Understanding the Impact of Noise

Noise complaints are one of the most common issues in shared living spaces. While occasional noise is normal, excessive disturbances can become stressful, affecting sleep, comfort, and overall well-being.

As part of Noise Action Week (21-25 May 2007), Mary Anne Bowring, MD of Ringley Group and creator of Leaseholdersupport.co.uk, highlights that nearly half of all complaints received by Ringley’s legal team relate to noise problems—some more serious than others.

A Shocking Case of Noise and Anti-Social Behavior

A disturbing case arose in a Ringley-managed estate in North London. A small first-floor flat was rented to a woman with a young child. Shortly after moving in, a much older man also took up residence.

Neighbours soon noticed:

• A constant stream of visitors knocking at all hours.
• Loud bedroom noises that made adjoining flats uncomfortable.
• Door banging, mobile phone calls, and anti-social behavior such as urinating in corridors.

It became clear that the man was acting as a pimp, and the property was being misused, disrupting the entire block.

The Responsibility of Flat Owners

In many cases, property owners may not even know they have rogue tenants. Even when tenants break their tenancy agreements, the leaseholder (property owner) is also in breach of their lease.

This could lead to:

• Legal action from a Leasehold Valuation Tribunal (LVT) or a court case.
• Significant fines or the potential forfeiture of the property.

Once the issue was identified, Ringley’s Estate Management Team took action to help the leaseholder remove the problematic tenant.

How Managing Agents Can Help

A good managing agent plays a crucial role in resolving issues like these. They:

• Identify the problem and inform the property owner.
• Explain the legal rights and eviction process under the Housing Act 1988.
• Work with legal teams to serve notices on problem tenants.
• Educate other leaseholders to prevent similar situations.

Resolving the Issue Through Legal Action

In this case, Ringley’s Legal Services Team helped the leaseholder:

• Serve an eviction notice under the Housing Act 1988.
• Coordinate communication with residents.
• Ensure proper legal procedures were followed.

By keeping all residents informed, including updates on the eviction process, the managing agent helped restore peace to the block.

Preventing Future Issues in Your Block

To avoid similar problems, leaseholders and managing agents should:
✔ Check tenant references thoroughly before renting out a flat.
✔ Monitor potential lease breaches, especially for illegal subletting.
✔ Take quick action if anti-social behavior is reported.
✔ Engage a professional managing agent to handle legal matters.

If noise issues or rogue tenants are affecting your property, visit www.leaseholdersupport.co.uk. They offer low-cost solutions for small blocks and full 24/7 property management for larger estates.