Can a resident of a strata unit start an electric treadmill at 5.00am and disturb neighbours with the noise. What are the rules about noise. – Suxanne, NSW

Q: Can a resident of a strata unit start an electric treadmill at 5.00am and disturb neighbours with the noise. What are the rules about noise.

 

Noise disturbances as a result of your strata property neighbours can be handled in a number of ways.

Sometimes the best way to resolve issues with neighbours and enhance your community living experience is by having an open communication with them. If you haven’t already, try talking to your neighbour and letting them know that their early morning exercises are causing a noise disturbance. Most times, your neighbours may simply be unaware that they are causing a disturbance and are happy to compromise.

If a conclusion cannot be reached through communication, check your strata by-laws and speak to your strata committee. They should have an internal mediation process to solve the matter. You can also speak to your strata manager, who may also be able to provide mediation. If your strata by-laws do not mention noise issues, or if the existing by-laws are not clear or specific enough, you may choose to have the by-law reviewed and updated. For more information on this please visit https://kempspetersonslegal.com.au/bylaws/

For more serious issues, you can take the matter to NCAT for mediation: https://www.ncat.nsw.gov.au/

For more information on noise issues, see our articles on hHow to deal with noise in a strata property as well as taking formal steps to deal with noise in strata.