Noisy Tenants? Legal Costs vs Expensive Earplugs

Are you putting your head in the sand as far as noise is concerned? Many will cite their neighbours as being at the root of stress and irritation. In some cases this can go so far as to affect the recipients professional and private lives. How many people I wonder would actually deal with this type of disruption calmly and quietly? It may be that you’ve already gone past the point of being civil when it’s time to raise the issue, but it is always best to try before temper sets in.

If you’ve already made an effort and it hasn’t worked what can you do?

Keeping a diary is essential, tracking when the noise occurs and noting down how long it lasts. Assuming you’ve already spoken to the person causing the irritation, the next step is to take the matter up with the people that own the freehold. They may be able to take action and it may carry more weight if action is seen coming from a third party.

If there’s still no change and you have evidence, try your local authority. Usually the environmental health department will carry out an investigation, and if necessary prosecute the individuals at the source of the disturbance.

The last straw

Talk to your solicitor, however beware. Initiating legal action can be expensive and time consuming. Get an idea of costs and try and choose a solicitor who has a track record in dealing with such matters.

Alternatives? Try a pair of expensive earplugs…

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