Image Credit Pixabay.com License CC0
Living with noise can be very uncomfortable. Whether the noise is coming from your neighbours, or from nearby roads, shops, or even bars, having constant disturbances can stop you from relaxing and can even impact on your ability to get a good night’s sleep.
Moving homes is not always an option. It can be very expensive to move to a new home, and there may be many other practical reasons why this solution is not available to you. You may even like your property, and want to stay there for many other reasons.
But putting up with the problem is not something that you should have to do. While there are ways that you can protect your home from the noise, there are ways of handling the situation and taking the matter up with the noisemakers themselves, or your local authorities.
Protecting Your Home From Noise
There may be some noise problems that you may have less control over than others. If your property is built near a busy road or under the flight path of a local airport, for example, getting changes made to the routes that vehicles and planes take may be unlikely. You can look at making changes to your actual property though.
Having modern UPVC windows fitted throughout your property will help to minimize the sound that is able to come through there. You may also want to look at having soundproofing within the walls of your property if this is an option.
Having retractable screen doors is a commonly used solution that is excellent for keeping out the noises of any roads that pass by your front door.
If you own lots of books, use bookshelves on the walls nearest where the sounds come from in order to absorb the noise.
Taking Matters Up With The Noisemakers
Confronting the noisemakers can be a challenge. If you have noisy neighbours, you should politely approach them to talk about the noise. Avoid making accusations or threats. They may not realize that the noise has had an impact on you. If you are met with aggression or rudeness, or you find that they ignore your requests, approach your local authorities to seek advice and make a complaint.
If the noise is coming from a local bar or business that is in close proximity, they may be in violation of noise pollution regulations. Speak with the local authority to see where you stand. If the business owner seems like a reasonable person, it may be worthwhile speaking with them first and allowing them to make changes before any action is taken.
When it comes to roads and airports nearby, changes can be made with enough pressure, but it can take a lot of work. Find others in the area that are affected and start petitions. Create a group that will take the issue up with the local planning authorities and be sure and seek out full and professional legal advice on the matter first.
Please note that some of the links above and below are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.
