Generally, it’s required that construction in residential areas in the UK begin from 8 am to 6 pm on Mondays to Fridays and 8 am to 1 pm on Saturdays. However, builders can report earlier to prepare the site for the day. You should always check with your local authorities to know whether there is any change in the timelines. This restriction limits any noise pollution that may result from the construction work. You should also check with the local council if you’re planning on doing any DIY work so that you can be informed of any restrictions put in place.
When to have construction on weekends and holidays
According to a builder from Streatham also know as Axe Construction suggest a standard time to begin construction on Saturday is from 8 am to 1 pm but the rules are more strict on Sundays. The rules vary in different areas so it’s advisable to always check with the local authorities on whether there are any restrictions in your area. Whether you’re having a loft conversion, renovation or a new build, you should check the local authority’s official website in your area for any updates on the timelines restrictions.
It’s also common to find most areas restricting construction work on Sundays and on bank holidays. The 1974 Control of Pollution Act determines some of the restrictions put in place to control noise coming from construction sites. Some of the noisy work that’s prohibited on Sundays and bank holidays includes the following:
- work on partition walls
- scaffolding erection and dismantling
- using hand tools such as hammers
- using plant equipment such as power saws and cement mixers
- using handheld power tools such as drills and saws
What to do if there’s noise from construction next door
Noise is inevitable during construction, however, if there’s too much noise outside the restricted hours you can first approach your neighbour and talk to them. There’s also the option of talking to the builders if the neighbour isn’t around. Whenever you’re having a construction project, you should find a qualified and reliable building contractor who is conversant with the building regulations and requirements to avoid getting in trouble with the local authorities. If you can’t resolve the issue with your neighbours or their builders, you can now involve the local council so that they can intervene.
The council can issue notice to the neighbours about the noisy construction and also advise them on the correct time to conduct the work without disturbing everyone. If they fail to adhere to the guidelines, they’ll be liable for a noise complaint fine of up to £20,000.
Your neighbours should inform you in advance about the construction or demolition work they plan on carrying out and also tell you the timelines they plan on carrying out the task. This will help you prepare for the inconvenience and know how long it’s meant to last.
Do time restrictions apply to DIY projects
There are no timeline restrictions for DIY projects so it’s upon you to ensure that everything is done at the right time. It’s also advisable to notify your neighbours so that they can know what you’re planning or that there will be some disturbance while the project is underway. This will help you avoid a statutory noise complaint fine.
The restriction on when construction or demolition work should take place helps control the level of noise pollution in residential areas. It’s advisable to adhere to the restrictions to avoid getting in trouble with the local authorities.