What is the difference between sound and noise?

 

Sound is often taken for granted and we rarely appreciate all of its functions. It provides enjoyable experiences such as listening to music or the singing of birds. It enables spoken communication and it can alert or warn us - with the wailing of a siren, for example.

 

Noise is sound that is either unwanted or unpleasant. The level of annoyance depends not only on the type or quality of the sound, but also our attitude towards it. For example the type of music enjoyed by some people could be regarded as noise by others. Sound doesn't need to be loud to annoy. A creaking floor or a dripping tap can be just as annoying as loud thunder. The judgement of "loudness" also depends on the time of the day. A higher volume may be tolerated during the day than at night.

 

There are no legal noise levels, so nuisance is assessed as much by the reaction of an average reasonable person as by any technical equipment. Sometimes noise measurements may be made to support the assessment of a nuisance.

 

Avoiding a nuisance

 

Noise is a form of pollution that we can all do something about. Often we don’t know we are causing a problem until we are told about it. So a little common sense and thought can make a real difference to the comfort and health of our neighbours. Here are some simple ways to minimise noise:

 

        • Keep the volume of radios, TVs, and hi-fi equipment as low as reasonably possible particularly at night.
  • Low frequency noise (i.e. from speakers) can carry further than some sounds, so it is advisable to position speakers off the floor and facing away from party walls. Try using speaker stands or an absorbing rubber mat under the speaker and turn the bass levels down.
  • If you like your music on loud - use headphones!

  • Avoid doing noisy DIY activities after about 9pm at night and on Sundays. If neighbours have young children, they will go to bed even earlier, so try to be considerate. If you are going to be doing a lot of drilling or hammering tell your neighbours beforehand. They may be more understanding if warned in advance.

  • If you are going to have a party that will go on until late at night speak to your neighbours and let them know how long it will go on …you could even invite them!

  • Treat your neighbours as you would expect them to treat you!

Bothered by noise?

 

Noise from neighbours can cause annoyance, lack of sleep, stress, and generally affect quality of life. If you are experiencing problems with noise there are a number of options open to you.

 

  • Under no circumstances should you retaliate. This will only serve to increase tension between you and your neighbours. It will also complicate matters and may even jeopardise any court action even if you have a justified complaint. Another possibility is that counter complaints may be made about you.

  • Often the best way forward is to discuss the problem with your neighbour. An investigation by the Council can lead to a serious breakdown in neighbour relations and may not always successfully stop the noise.

  • Should talking with you neighbour not resolve the problem, or you feel unable to approach your neighbour, you could write to them. Here is an example of a suitable letter.

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  • If neither your personal approach nor your letter resolves the problem, 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. If you wish to use this service Mediation Dorset can be contacted on telephone number 01305 257717.

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  • If you are unable to reach an amicable solution or you feel unable to approach the person responsible for the noise, the Council may be able to help. If a Statutory Noise Nuisance is proved they will serve an abatement notice under section 80 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.

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  • For further information and how to make a complaint click here