Sound advice

Muffle that music

Amplified music or sound is the most commonly complained about noise – so keep the volume down and place speakers away from partition walls, floors and ceilings (this applies to TVs too).

Party peace

If you have a party, warn your neighbours in advance and consider inviting them. Keep windows and doors shut and if someone complains, turn it down.

Banish barking

Barking dogs are commonly complained about too – a barking dog is lonely, bored or unhappy. If you have to leave your dog, make sure it has had enough exercise. If necessary leave the radio on to keep it company and get a neighbour to look in.

Be a quieter consumer

We use many noisy appliances around the home – operate them at sensible hours to reduce disturbance. Make sure washing machines and fridges are away from party walls, and on a mat or carpet to reduce vibration. When buying a new appliance ask about noise ratings, and choose the quieter option.

Don't alarm your neighbours

Alarms are annoying. If you have a house alarm, you should be able to register a key holder with your local environmental health department or police – this will save your neighbours trouble and you expense if your alarm goes off while you are away.

DIY din

Do noisy jobs when it will least disturb your neighbours. If you warn them in advance they are less likely to complain.

Think about floors

Before sanding your floors or laying laminate flooring – consider the layout of rooms – especially if you live in a flat or terraced house. Many leases prohibit hard floors – for good reason!

Garden grooming

Use power tools with discretion – avoid strimming or shredding when your neighbours are trying to relax in the sunshine. Splashing fountains and tinkling chimes soothe on a sunny afternoon – but can be annoying at night.

Sssh – Don't shout

Do you really need to shout to be heard? Consider the volume of your voice. In properties with poor sound insulation and outdoors – everyone can hear you! Also, avoid slamming doors and thundering up and down stairs.

Finally – Fireworks

Consider the consequences of firework noise. Fireworks frighten pets and people – and can harm hearing. If you must have fireworks at your celebration, avoid the ear splitting variety and warn your neighbours.