Noisy Neighbours and Noisy Tenants: Tips for Wembley Landlords
A new study* reveals that 54% of people in cities say their environment has become louder over the last five years, while 45% report that noise disrupts their lives on a weekly basis. With that in mind, let’s look at what landlords need to know about noise and noise complaints.
What Landlords Need to Know About Noise
Some types of noise are considered part of everyday life, and little can be done about them.
Noise that is just part of everyday life includes traffic, children playing, babies crying, DIY or building work during the day, TV and music at reasonable volumes.
Some types of noise are known as statutory noise nuisances. These can be illegal, and action can be taken to stop them. The local council can issue what is known as an abatement notice.
Statutory noise nuisances include excessive noise from business premises, excessive vehicle noise, loud music and rowdy parties, constant dog barking, shouting and arguing (which may also be antisocial behaviour).
Noisy Neighbours
Landlords aren’t directly responsible if their tenants have issues with noisy neighbours in separate, nearby properties. You can help out if you want to on a goodwill basis.
Ideally, have a quiet word with the person causing the noise. Otherwise, the local council’s environmental health department may be able to offer advice.
Noisy Tenants
Landlords aren’t directly responsible if people in other properties complain that their tenants are causing a problem with noise.
However, it would be sensible to try to resolve things if you can. Have a word with your tenants. Advise them that the neighbours could complain to the council, who could take further action.
Ultimately, tenants who cause excessive noise on a regular basis could be subject to eviction for antisocial behaviour.
If the property requires a licence (for example, a house in multiple occupation), the council could refuse to renew it.
A Call for Common Sense
Noise that some people consider excessive might be perfectly reasonable to others. Often people do not realise that their noise is a problem.
Time of day and volume are also relevant.
There’s a fine line between what is normal, everyday noise and what is a statutory nuisance.
While legal remedies for noise may be available, it is something that calls for common sense on everybody’s part.
We hope you’ve found these tips handy. If you’d like to know more about how our letting and management services can make your landlord life easier, please get in touch.
If you know a landlord who would find this guide useful, please share it with them.
