For residential environments, the accepted decibel level is lower. Any noise exceeding 70 dB is considered disturbing. Residential limits usually start at 60 or 55 dB (the equivalent noise of a regular vacuum cleaner). Time limits usually apply after 10 pm and until 7 am.
During the daytime (between 7 am and 10 pm), the maximum allowable noise levels for residential areas are generally around 55 decibels (dB) for indoor activities and 65 dB for outdoor activities. These levels are considered to be reasonable and should not cause any significant disturbance to neighboring properties.
Under this act, night hours are defined from 11 pm to 7 am, and councils have the authority to issue warning notices if noise exceeds permitted levels during this time. The acceptable noise levels are: 34 dBA (decibels adjusted) if the background noise level is no more than 24 dBA.
How to Deal with Loud Upstairs Neighbors Research Your Local Noise Laws. Politely Approach Your Noisy Neighbor. Noise-Proof Your Space. Get Other Affected Neighbors Involved. How to File a Noise Complaint. How to NOT Handle Loud Upstairs Neighbors. Move, as a Last Resort.
Document the Behavior : Keep a record of the incidents, noting dates, times, and descriptions of the noise or rude behavior. Communicate Calmly : If you feel comfortable, approach your neighbor and address the issue directly. Set Boundaries : If direct communication doesn't work, set clear boundaries.
If It Sounds Too Loud, It Is Too Loud Decibels are the unit of measurement for sound, abbreviated dB. Sounds at or below 70 dB are considered safe for our hearing. That's the sound of a normal conversation between two people.
Most local noise ordinances designate "quiet hours"—for example, from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. on weekdays and until 8 or 9 a.m. on weekends. So, running a power mower might be permitted at 10 a.m. on Saturday, but not at 7 a.m. Some universally disturbing sounds are commonly banned or restricted.
To record it effectively you'll need a boundary or pressure zone mic -- or a contact mic -- fixed to the ceiling (or maybe a wall), and recorded with something that has a flat resposne down to 10Hz or so. There's lots of things that would do a reasonable job... but specific advice will depend on your budget.