Dealing with Noise Nuisance
As introduced yesterday, we are marking ASB Awareness Week with a series of articles on this high profile topic and today’s article is focussing on noise nuisance.
With regards to noise nuisance particularly, we often advise tenants that the best way to deal with the problem is to go to the source and talk to the person causing the issue. However, we do stress that before a tenant approaches their neighbour, it is important to assess the risk to their personal safety and property.
If they deem it appropriate to approach the neighbour, we suggest that they:
- Be careful
- Plan in advance what they are going to say or write a carefully worded letter.
- Keep calm and be pleasant and then they are more likely to respond positively to the complaint.
- Never approach the neighbour when the noise is actually happening as they are more likely to be angry and argumentative. This is especially the case if a party is taking place and alcohol is likely to be involved.
If the complainant is frightened or intimidated by their neighbour or believes they may react aggressively, then they first need to check whether the neighbours are SEH tenants. It is contained within the Conditions of Tenancy that tenants must not cause nuisance to neighbours so their Tenancy Services Officer will be able to assist in such cases.
If the complainant gets a negative response from their neighbour when they approach them and the problem continues, the next step would be to consider mediation. In which case they can contact their Tenancy Services Officer via email or call them on 0800 833 160 or via our 24-hour Anti-Social Behaviour reporting line 0800 833 163 and the appropriate referrals can be made.
For noise nuisance queries relating to non-SEH tenants, we suggest that residents may wish to visit the Southend-on-Sea City Council web pages relating to Noise Pollution, which you can access by clicking here: Noise pollution – Southend-on-Sea City Council.