Home is where we go to retreat from the hustle and bustle of the world, so it's frustrating when our peaceful, private zone is hampered by exterior noise. Noise pollution is a common problem that many homeowners face, and the urge to find noise-proofing solutions is growing. Let's take a look at the most common types of domestic noise pollution affecting people in the UK.
1. Noisy neighbours
Music, raised voices, babies crying, dogs barking, DIY sounds and alarms all make up typical residential noise pollution. Noise from neighbours is something many of us learn to live with, particularly when we share walls with neighbouring properties. However, sometimes it can be frustrating to hear the goings-on of the households around us, particularly if the noise produced exceeds a reasonable level.
The Environmental Protection Act 1990 classes noise as a statutory nuisance when it interferes substantially with the enjoyment of a home. Local authorities can prosecute, issue fines or remove noise-producing equipment where neighbours become unreasonably noisy and do not reduce their noise levels. Typically, this will only occur if the noise disturbance is regular and persistent, such as if they're playing music very loud on a daily basis.
2. Road traffic noise
Noise from road traffic is the biggest cause of noise pollution in Europe, both within and outside of urban areas. Noise nuisance laws don't apply to traffic noise, so any complaints you have about the noisiness of roads near your house won't result in a fine or prosecution. However, when new roads or properties are built, noise levels are taken into account by developers to minimise noise pollution to local residents.
Some road traffic noise is caused by vehicle faults or modified exhaust systems. The latter is illegal, and the former can lead to police action if reported. Car exhaust systems are fitted with silencers to ensure they meet safety and environmental standards. If you notice a vehicle sounds much louder than usual and it's causing a disturbance, you could report it to the police.
3. Night time noise
Noise disturbances at night tend to be harder to put up with than those that happen during the day because they interrupt our sleep. Unfortunately, some noises are more likely to happen at night, such as loud music at parties and raised voices from revellers walking home from pubs and clubs. Noise from wild animals like foxes can also wake us at night.
People who live in urban areas are more likely to experience noise pollution at night, particularly if there's a pub, bar, restaurant or club nearby. Owners and managers of venues have a responsibility to prevent nuisance noise, such as letting their patrons shout on the street outside the establishment. Local residents can call for a review of a business' licence if night time noise pollution is a persistent problem.
Noise pollution might be common, but that doesn't mean you have to put up with it. Laws are in place to protect you from nuisance noise, and you can also take steps to soundproof your property to enjoy greater peace and quiet.
