How we deal with domestic noise

Loud music

Music is probably the most common form of noise nuisance by being played too loud, too long and too late. Loud music is mostly (but not always) a problem in the evening and if we receive a call about loud music we will try to visit and witness the noise as soon as possible.

We will often telephone complainants first to find out if the noise is continuous or intermittent so we can arrange to visit at a time when we are most likely to hear the noise.

The action we take will depend on the nature of the problem and could range from writing a warning letter to serving a legal notice. However, we are not expected to intervene at the time that the noise is witnessed, unless we are sure there is no risk to our safety or if we have the assistance of the police.

Other domestic noise

A wide variety of noise sources fall into this category, from DIY to barking dogs, TV to washing machines. We handle these complaints the same as with loud music.

Inadequate sound insulation

Where older houses have been converted into flats the lack of proper sound insulation between flats often gives rise to intrusive noise. Unfortunately, because of recent legal decisions, we cannot treat such noise as a nuisance and therefore we are unable to take action, unless we can demonstrate some unreasonable use.

Report domestic nuisance

If you wish to report domestic noise you can:

• Report it online, or 
• Report it by phone: call 020 8871 6127

Please do not report a nuisance using this telephone number or online form if you live on a council housing estate, as there is separate guidance for this.

We will investigate all complaints no matter when they are received or the time of day they relate to and officers will be on duty during the following times:

• Monday to Friday: 9am to 5pm

With the additional evening and weekend operating hours of:

• Thursday: 7pm to 2am
• Friday: 8pm to 3am
• Saturday: 1pm to 3am
• Sunday: 9am to 4pm and 7pm to 2am

Reports made outside of these hours will be logged and responded to when officers are available to do so.

Christmas 2024

No service will be provided on the following days: 

• Wednesday 25 December 2024 (Christmas Day)
• Thursday 26 December 2024 (Boxing Day)
• Wednesday 1 January 2025 (New Year’s Day)

Taking your own legal action

If we are unable to take action you can consider taking your own legal action. View guidance on how to take your own action.