DIY nuisance
Environmental concerns may arise from noise, vibration, dust, smoke, etc. and the Council has specific powers under the Control of Pollution Act 1972 and the Environmental Protection Act 1990. The expectation under the legislation is that 'best practice means' (BPM) will be used to prevent nuisances occurring.
All contractors are required to apply BPM to their work programme and techniques, irrespective of their size or the work undertaken. This equally applies to householders undertaking DIY.
As a general rule construction and demolition work (either residential or commercial) should not take place outside of the following hours:
- Monday to Friday, 8am to 6pm
- Saturdays, 8am to 1pm
- no noisy work on Sundays or public holidays
There is scope for negotiation on these hours where there are particularly noise-sensitive properties involved, emergency or specialist work.
All vehicles and plants arriving at and leaving the site shall comply with the same restrictions on hours.
The main contractor shall be held responsible for informing all sub-contractors working on the site of the permitted hours of work.
It is useful to keep neighbours informed about what is happening and the contractor is expected to maintain regular contact throughout the course of works.
Failure to comply with the guidance
In the event that a contractor fails to comply with this guidance or other guidance offered by us, consideration will be given to formal action to prohibit or restrict the activities taking place including hours of work, plant and machinery used and work methods, etc.
Failure to adhere to any such notice may result in fines up to £20,000 if found guilty in a Court of Law.
Report a DIY nuisance
To report excessive DIY pollution nuisance, please use our online complaint form.