A new study* has found that more than half of people living in cities say their surroundings have become louder in the past five years, while 45% report noise disrupting their lives weekly.
So, what should Thetford landlords know about managing noise — and what steps can you take when complaints arise?
Understanding what counts as noise
Not all noise is a nuisance. Some sounds are part of normal life — think traffic, children playing, DIY during the day, or a TV at a reasonable volume.
However, certain noises are classed as statutory noise nuisances, meaning councils can take legal action against them. These include:
• Excessive noise from businesses or vehicles
• Loud music or parties late at night
• Persistent dog barking
• Shouting, arguing or antisocial behaviour
In such cases, local authorities can issue abatement notices, which legally require the noise to stop.
If neighbours are being noisy
If your tenants are affected by noisy neighbours, you’re not directly responsible — but you can help mediate.
Encourage tenants to speak to the neighbour politely, or if that doesn’t work, to contact the council’s environmental health department for support.
A little goodwill and communication can often go a long way in resolving these disputes early.
If your tenants are causing the noise
If neighbours complain about your tenants, again, you’re not legally accountable — but it’s wise to intervene.
Speak to your tenants, remind them of their obligations, and warn them that continued complaints could result in action from the council or, in serious cases, eviction for antisocial behaviour.
If your property is licensed (such as an HMO), unresolved noise issues could even affect future licence renewals.
Applying common sense
Noise is subjective. What one person considers disruptive might seem perfectly normal to someone else.
Time of day and consistency are key — a single noisy barbecue isn’t the same as nightly loud parties.
Wherever possible, encourage communication before escalation. Legal routes are available, but common sense and courtesy often solve problems faster and with less stress for everyone involved.
If you’d like advice on managing noise complaints or want to make life as a landlord simpler, contact our lettings team today.
Source: Chartered Institute of Environmental Health report
Article by Andrew Overman | Partner | Location Location East
