This is generally a matter of common sense and treating your neighbour as you would wish to be treated. There are no specific rules to be followed but here are some guidelines.

Radios, TV's, Stereos

• Keep the volume as low as possible, especially late at night. Use headphones (either cord type or infra red which give more freedom of movement), or listen to music on a personal stereo.
• When not using headphones, the bass control should be set at a low level as the "bass beat" can be particularly irritating. If you are having a party or barbecue, remember the neighbours - let them know beforehand or better still invite them.
• Most people are willing to accept more noise occasionally if they know when the noise will end and that will be able to get some sleep.

• Site fridges, freezers, washing machines and loudspeakers well away from party walls.
• Stand washing machines/spin dryers on a solid floor or place on a carpet/rubber mat to reduce vibration.
• If people live below you, fit carpets and underlay.
• Close doors gently, don't slam them.

• Carry out noisier operations during the day keeping the evening for less noisy work.
• Complete the work as quickly as possible - don't let it drag on for months.
• Let your neighbours know beforehand if you are carrying out potentially noisy operations, using power tools or working on party walls or floors. Use hand tools if possible.

• Don't rev the engine excessively.
• Close doors quietly.
• Use the car horn only for emergencies.
• Keep music levels down, keep windows closed. If possible, carry out repair work in a garage.
• Carry out noisy operations during the day and avoid Sundays and bank holidays.

• Don't let your dog bark or whine for long periods.
• Keep your dog indoors if it barks constantly when unattended or disturbed.
• If your dog still barks when indoors make arrangements to leave it with a neighbour or friend or get someone to call in - leave its favourite toy or put the radio on at very low volume.
• Move the kennel or erect a fence so that your dog is disturbed less often by passers-by. Attend a dog training class to retrain your dog and change his / her behaviour.

Intruder alarms

It is free to register a keyholder for your burglar alarm with us, this can be a friend, family member or neighbour we can contact to switch off your alarm if it malfunctions whilst you are out. Contact the Environmental Protection Section for more details. In the event of an alarm going off continuously and there being no keyholder registered for the building, we would disconnect the alarm by forced entry if necessary and a charge would be incurred by the owner. As a safeguard you could fit a 20-minute cut-out to the alarm sounder but you should consult your insurers before doing this. For more information click here