How do you measure noise level from Neighbours?

Noise from neighbors is a common source of annoyance and can negatively impact one’s quality of life. Studies show that noise pollution ranks among the top complaints for city dwellers worldwide (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8345718/). With more people living in close proximity in apartments and densely populated neighborhoods, neighbor noise has become an unavoidable issue that many struggle to resolve amicably.

Excessive noise like loud music, parties, remodeling projects or barking dogs can cause serious discomfort. Research suggests noise annoyance is linked to poorer sleep quality, cognitive impairment and elevated stress levels (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7857498/). Understanding the legal noise limits and options for mitigating bothersome neighbor sounds is key to maintaining one’s wellbeing.

Legal Noise Limits

Most cities and towns have local ordinances that limit allowable noise levels coming from a neighbor’s property. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the average allowable daytime noise level is 55 decibels, while the average allowable nighttime level is 45 decibels [1].

These ordinances are in place to prevent noise pollution from significantly impacting quality of life. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has set permissible noise exposure limits at 85-90 decibels over an 8 hour period before hearing protection is required [2]. Exposure to noise levels above 70 decibels over extended periods can result in hearing loss and other health issues.

If you suspect a neighbor is violating local noise ordinances, it’s important to measure and document the decibel levels to support your claim. Contact your local government to learn about specific daytime and nighttime decibel limits in your area.

Using a Sound Level Meter

A sound level meter is a device used to measure the loudness of sound around you. There are a few different types of sound level meters:

• Handheld meters – These are portable devices that can be easily carried and used to take spot measurements.
• Smartphone apps – There are various apps like Decibel X that use your phone’s microphone to measure loudness.
• Professional grade meters – More sophisticated meters used for official noise monitoring by groups like OSHA.

To use a sound level meter properly:

1. Choose an appropriate location to take the measurement, away from other loud noises.
2. Set the meter to the right parameters like A-weighting which mimics human hearing.
3. Hold the meter at around head level and point it towards the noise source.
4. Take measurements for a consistent interval, at least 30 seconds is recommended.
5. Note the average and peak decibel readings.

Refer to the product manual for your specific meter for detailed operating instructions. Proper technique is important for accurate, reliable noise level measurements (1).

(1) https://decibelpro.app/blog/how-to-use-a-sound-level-meter/

Measuring Decibel Levels

The decibel scale is used to measure the intensity of sound. Decibels (dB) measure the fluctuations in air pressure caused by sound waves. The quietest sound humans can hear is 0 dB, while 140+ dB can cause immediate harm to hearing.

Average vs peak decibel levels matter when measuring noise. Average dB shows the noise level over time, while peak dB captures short loud bursts. Both metrics are important – average dB indicates constant background noise, while peak dB reflects disruptive spikes above that level.¹

To get an accurate noise reading, measure average dB over a period of time (e.g. 30 mins). Also record peak dB to identify any extremely loud events. Keep a log tracking both average and peak dB levels to demonstrate the ongoing impact.

Documenting the Noise

It’s important to record evidence of the bothersome noise coming from your neighbors. This documentation can support any complaints you make or legal action you pursue down the line. There are two main ways to document noise:

Audio/Video Recording

You can make audio or video recordings to capture evidence of the noise. According to Nolo’s article “Noisy Neighbors and Noise Ordinance Laws,” it’s legal in most states to record audio of noise coming into your own home[1]. When doing so, be sure to include commentary noting the time, date, and type of noise. Video recording from your own property may also be allowed, but check local regulations first.

Noise Logs

Keeping a detailed log of incidents can also help document your neighbor’s noise level and frequency. As FindLaw recommends, your log should include dates, times, noise details, and duration[2]. Notes about sleep disruption or other effects of the noise help demonstrate its unreasonable impact. This log can establish a pattern of excessive noise over time.

Impact on Health

Noise pollution can have significant negative effects on human health. According to research from Harvard University, the more people are bothered by noise, the greater the health risks. Exposure to excessive noise can impact hearing, sleep, and stress levels.

Hearing loss is one of the most common effects. Prolonged exposure to loud noises above 85 decibels can permanently damage the delicate hair cells in the inner ear that transmit sounds to the brain. Even short-term exposure to very loud noises like fireworks or concerts can lead to temporary hearing loss.

Noise at night severely disrupts sleep. Studies show exposure to nighttime noise pollution is linked with poor sleep quality, more nighttime awakenings, and shorter sleep duration. Lack of sleep impairs concentration, memory, mood, and performance. It also weakens the immune system and increases risks for obesity, depression, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Noise triggers the body’s stress response. Chronic activation of the stress response from noise pollution can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety, irritability, and other stress-related illnesses. The World Health Organization has specifically cited noise-induced stress as a major environmental health concern.

