What is unreasonable neighbour noise?

What Counts as Unreasonable Neighbour Noise?

Living near other people means dealing with some level of noise—it’s unavoidable. But when does background chatter, music, or late-night activity cross the line? Not all noise is a problem in the eyes of the law. For neighbour noise to be considered a legal issue—what’s known as a "statutory nuisance"—it must go beyond mere annoyance.

Local councils can only step in if the noise is serious enough to either unreasonably and substantially interfere with how you use and enjoy your home. That means more than just an occasional loud TV or a party every now and then. We’re talking about persistent, disruptive sounds—like constant shouting, thumping music late at night, or early-morning DIY that goes on for weeks.

Another key factor is whether the noise injures or is likely to injure your health. This could include sleep disruption, stress, or anxiety caused by ongoing disturbances. The law recognises that chronic noise exposure can have real effects on well-being, not just comfort.

It’s also worth noting that timing, frequency, and volume all matter. A lawnmower at 8 a.m. on a Saturday might be normal. That same lawnmower at 6 a.m. every weekday? That could be pushing it. Context is everything—what’s reasonable in a busy city might not be in a quiet suburban area.

If you're struggling with neighbour noise, keep a record: dates, times, and how it affects you. This helps if you need to involve your council. Most disputes can be resolved with a polite conversation. But when that doesn’t work, knowing your rights makes a difference.