Resolving strata noise complaints - Simple steps to deal with noise in a strata property

Date published: 28/01/2020, updated 02/08/2024

If you live with lots of neighbours nearby, there’s a high chance you’ve been kept awake by a raucous party (and possibly held a raucous party of your own) – or you’ve been woken by their early morning workout routines, a dog barking or even just the clatter of hard heels on timber floors.

Noise complaints in a strata setting refer to concerns raised by residents due to disruptive or excessive noise originating from within the strata property. These complaints typically involve disturbances such as loud music, parties, barking dogs, noisy renovations, or other activities that disturb the peace.

These disturbances can significantly affect residents' quality of life, causing sleep disruptions, stress, and tension among neighbours. Addressing noise issues effectively is essential for maintaining a harmonious living environment in strata properties.

There are regulations in place for acceptable levels of noise in strata communities depending on your local council.

Understand Strata noise regulation in your state

Noise restrictions vary from state to state, with regulations in strata schemes governed by specific legislation and regulatory bodies as outlined below:

Noise restrictions in NSW strata complex

In NSW, noise complaints within strata complexes are managed under the Strata Schemes Management Act 2015, which outlines procedures for addressing noise disputes between residents. Time restrictions typically require quiet between certain hours, which can vary depending on local council policies and by-laws.

From 7 am to 10 pm, noise levels should not exceed 5 decibels above the background noise in the area. Between 10 pm and 7 am, noise levels should not surpass the background noise by more than 5 decibels.

Noise restrictions in Victoria strata complex

In Victoria, noise restrictions in strata complexes are governed by local council policies and the Environment Protection Authority Victoria. Victoria Police also play a role in enforcing noise regulations. For example, under the Victorian Police Party Safe program, police may direct that unreasonable noise be abated for up to 72 hours. If this direction is not followed, a fine of $738* may be issued on the spot.

In Victoria, noise restriction times are as follows: Monday to Thursday, noise should be kept down before 7am and after 10pm. On Fridays, noise should be reduced before 7am and after 11pm. On Saturdays and public holidays, noise should be minimised before 9am and after 11pm. On Sundays, excessive noise is prohibited before 9am and after 10pm.

Noise restrictions in QLD strata complex

Queensland's noise restrictions in strata complexes are managed by local councils and Queensland Police, which provide guidelines on permissible noise levels and quiet hours to manage community noise.

Council can issue an on-the-spot fine or a Direction Notice for nuisance residential noise. The Environmental Protection Act 1994 outlines allowable noise levels for different types of equipment and activities.

Resolving strata complaints step-by-step

When things get really noisy, our first reaction might be to angrily confront the neighbours, or call the council or police, but such approaches might not always be the most effective.

So, what should you do when noise gets too loud? Try these steps.

1. Check body corporate/ owners’ corporations rules

Some body corporate/ owners’ corporations have rules in place as to when noise levels have to be lowered. They also may have dispute resolution procedures, especially if your apartment complex has a building manager.

2. Chat to your neighbours

If you feel comfortable doing so, take a few deep breaths and knock on their door, alert them to the noise problem and explain why it’s bothering you. Keep a level head, be friendly and have some solutions in mind.

3. Write a note to your neighbours.

You can put your name to it or do it anonymously, but at least be polite and explain the problem rationally and suggest reasonable options. You’re more likely to get a better response.

4. Keep a record of noisy incidents

This is especially helpful when loud dog barking is a problem as often owners are away when this happens and are unaware of it being a problem.

5. Chat to other neighbours in the strata complex

They might also be bothered by the noise and will help support your complaint or even offer other solutions. The committee members live there too so there may be some common interest in maintaining standards of behaviour.

6. Get help from the Owners Corporation/Strata committee

The committee members live there too so there may be some common interest in maintaining standards of behaviour.

7. Check local council and EPA laws

Simply explaining to your neighbour that certain noise outside specified times (e.g. music after 11pm and machinery after 8pm) could fall foul of the law, might be enough.

8. As a last resort, notify authorities

This could be the body corporate, the police, or your local council. Such a step should only be taken after all other reasonable options have failed.

Preventive Measures for Strata Noise Issues

Excessive noise can be disruptive and frustrating. Fortunately, there are effective ways to prevent noise issues within your strata complex.

1. Building Design and Materials

Implementing soundproofing measures such as soundproof wall panels or curtains and quality building materials is crucial to reducing noise in strata properties.

2. Rules and By-laws

Establishing and enforcing clear rules that address noise levels and quiet hours helps manage and minimise disturbances among residents. Display noise regulation signs in common areas to help reinforce these expectations.

3.Community Engagement

Promoting community activities like social gatherings, regular meetings, and workshops can foster open communication and mutual understanding among residents.

FAQs

1. How to write a noise complaint letter to strata?

In a written letter, include specifics such as the type of noise (e.g. loud music), the dates and times it occurs, and how it affects your quality of life. Clearly and politely request action from your strata manager. Submit your noise complaint to your strata manager or committee for resolution. Here are some further resources to help you make a noise complaint in your state:

2. What if I get the noisy neighbour note?

Always stay calm and rational. If the note is anonymous, take on board what they’ve said and think about how you can keep doing what you’re doing but at different times or with a little less noise.

If they have spoken to you in person or left contact details, consider a reasonable solution that makes everyone happy. Always remain calm and rational (even if they don’t) – after all, these may well be people you have to pass every day, which can make things even more awkward.

Tips for Maintaining a Peaceful Strata Community

Here are some helpful tips for maintaining a peaceful - and quiet - strata community:

Build positive relationships with neighbours: Open and respectful communication is key to maintaining harmony in a strata community.
Attend strata meetings: Regularly attend strata meetings to stay informed about any developments or changes in your strata community.
Participate in social events: Engage in community activities and social gatherings to get to know your neighbours and build rapport.
Respect common areas: Be mindful of noise levels in shared spaces and keep them clean and tidy to show consideration to others.
Respect everyone’s privacy: Ensure your activities don’t infringe on your neighbour’s comfort and privacy. Be respectful, and avoid unnecessary intrusions into their personal space.

Conclusion

Living in a strata community means being aware of the noise you generate and understanding how your activities can impact your neighbours' peace and privacy. Adhering to state regulations and strata by-laws helps residents maintain a harmonious and welcoming environment for everyone. If you do happen to encounter a noise issue, it’s important to address it promptly and politely. If the issue cannot be resolved by directly talking to your neighbour, then bringing it to the attention of your strata manager or committee can facilitate a resolution.

Contact Flex today for more guidance on managing strata properties and how insurance can help protect your investment and peace of mind.