Approaching Your Neighbor

When dealing with a noisy neighbor, the first step should always be a friendly discussion. Knock on their door during the day and have a polite conversation about the noise. Explain how it affects you and see if compromises can be made, like keeping noise down during certain hours. Say you want to be good neighbors and work together on a solution. According to an article on Quora, “If there is loud noise going on, contact the police while it is occurring. Let them handle it.”

If a friendly talk doesn’t work, suggest mediation. A neutral third party mediator can help both sides communicate better and find middle ground. The mediator is not there to take sides, just facilitate discussion. Check if your city or local dispute resolution center offers free or low-cost mediation for neighbor disputes. This is preferable to letting the bad feelings escalate or get authorities involved right away. According to ApartmentsforBulls.com, “Worried about a neighbor who’s barking dog or loud music keeps you up at night? This article will demonstrate how to diplomatically get them to quiet down.”

Seeking Legal Action

If neighbor noise continues to be an issue after trying to resolve it directly, you may need to pursue legal action for a resolution. There are a couple options to consider:

Police Complaints

You can call the non-emergency police number to file a noise complaint if the noise violates local noise ordinances, especially for loud noise happening late at night. The police can issue warnings or citations to the noisy neighbors (source). However, this route may only provide temporary relief if the neighbors resume the noise after receiving a warning.

Lawsuits

Taking your neighbors to court in a private nuisance lawsuit is an option if the noise is excessive, consistent, and significantly impacts your ability to enjoy living in your home. You would need evidence like recordings of the noise and diary logs documenting the times and types of noise. If successful, the court could order your neighbors to stop the noise or pay monetary damages (source). However, lawsuits can be time-consuming and expensive.

Soundproofing

One of the most effective ways to reduce noise from neighbors is by soundproofing your home. This involves adding materials that block sound waves from transmitting through walls, floors, ceilings, doors and windows. Some common soundproofing methods include:

Insulation – Adding insulation like fiberglass batts or blown-in cellulose in walls and ceilings can absorb sound and prevent it from passing through. Make sure to seal any gaps or cracks around outlets with acoustical caulk. Insulation will need to meet fire code regulations. (1)

Soundproof drywall – Using special soundproofing drywall which contains mass loaded vinyl or isolating clips can block more sound. Staggering studs between walls also helps decouple them. Green glue is another option to install between drywall layers. (2)

Windows – Double or triple pane windows with large air gaps between panes can reduce noise infiltration. Heavy curtains, acoustic window film and well-fitted frames also help. Exterior storm windows provide an extra barrier. (1)

Seal gaps – Seal any cracks, gaps or openings in walls, floors, ceilings, electrical outlets, vents, pipes or window frames with acoustic caulk or weather stripping to prevent sound leaks.

Acoustic panels – Installing acoustic foam or soundproofing panels helps absorb and diffuse sound waves rather than transmitting vibrations through hard surfaces. Panels work best when combined with other soundproofing methods.

With proper installation using the right materials, soundproofing can significantly reduce noise from neighbors. However, it does require an investment of both time and money. Consulting an acoustic specialist can help determine the best solutions for your specific situation.

(1) https://food52.com/blog/25038-home-soundproofing-hacks

(2) https://resonics.co.uk/will-acoustic-panels-help-with-noisy-neighbours/

When to Move

Moving should be a last resort option after you’ve exhausted all other avenues for dealing with noisy neighbors. Some signs it may be time to move include:

https://www.reddit.com/r/ontario/comments/ys26ng/has_anyone_ever_moved_due_to_noisy_neighbours/

You’ve tried approaching your neighbors multiple times, leaving notes, contacting the landlord/building management etc. but the noise continues unabated. Your neighbors are unwilling or unable to compromise or reduce the noise to reasonable levels.

https://www.mymovingreviews.com/move/moving-because-of-bad-neighbors/

The noise is greatly impacting your quality of life, sleep, health, work, relationships or mental wellbeing. You dread coming home each day. The noise makes you consistently unhappy and stressed in your own home.

The noise exceeds legal limits, but your neighbors refuse to change and authorities have not helped resolve the issue after repeated complaints.

You’ve tried various soundproofing options and nothing seems to block the noise sufficiently for you to live comfortably.

Ultimately, if the noise makes your home unlivable for you, and you see no other solution or compromise possible, then moving may be your best recourse to restore your quality of life.