Noise can be disturbing, but it is not always anti-social behaviour. Speaking to your neighbour can often help, as they may not realise their noise is affecting you.
If the noise continues, use the information below to decide what to do next.
You can also read guidance on domestic noise, smoke and DIY nuisance.
Email: neighbourhoodasb@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk
We will take details from you and agree what will happen next. This may include speaking to the neighbour, visiting the home, or offering mediation.
We usually ask you to complete online diary sheets for 14 days. These help us understand how often the noise happens and how it affects you. If the diary sheets show a persistent problem, we will investigate using our specialist officers. If enforcement action is needed, we will take the appropriate tenancy steps with you.
Find out how to report domestic noise or nuisance.
If you regularly hear loud music from a neighbour, speak to them first if it is safe. They may not realise you can hear it. We do not investigate one-off situations, such as a single party.
If the noise continues after you have spoken to them, please tell us.
Hearing shouting or arguments can be upsetting. If it is safe, try speaking to your neighbour first. They may not realise how far sound carries. We do not investigate one-off incidents.
If the noise continues, please tell us.
Call 999.
Find out about adult safeguarding.
Read about child safeguarding.
Dogs bark, and this is not always anti-social behaviour. We can only act if the barking is:
If it is safe, speak to your neighbour first. They may not realise their dog is disturbing you. If the barking continues, please tell us.
DIY noise is not anti-social behaviour unless the noise is persistent and happens at unreasonable times.
Read guidance on domestic noise, smoke and DIY nuisance.
If DIY noise is disturbing you, speak to your neighbour first. They may not realise how far the sound travels. If it continues, please tell us.
Baby crying is not anti-social behaviour.
If you are worried about the safety of a baby or child, please contact us immediately.
Children playing is not anti-social behaviour. Play is important for children’s health and development, and some noise is expected.
If children are disturbing you, you can speak to their parents or carers. We can offer mediation if both sides agree.
If children cause damage through play, please report it.
Email neighbourhoodasb@centralbedfordshire.gov.uk after you have reported the damage to the police.
Find out how to report anti-social behaviour for non-tenants.
Everyday living noise is not anti-social behaviour. Sound travels between homes, especially in flats. We ask everyone to be considerate, such as avoiding loud appliances late at night.
We do not give permission for laminate flooring in flats because it can increase noise transfer.
If living noise is disturbing you, speak to your neighbour first. We can offer mediation if both sides agree.