Late-night stomping upstairs? A party next door until 3 AM?
You may think calling the police is pointless, but in the UK, noise disturbance can actually be officially investigated and enforced.
1. What counts as “noise nuisance”?
In the UK, noise issues are regulated under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
If the noise is frequent, severe, and affects your daily life or health, it may be classified as a statutory nuisance.
Common examples include:
• Long-term late-night parties, loud music, or karaoke
• Persistent dog barking or continuous construction noise
• Tenants causing high-impact floor vibration in shared buildings
• Neighbours doing laundry, cleaning, or banging on walls late at night
2. Does complaining help?
Yes — as long as you follow the correct steps.
1) Gather evidence
Stay calm and record the time, frequency, and volume of the noise. Videos or decibel-meter apps can help.
2) Report to your Local Council
Every Council has a “Noise Complaint” page.
You can:
• Search “Noise complaint + your city name”
• Submit the online form with recordings or videos
• In some cases, officers may visit at night to monitor noise levels
3) If the Council confirms the nuisance, they may issue:
• A Noise Abatement Notice requiring the noise to stop
• If ignored, fines can go up to £5,000 (individuals) or £20,000 (businesses)
3. What if the Council does nothing?
You may consider:
• Filing a private nuisance claim at the Magistrates’ Court
• Asking a solicitor to issue a formal solicitor’s letter, demanding the neighbour stop the noise and compensate for losses
Often, a solicitor’s letter resolves the issue quickly without worsening neighbour relations.
4. Legal tips
• Do not confront neighbours directly — this may expose you to harassment allegations
• Follow official procedures and involve a solicitor to ensure legality and evidence preservation
• If you are renting, you can also complain to your landlord or letting agent and request intervention
Need help taking the first step?
We can assist with:
• Assessing whether the noise meets the legal threshold
• Drafting solicitor’s letters or communicating with the Council
• Filing civil claims on your behalf if necessary
Send us a message — let a professional solicitor help you finally enjoy a quiet night’s sleep.
