You’re Not Alone — And We Can Help
If your home feels more like a shared space due to noise from next door, you’re not alone. Many residents face this issue, especially in period properties with thin or uninsulated party walls. Whether it’s loud conversations, music, or footsteps, unwanted noise can disrupt your peace and privacy.
Noise through party walls typically falls into two categories:
Both types can be mitigated with the right approach.
1. Enhance Wall Insulation
Soundproofing your party wall is any addition that helps reduce sound transmission. Options include:
Acoustic plasterboard- Provides mass and reduces the effect of sound resonance.
2. Mass-Loaded Vinyl (MLV): This leads to the disabling of transmitted sound.
Resilient Channels: Decouple the drywall from the studs to limit sound transmission.
3. Seal Gaps and Cracks
Wider gaps can indeed let even more noise in. Spread acoustic sealant on the edges, sockets and joints to tighten your barrier.
4. Consider Structural Changes
In more extreme instances, actually modifying the structure, by way of example, doubling up with a second layer of drywall or maybe completing acoustic batts can make a world of difference. These solutions are more invasive and may require a professional assessment.
If your neighbour is undertaking construction work that affects the party wall, they are legally required to serve a Party Wall Notice. As an adjoining owner, you have the right to:
At Jason Edworthy Party Wall Surveyors, we can guide you through this process, ensuring your rights are protected and that noise concerns are addressed.
What is your problem with me hearing my neighbours through the walls?
This noise can transfer from room to room through thin construction, gaps, or a lack of insulation. Both airborne sounds (voices, TV, music) and impact sounds (walking around, moving furniture) can get through poorly insulated party walls. This is especially true of older buildings and period properties.
Do you hear noise coming from neighbouring properties?
However, a large part of sound transfer is normal for flats or terraced houses. Constant or disruptive noise, on the other hand, may be a sign of a party wall issue that could benefit from room soundproofing.
How do I get rid of the noise from my neighbours?
You can:
Install soundproofing or motion interior linings.
Close any gaps and cracks in the walls, skirting boards and around electrical outlets.
Use barrier material such as mass-loaded vinyl or resilient channels.
A party wall surveyor who specialises in this field can provide professional advice on the best way forward.
Am I allowed to sue noisy neighbours?
If construction or structural changes are causing noise, sound from work covered by the Party Wall Act gives you rights. In normal circumstances, the law requires you to try to talk to your neighbour first. If needed, a surveyor can mediate or steer you through legal routes.
When do I need to appoint a party wall surveyor?
If the noise is from works or structural alterations, or if you are unsure of your rights, then it would be prudent to employ a surveyor. They will be able to assess the walls, suggest remedies, and ensure you are properly up to date with the Party Wall Act.
Will soundproofing require major renovations?
Not always. Others, such as acoustic plasterboard or filling cracks, are relatively harmless fixes. A professional should assess wall decoupling, layering, or other intensive methods.
Don’t let noise disrupt your home life. Contact Jason Edworthy Party Wall Surveyors Gillingham for professional advice and assistance. We’ll help you understand your options and take the necessary steps to restore quiet to your home.
