Neighbours, Parties and Noise Complaints

You have a responsibility towards neighbours and others in your community, and not taking this seriously can result in problems with the neighbours, university disciplinary issues, or even a fine or criminal conviction. 

Can I have a party?

Your house is your home and you have a right to have guests, and even a party, so long as this does not cause problems for other people.

The first thinks to do is of course to make sure everyone in the house agrees. 

After this, think about who you will invite, how many people, and what you will do if too many people turn up.

Speak to your neighbours, let them know and agree a time that it will end, and give them a contact if they have concerns.  Don't assume that just because their are younger, or are other students they won't mind.

Make clear to people coming whether they can bring other people, and be prepared to say no if too many people turn up.

Consider noise issues. If you want to have a band, a DJ or soundsystem you should hire a venue.

I have received a noise complaint, what do I do?

If the council or police turn up and ask you to turn down the noise, or to end the party, it is best to do this. If they have asked you to keep the noise down, but you do not think it is excessive, consider whether you will be able to control the noise, or if it is better to end the event. Large numbers of people talking can be very loud. 

If you have received a warning, and there is further noise, the council can fine everyone in the house and can confiscate equipment - this can include anything that can make a noise - computers, sound systems, TVs, musical instruments - you may lose equipment you need for your course.

If you receive a letter from the University asking you to attend a workshop on noise and citizenship you must do this, otherwise you will come under the disciplinary procedure. 

If you are asked to respond to a disciplinary allegation from the University, or have a warning from the council, seek some advice from Help and Support.

How much noise is reasonable?

There is no strict interpretation of how much noise is reasonable. Day to day living can create noise, such as cleaning, children playing, DIY and so on. Broadly speaking noise is considered less of an issue between 8am and 11pm, but this is not absolute - for example, excessively loud music could be an issue at any time. Drilling into the walls may be considered inappropriate in the early evening, but a baby crying even at 3am may not. 

If you have work being done on your house, or may need to make some noise (such as practicing an musical instrument) try and speak to neighbours to find out how best to avoid disturbing them.  

Remember some old houses may not be as insulated to sound, especially if you live in a flat, and you may need to take this into account.

I think my neighbour is being unreasonable, what can I do?

Try and speak to your neighbour and make some agreements. Try not to get into an argument. If you feel they are being unreasonable, then speak to help and support and we can advise.

My neighbour is making a noise, what can I do?

If you neighbour is making an unreasonable noise, you can report this to the council at https://www.leeds.gov.uk/antisocial-behaviour-and-crime/making-a-noise-complaint, but it is always best to try and resolve this amicably first.

My neighbour is threatening me or harassing me, what can I do?

If your neighbour is behaving in a threatening manner, you can involve the police, or council. You can also speak to the University Report and Support Team about any form of harassment.