Noisy neighbours are the number one annoyance to all of us and in our increasingly overpopulated world the problem is increasing. With more aged buildings being converted into flats, and new-builds often suffering from thin walls or not very much space between properties, it’s incredibly common to hear some sort of noise from the adjacent house.

When this is just the odd argument or spot of home improvements it’s quite bearable and you can consider yourself fortunate that’s all you have to live with. Even if you have relatively decent neighbours you could still overhear arguments, what they’re building, the sound of their toilet flushing or a crying baby. All these ordinary sounds can grate if you’re constantly suffering from them. You feel like you’re taking part in someone else’s life, or that your own life is being disrupted. Especially irksome is noise when you’re trying to sleep – which can affect the waking day and even affect your state of mind.

If assuming your neighbours not actually doing anything untoward what might you do about it? It’s one thing to listen to their irksome brats playing soldiers but all they’re doing is flushing the toilet and disturbing your beauty sleep!

The folks next door may be entirely innocent of the the effect their habits are having on you. Or they might be offended by your curious quirks! If there’s an easy option to take, such as for them not to wear high heels indoors or to change their damn alarm clock it’s worth knocking on their door and talking it through. Be friendly and make sure they know it’s down to the architects. After all, if you listen to them chances are they’re listening to you too. So ask if there’s some way you can help to keep your own noise down – have you ever had the TV up late at night?

If you live in rented duplexes, talk to the person you rent from. Ask other residents if they feel there’s a problem too – you could get the tenament sound tested to see if is compliant with regulations. Of course, some landlords are less concerned than others. If your landlord has soundproofed to the legally required levels, the responsibility is back on you and your own feelings about the noise.

Sometimes fitting acoustic installation is the quickest solution. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it is advisable to get an expert to look at your house up front. A professional will be able to find you the most effective solution.

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