Noise from construction and demolition sites
Depending on the site and any relevant planning constraints, noisy construction and building works should, under normal circumstances, only take place between:
- Monday to Friday: 8.00am to 6pm
- Saturday: 8.30am to 2pm
No work should be carried out on Sundays or Bank holidays.
The workers can arrive 30 minutes before they start work.
If you have a problem the first thing to do is speak to the company doing the work. If this doesn't work let us know and we'll investigate.
Good practice guidelines for contractors
Good communication with residents can minimise complaints - People are more tolerant if they know when loud works are expected to start and finish.
The law requires that Best Practical Means (BPM) must be used to minimise noise. Contractors can obtain guidance from British Standard 5228 - "Noise and Vibration Control on Construction and Open Sites". The following guidance can help to reduce the impact of noise and vibration upon residents:
- keep to the normal working hours detailed above.
- inform local residents prior to particular noisy activities.
- use the quietest plant and equipment and keep it properly maintained.
- fixed items of construction plant should be electrically powered rather than diesel or petrol driven. Vehicles and mechanical plant should be fitted with effective exhaust silencers and when not in use should be shut down. Keep noisy plant and machinery as far as possible away from noise sensitive buildings.
- do not use radios on the site where it could cause disturbance.
Working outside normal hours may be permitted under exceptional circumstances.
Larger sites and developments will be subject to a Construction Environmental Management Plans (CEMP) which the developer submits at the planning stage prior to works commencing detailing how they will monitor, manage, and mitigate impact the local residents was agreed at the planning stage.
Report a noise nuisance using the link below:
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