Noise

Repetitive noise, day-in day-out, can lead to stress and make life miserable, especially for the housebound and those with health problems.

 

There is evidence that people are becoming more concerned about noise. There are a number of possible reasons for this. People have different sensitivities and expectations. While many of us have more time to pursue varied leisure interests, we don't always stop to think about what impact our activities are having on others.

 

 

Wokingham Borough Council can issue an Abatement Notice under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 where they consider that noise is causing a statutory nuisance and can take action to prevent any further noise nuisance. Any contravention could result in a fine of up to £5000, or £20,000 for commercial operations.

 

Some types of noise nuisance are specified in law for example car horns should not be sounded between 11.30pm and 7am in built up areas unless it is an emergency; Ice cream vans are only permitted to use sound between 12pm and 7pm; and car radios may not be played between 9pm and 8am if people in the area are likely to be annoyed.

 

 

 

 

It is important to consider your neighbours when you are doing something noisy or let them know beforehand, especially if holding a Party.

 

 

 

Faults can develop with car alarms resulting in the persistent sounding of the alarm, which can cause distress to local residents.

 

If a car alarm sounds for more than one hour, notice can be served on the vehicle owner. This allows the council to stop the noise by, if necessary, forcibly entering the vehicle or removing it to a suitable place to silence the alarm. The owner or keeper of the vehicle will be responsible for any cost incurred from this action.

 

To avoid this situation, car owners are recommended to have their alarms fitted by a competent installer, ensure it has an automatic cut-out which will silence it shortly after it has been activated, check the alarm regularly to make sure it is still operating correctly, and have faults rectified immediately.

 

 

House intruder alarms can cause considerable noise disturbance if left to sound excessively.

 

If an alarm is causing a nuisance and no one is available to respond, we have powers to enter the home and silence the alarm. Any costs in doing so will be recovered from the person responsible for the alarm.

 

To avoid these problems, make sure your alarm has a cut out device to silence it after 20 minutes, notify your local police station of at least two nominated key holders or a contractor who can respond at any time if your alarm is activated, and make sure your alarm registration details are kept up to date at all times.