A woman has taken to social media to express her frustration over what she describes as 'selfish' neighbours who are ruining her summer garden experience. In a TikTok video, she is seen looking disheartened while sitting in her garden as loud music from a neighbouring property blares in the background.
The Complaint
The woman claims she cannot use her garden because her neighbours repeatedly play music at high volume, drowning out the sounds of nature. 'Another day spoiled by noise pollution neighbours,' she wrote on her video. In the caption, she added: 'I miss hearing the birds.' The track 'Internet Girl' by Katseye could be heard playing from speakers in the neighbour's garden.
Divided Opinions
Commenters on the post were split. Some sympathised, sharing their own experiences with noisy neighbours. One said: 'I feel your pain. My neighbours think it's acceptable to let their kids out in the garden at 6:30am, and they scream! Don't get me wrong, I love kids, I've had two. But you have to teach them consideration.' Another added: 'The constant low-level stress that bad neighbours cause is so detrimental to your well-being. I feel for you.'
However, many argued the woman had no right to dictate how others enjoy their gardens. Playing music loudly is not an offence provided it does not breach noise regulations. One commenter said: 'I get it, but also, you can't stop people from listening to music in their own garden. If you have a problem with how loud it is, then do the adult thing and go ask them politely to just turn it down a bit. If they don't listen and continue, then make a noise complaint to the police, instead of complaining about it on TikTok.' Another added: 'Everyone enjoys the sunshine differently. Personally, I sing along to all my neighbours' music, and I have five different gardens surrounding mine.'
UK Laws on Noisy Neighbours
In the UK, councils must investigate complaints about noise that could be a 'statutory nuisance' under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. For noise to be a statutory nuisance, it must unreasonably and substantially interfere with the use or enjoyment of a home or injure health. Councils handle complaints about loud music, barking dogs, and similar issues, but not noise from traffic, planes, political demonstrations, or military premises.
Noise laws are stricter at night. Between 11pm and 7am, councils can issue warning notices for noise above permitted levels, even if it is not a statutory nuisance. Failure to comply without a reasonable excuse can lead to a fixed penalty notice of up to £110 or prosecution. To file a complaint, residents should visit their local council's website.
