Noise complaints in strata are best handled by following a clear, step-by-step process — start with respectful communication, check your by-laws, document the issue, and escalate through the body corporate if necessary.

Key Facts: Noise Complaints in Strata 

• Residents must not create noise that unreasonably interferes with others’ use and enjoyment of their lot  

• Most noise disputes are resolved through direct communication first  

• By-laws set the enforceable rules around acceptable behaviour in a scheme  

• The body corporate is responsible for enforcing by-laws, not mediating personal disputes  

• Formal action may include contravention notices, conciliation, or adjudication  

• Noise complaints are one of the most common issues in strata communities  

• Across Australian strata legislation, noise complaints are generally assessed using a combination of subjective, objective, and contextual factors to determine whether the noise constitutes an unreasonable nuisance.

Who This Applies To 

This article applies to: 

• Lot owners  

• Tenants  

• Body corporate committee members  

• Building managers  

If you live or work in a strata or community titles scheme, understanding how to manage noise complaints is essential. 

What Is a Noise Complaint in Strata? 

A noise complaint arises when sound from one lot or common property unreasonably interferes with another resident’s peaceful enjoyment of their property. 

In strata, this is typically governed by: 

• By-laws – the rules that regulate behaviour within the scheme  

• Body corporate legislation

By-laws are legally enforceable rules created by a body corporate to manage how people live together in a shared environment. They follow the relevant legislation for the state in which the scheme is located.

What Is Considered “Unreasonable” Noise? 

While local councils may measure noise nuisance using certain decibel levels, there is no single decibel threshold that defines unreasonable noise under legislation. Instead, noise is generally assessed based on its impact.

Noise is more likely to be considered unreasonable if it: 

• Happens regularly or continuously  

• Occurs late at night or early in the morning  

• Disrupts sleep, work, or daily living  

• Continues after a request to stop  

For example: 

• Occasional footsteps or general living noise → usually acceptable  

• Loud music late at night → likely unreasonable  

• Constant barking or mechanical noise → may breach by-laws  

How to Approach Noise Complaints (Step-by-Step Guide) 

Handling noise complaints correctly is critical. Skipping steps or escalating too quickly can make the situation worse. 

Step 1: Speak to Your Neighbour 

Assume they don’t know. Start with a respectful conversation. 

• Approach them calmly  

• Explain how the noise is affecting you  

• Give them the opportunity to adjust  

Many disputes are resolved at this stage, as the neighbour may not realise there is an issue. 

If Difficult Confrontation is a Concern

Confronting your neighbours about disruptive behaviour can feel uncomfortable, especially if you are concerned about conflict or confrontation. However, there are ways to raise the issue anonymously. Writing a letter outlining the behaviour and its impact can be a safe and effective approach. Some example letters for different scenarios can be downloaded through the links below.

• Noise Complaint Template – Barking Dog
• Noise Complaint Template – Loud Music
• Noise Complaint Template – Loud Gatherings
• Noise Complaint Template – Loud Children
• Noise Complaint Template – Loud Argument
• Noise Complaint Template – TV

Step 2: Check Your By-Laws 

If the issue continues, review your scheme’s by-laws. 

Look for rules relating to: 

• Noise restrictions and quiet hours  

• Renovations and flooring requirements  

• Pets and nuisance behaviour  

Understanding the by-laws helps determine whether a breach has occurred. 

Step 3: Keep a Record of the Noise 

If the problem persists, begin documenting it. 

Record: 

• Dates and times  

• Type of noise  

• Duration and frequency  

• How it impacts you  

Clear records provide important evidence if the matter escalates. 

Step 4: Submit a Formal Complaint 

If self-resolution is unsuccessful, contact your body corporate or strata manager. 

Provide: 

• A clear summary of the issue  

• Your documented records  

• Any relevant by-law references  

At this stage, the committee may review the matter and decide whether action is required. 

Step 5: By-Law Enforcement 

If a breach is identified, the body corporate may issue a contravention notice. 

A contravention notice is a formal notice requiring a resident to stop breaching the by-laws within a specified timeframe. 

This step gives the individual an opportunity to comply before further action is taken. 

Step 6: Dispute Resolution 

If the issue remains unresolved, it can be escalated to formal dispute resolution. 

This may include: 

• Conciliation

• Adjudication (or VCAT in Victoria)

This should always be considered a last resort. 

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

Noise complaints can escalate quickly if handled incorrectly. 

Avoid: 

• Confrontational or aggressive communication  

• Making complaints without evidence  

• Skipping the self-resolution step  

• Expecting immediate enforcement without due process  

Strata disputes require a structured approach, and following the correct process improves outcomes. 

What If the Noise Comes from Common Property? 

Not all noise originates from a resident. In some cases, it may come from shared infrastructure such as: 

• Pool pumps  

• Lifts  

• Ventilation systems  

If this occurs: 

• The body corporate may be responsible  

• The issue should still be reported and documented  

• Further investigation (such as acoustic assessment) may be required  

Even building-related noise can be considered unreasonable if it interferes with residents’ enjoyment of their property. 

Case Study: When Noise Escalates 

In one strata scheme, ongoing disputes arose due to hard flooring installed without proper acoustic treatment. The noise transferred significantly to the lot below, resulting in formal complaints and eventual enforcement action. 

The outcome required: 

• Rectification of the flooring  

• Compliance with acoustic standards  

• Increased awareness of by-law obligations  

This highlights the importance of considering noise impacts before making changes within a lot. 

FAQs 

1. Can I make a noise complaint anonymously? 

Most formal processes require identifiable complaints, particularly if enforcement action is taken. 

2. What time is noise considered unreasonable? 

While there is no universal rule, late-night and early-morning noise is more likely to be considered unreasonable. 

3. Can the body corporate fine someone for noise? 

Body corporates do not issue fines but can enforce compliance through formal processes such as contravention notices and legal action. 

4. What if my neighbour ignores my request? 

You can escalate the matter through the body corporate and, if necessary, formal dispute resolution. 

5. Does everyday living noise count as a breach? 

Normal living noise is generally acceptable unless it becomes excessive or unreasonably disruptive. 

What Should You Do Next? 

If you are experiencing ongoing noise issues, the most effective approach is to act early and follow the correct process. Starting with a simple conversation and progressing through the appropriate channels can prevent disputes from escalating. 

If you need guidance on managing a noise complaint or enforcing by-laws, the SSKB team can help you navigate the process and achieve a practical outcome. 

👉 Contact SSKB today or speak with your Community Manager for support. 

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