How to Write a Letter of Complaint About Noisy Neighbours

Table of Contents

1. Understand When to File a Noise Complaint

Before writing a formal complaint, determine if your neighbour’s noise is unreasonable. Common causes for noise complaints include:

Loud music or television at inappropriate hours
Frequent late-night parties
Barking dogs or other loud pets
Construction or DIY projects during quiet hours
Shouting, arguments, or disturbances

Most local councils or housing associations have noise ordinances that specify quiet hours, usually between 10:00 PM and 7:00 AM.

2. Try to Resolve the Issue Informally First

Before filing a formal complaint, consider:

Speaking to your neighbour directly in a calm and polite manner
Leaving a friendly note explaining the issue
Checking community rules or noise regulations

If informal efforts fail, a written complaint may be necessary.

3. Gather Important Details for Your Complaint

To strengthen your complaint, include the following information:

Your full name and contact details
Neighbour’s address (if known)
Specific dates and times of noise disturbances
A clear description of the noise issue
Previous attempts to resolve the problem
Any evidence (videos, audio recordings, witness statements, or logs of disturbances)

Having detailed records will help authorities or landlords take action.

4. Address the Letter to the Right Authority

Depending on your living situation, send the complaint to:

The landlord or property management company (for rental properties)
The homeowners’ association (HOA) or building committee (for private communities)
The local council or environmental health department (for persistent noise violations)
The police (for extreme disturbances like violence or illegal activity)

Check your local laws for the appropriate authority to report noise complaints.

5. Use a Professional and Clear Format

Your complaint letter should be well-structured:

Your Name
Your Address
Your Contact Information (Phone/Email)
Date
Recipient’s Name and Title
Authority Name and Address (Landlord, HOA, Council, etc.)
Subject Line: “Formal Complaint Regarding Noisy Neighbours”

A well-formatted letter increases the chances of a serious response.

6. Start With a Polite and Direct Opening

Begin by stating the issue clearly and politely.

Example:

“Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to formally report an ongoing noise disturbance caused by my neighbours at [Neighbour’s Address]. Despite previous attempts to resolve this issue informally, the excessive noise continues to disrupt my daily life and well-being. I kindly request your assistance in addressing this matter.”*

Keeping a calm and professional tone increases the chances of a positive resolution.

7. Describe the Noise Problem Clearly and Objectively

Provide specific details about the noise issue, including:

What type of noise is occurring? (Loud music, shouting, barking dogs, etc.)
When and how often does it happen? (Times, dates, frequency)
How does it affect you? (Lack of sleep, stress, inability to work from home)

Example:

“For the past three months, my neighbours at [Address] have been playing loud music late at night, often between 11:00 PM and 3:00 AM. This occurs several times a week, making it difficult for me to sleep and affecting my ability to work during the day. Despite my polite requests, the noise continues.”

Avoid exaggeration and focus on facts to make your complaint more credible.

8. Mention Any Previous Attempts to Resolve the Issue

If you have spoken to your neighbour or taken other steps, mention it.

Example:

“On [Date], I spoke to [Neighbour’s Name] directly and requested that they lower the volume. They apologized but have since continued the noise. I also reported the issue to the property manager on [Date], but no action has been taken.”

This shows that you have made reasonable efforts before escalating the complaint.

9. State Your Desired Resolution

Clearly explain what action you expect from the recipient.

Example:

“I kindly request that you investigate this matter and take appropriate action to ensure that my neighbours comply with noise regulations. If necessary, I would appreciate a written warning being issued to them.”

10. Request a Response and Set a Deadline

Ask for a formal response within a reasonable timeframe.

Example:

“Please provide a written response within 14 days outlining the steps being taken to resolve this matter. If the noise disturbances continue, I may be forced to escalate my complaint to local authorities.”

This sets clear expectations while maintaining professionalism.

11. Close the Letter Professionally

End with a polite and formal closing statement.

Example:

“Thank you for your time and assistance in resolving this issue. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your response.”

Use a formal sign-off:

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Sample Complaint Letter About Noisy Neighbours

[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]
[Your Email]
[Your Phone Number]
[Date]

[Recipient’s Name]
[Title]
[Authority Name]
[Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Subject: Formal Complaint Regarding Noisy Neighbours

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

For the past three months, my neighbours have been playing loud music late at night, often between 11:00 PM and 3:00 AM. This occurs several times a week, making it difficult for me to sleep and affecting my ability to work during the day. Despite my polite requests, the noise continues.

On [Date], I spoke to [Neighbour’s Name] directly and requested that they lower the volume. They apologized but have since continued the noise. I also reported the issue to the property manager on [Date], but no action has been taken.

I kindly request that you investigate this matter and take appropriate action to ensure that my neighbours comply with noise regulations. If necessary, I would appreciate a written warning being issued to them.

Please provide a written response within 14 days outlining the steps being taken to resolve this matter. If the noise disturbances continue, I may be forced to escalate my complaint to local authorities.

Thank you for your time and assistance in resolving this issue. I appreciate your attention to this matter and look forward to your response.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Where should I send my noise complaint letter?

Your landlord or property management company (if renting)
The Homeowners’ Association (HOA) (if in a private community)
The local council or noise control department (for persistent noise issues)
The police (for extreme or illegal disturbances)

2. What if my neighbour ignores the complaint?
If the issue persists, you can escalate the complaint to:

The local council or environmental health department
Law enforcement (if the noise is excessive or involves criminal activity)

3. Can I take legal action against a noisy neighbour?
Yes, if repeated complaints are ignored, you may consult a lawyer or small claims court to seek damages.

4. Should I include evidence with my complaint letter?
Yes, attach noise logs, recordings, or witness statements to strengthen your complaint.

Conclusion

Writing a complaint letter about noisy neighbours requires professionalism, clarity, and supporting evidence. By stating the issue factually and requesting a resolution, you increase the chances of getting a quick and effective response.

Martin taggart