Dogs should also be left some toys to play with/chew on; this also reduces damage to the furniture.
ASBO noise
Shouting, swearing, banging doors etc. are NOT covered by the Environmental Protection Act 1990 which defines statutory nuisance. They may be dealt with by the Kennet Community Safety Partnership as anti-social behaviour.
The Anti-Social Behaviour Reduction Officer (ASBRO) for Kennet is John Galbally. He undertakes a liaison role to ensure effective multi-agency working on anti-social behaviour interventions as well as cases, collating information and evidence for action. He will also gather witness statements and provide support for witnesses and acts as a professional witness in Court.
For more information, or to contact the ASBRO, you can call 01380 724911.
Parties
One-off parties are unlikely to be a statutory nuisance unless they affect a large number of people i.e. Raves.
But it is best to try and avoid noise complaints by doing the following:
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Tell all the neighbours when the part will be and that the noise will be turned down/off after 23:00
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Best of all invite the neighbours!
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Keep the noise to a reasonable level, especially if the event is outside
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Avoid playing music outside if at all possible and NEVER put speakers on the window ledge especially in upstairs rooms
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Ideally keep windows and doors shut to keep noise inside
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Remember that ALL the neighbours have as much right to peace and quiet as you do to have a party
If you would like to inform Environmental Health about a large and/or outdoor party you are planning, please phone 01380 724911.
Contact us
If you wish to speak to an Environmental Health Officer about a noise complaint, please contact us by emailing kennet@kennet.gov.uk
or telephone us on 01380 724911