Additional guidance for dealing with nuisance DIY noise

There will always be occasions when we need to carry out DIY work in our homes, especially if you have just moved in, renovating or redecorating. It is considered common courtesy to notify your neighbours about the work you will be carrying out, explain to them what you are doing, how long you expect it to last and any particularly noisy/dusty times that may arise from the DIY works. Complaints may be avoided if people are aware of your timetable and if the nuisance to neighbours are considered when completing such DIY works. 

Whilst there is no statutory law in terms of times when you can carry out DIY works in your home, below is a guide for when is generally acceptable:

• Monday to Friday - 8am until 6pm.
• Saturdays - 8am until 1pm.
• No work to be carried out on a Sunday and bank holidays if can be avoided or for emergencies.

Whilst we encourage you to speak to your neighbours about noise (including vibration) or dust from DIY, there is no legal requirement for you to do this. However it may mean the problem is resolved quicker and more amicably. 

If you wish to make a complaint about DIY related issues, or if you have had a complaint made against you about DIY related issues, we have a duty to invesitgate. If we agree that the DIY issues are a statutory nuisance, further enforcement action may be taken against you, by means of a community protection warning/notice or if the issue relates to noise, a noise abatement notice. Failiure to comply with these warning/notices may result in a fine or ultimately, prosecution.