How to File a Noise Complaint
A step-by-step guide to addressing construction noise through UK legal channels
Before You Complain
Construction during permitted hours is generally legal, even if it's disruptive. Under the Control of Pollution Act 1974 and Environmental Protection Act 1990, councils can act on noise nuisance — but only where work exceeds what is reasonable. Knowing your rights first will make your complaint more effective.
Step-by-Step Process
Document the Noise
Before filing a complaint, gather evidence. This strengthens your case and helps your local council understand the severity of the issue.
Pro Tips:
- Record videos or audio with timestamps on your phone
- Note the date, time, duration, and type of noise
- Take photos of the construction site if visible from a public place
- Keep a written log of every incident — use our Noise Log tool
Check Local Regulations
Under the Control of Pollution Act 1974 and the Environmental Protection Act 1990, councils have powers to control construction noise. Know the rules before complaining.
Pro Tips:
- Typical permitted hours: Mon–Fri 8am–6pm, Sat 8am–1pm
- Sunday and Bank Holiday work is generally prohibited
- Large sites may operate under a Section 61 consent agreement
- Check if the site has a Construction Management Plan (CMP)
Try Direct Communication First
The quickest resolution is often speaking directly to the site manager. They may not realise they're causing a problem and may be willing to adjust.
Pro Tips:
- Ask the site manager for their contact details and work schedule
- Request advance notice before especially loud work begins
- Be polite but firm — document the conversation
- Site contact details should be displayed on the site hoarding
Contact Your Local Council
If direct contact fails, your local council's Environmental Health team is your main point of escalation. They have legal powers to act on noise nuisance.
Pro Tips:
- Find your council's Environmental Health contact at gov.uk/find-local-council
- Submit your complaint with all documented evidence
- Request an Environmental Health Officer (EHO) investigation
- Ask for a case reference number to track progress
Escalate if Needed
If the council does not respond adequately, there are further routes of escalation available to you under UK law.
Pro Tips:
- Contact your local councillor or MP for assistance
- Apply to a magistrates' court for a noise abatement order
- File a complaint with the Local Government Ombudsman
- Consider mediation through a community dispute resolution service
Who to Contact
Start with high-priority contacts and escalate if needed
Local Council – Environmental Health
Try FirstYour primary contact for all construction noise complaints. Environmental Health Officers have statutory powers under the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Planning Authority
Try FirstIf the construction lacks planning permission or is breaching conditions of its planning consent (including noise conditions in a CMP).
Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
If NeededFor concerns about dangerous work practices on site that may also be causing excessive noise.
Local Government Ombudsman
EscalateIf your council has not dealt with your complaint properly, the LGO can investigate.
Your Rights Under UK Law
Statutory Noise Nuisance
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990 (Section 80), if a council deems noise a 'statutory nuisance', they must serve an Abatement Notice on the offender.
Section 60 Notice
Under the Control of Pollution Act 1974, councils can issue a Section 60 Notice to impose restrictions on construction hours, methods, and noise levels.
Section 61 Prior Consent
Contractors can apply for a Section 61 consent in advance, agreeing acceptable noise levels and hours with the council before work begins.
Right to Apply to Court
If the council fails to act, you may apply to a magistrates' court yourself under Section 82 of the Environmental Protection Act 1990.
Measure Noise with Decibel X
Download the Decibel X app to accurately measure noise levels in dB from your phone. Use it to record evidence of excessive construction noise to support your complaint.
