Neighbourhood Disputes: How to Deal with a Noisy Neighbour

By Nicola Turner

Noise is one of the most common causes of disputes between neighbours. When it comes to noise, we have different levels of tolerance and can react differently. What is completely bearable to some may be disruptive or disturbing to others.

When you are not used to loud noise, you may find it very irritating when your neighbour plays loud music or uses noisy tools early in the morning or late in the evening.  

• How can you deal with that?
• Should you yell and tell your neighbour to stop what they are doing or will you try to resolve the problem in a peaceful manner?
• Should you file a complaint?
• Who should you complain to?

Before you lose your temper and do something that may create more trouble, we suggest you take the time to stop and think about the issue and how best to approach it.

How do you bring it up?

Think carefully about the best way to raise the issue with your neighbour.  Rather than simply complaining to them or demanding they change their behaviour, try to be constructive and offer a solution.

For example, if your neighbour likes to noisily repair their old car early on a Saturday morning –which may be the only day you get to sleep in – you could approach them, explain the situation and suggest they do it later in the day.

It is oftentimes best to discuss the issues with your neighbour, but depending on the situation, you could consider writing to them.

Stay calm and negotiate

Neighbourhood disputes can become very heated and generate a lot of emotion, so when talking to your neighbour, be sure to remain calm.

It is easy to lose your self-control when you are furious about loud music, late night parties, or people yelling or talking loudly. These things can really affect the quality of your life and disrupt your routine/keep you and your family awake at night.

Try not to overreact and make hasty decisions. We advise you try to resolve your neighbour dispute by doing the following:-

• Arrange a meeting and share your concerns with your neighbour in a peaceful manner;
• Explain how the problem is affecting you and your family;
• Try to reach an agreement or find a solution together.

Sometimes, all it takes is a friendly face-to-face conversation. You may even consider asking a third person to come to the information meeting to act as a mediator of sorts and to give their unbiased opinion.

When to call the Police

In some neighbourhoods, there are rules in relation to noise levels at different times of the day.  For example, you are free to use your lawn mower, power tools, grass cutters and other equipment between 7am and 7pm Monday to Saturday, and 8am to 7pm on a Sunday. Some other areas prohibit building or construction noise on Sundays and Public holidays.

If your neighbour disregards this or if you have asked them to stop (politely) and they have ignored you, you may consider calling the council or Policelink to file a complaint.

When things get out of control

We always recommend attempting to resolve neighbourhood disputes in a peaceful manner, but if things seem to be getting out of control, we are here to protect your rights and assist you in every way we can.  

It is going to make for a much more pleasant neighbourhood if you can sort out disputes early and hopefully before there is a need to involve the police, council or your body corporate. Not only that, you never know when you might need to call on your neighbour to borrow a cup of sugar. 

If further legal action is required, we recommend you seek advice in relation to this. If you would like any further information please contact our dispute resolution team members, Nicola Turner or Will Evans on (07) 4771 5664 or email nicola.turner@connollysuthers.com.au.