Domestic entertainment noise is the biggest cause of complaint between neighbours. Noise from televisions, radios and (especially) stereo systems is a growing problem.

Download the radio and TV noise leaflet

Be considerate

Although any kind of music at high volume is noisy, today's music has a much heavier bass beat which penetrates buildings very easily. Modern sound systems are also designed to give you more bass.

A thudding bass beat at 1am in the morning is certainly a serious nuisance and an offence under the Environmental Protection Act, 1990.

How to avoid problems with domestic sound systems

• Hours of use: People need to rest from noise in the evening and on weekends, especially those with young children. Generally we suggest you be considerate about the noise volumes after about 11pm at night
• Loudspeakers: These should not be fixed to or even close to the wall (or floor) between you and your neighbour
• Vibration: Isolate the speakers from the floor or the wall between you and your neighbours. Use a speaker stand or put carpet or underlay under them to deaden the sound
• Volume: Keep the volume as low as possible. As it gets later into the evening, turn it down.
• Bass: Use the bass controls and do not have too much bass beat.
• Headphones: Can be used with almost all home entertainment equipment.

Loss of hearing

People with hearing difficulties often have their televisions on high volume. A special adaptor can be fitted to the television so it 'talks' directly to a hearing aid, so the volume doesn't have to be so high.

Report a noise nuisance