Vale of White Horse District Council
Abbey House, Abbey Close,
Abingdon, OX14 3JE
Email: comments@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Telephone: 01235 520202

Vale of White Horse District Council

What you can do if you are being bothered by a noisy neighbour

The Council has a statutory duty to investigate noise complaints and take formal action when appropriate. However, there are a number of other options you can try first to resolve the problem yourself before making an official complaint.

Many people do not realise the effect their enjoyment of loud music or other noisy activities may have on their neighbours. They might well act in a more responsible and considerate way if the facts are politely brought to their attention. Often the best way forward is to discuss the problem with your neighbour.  

Trying to resolve the problem at an early stage is likely to lead to the best solution. An investigation by the Council is likely to take some time to stop the noise.

Also, if the case does end up in going before the courts the fact that you have acted reasonably and tried to resolve the noise by talking to your neighbour in a civilised manner could count in your favour.

If talking with your neighbour does not resolve the problem, or you feel unable to approach your neighbour, you could write to them.

If neither of these approaches work, mediation may be a useful option to consider. It is a voluntary process in which trained mediators help you and your neighbour work together to reach a mutually acceptable solution. The Council can put you in contact with a mediation service. Please contact Environmental Health for more details - see the contact details on the right.

If you are unable to reach an amicable solution or you feel unable to approach the person responsible for the noise, then you should report the problem to the Vale – see How to complain to the Council about a noise nuisance for details on how to do this.