Strata Noise Rules You Need To Know This December
December is here, which means sunshine, end-of-year celebrations, long lunches, and visitors coming and going.
But in strata living, it also means something else: noise travels.
Shared walls, common areas, balconies, courtyards and stairwells can turn even small sounds into big frustrations. And while the holiday season is a time to celebrate, it’s also the time when noise complaints spike the most across WA.
Keeping your community happy doesn’t take much, just a little awareness and a neighbourly mindset. Here’s how you can enjoy the festive season without becoming “that neighbour.”
Be Proactive, Be Neighbourly
1. Communicate Early
Planning a gathering or having extra guests over? Let your neighbours know ahead of time.
A simple heads-up goes a long way toward building goodwill and preventing complaints before they happen.
2. Keep Noise Levels Reasonable
Parties happen, we get it. But be mindful during quiet hours and remember that sounds from appliances like washing machines, vacuums, or blenders can be surprisingly loud in strata settings.
Wind things down at a reasonable hour and avoid late-night noise.
3. Mind the Common Areas
Hallways, stairwells, and foyers act like amplifiers. Keep voices low and reduce activities that echo through shared spaces.
4. Supervise Children & Pets
Encourage quieter play, especially in the evenings.
If you have pets, make sure they aren’t barking or whining for extended periods.
5. Revisit Your By-Laws
Every strata has its own quiet hours and rules around noise, often stricter during the holiday season.
Knowing them helps you stay compliant and helps avoid unnecessary conflict.
What to Do If There’s a Noise Issue
Even with the best intentions, noise concerns can still pop up. Here’s the right order for addressing them:
1. Speak to Your Neighbour First
Most issues can be resolved with a friendly and calm conversation.
Sometimes people simply aren’t aware they’re causing a disturbance.
2. Contact Your Strata Manager or Council of Owners
If talking doesn’t work, escalate the issue.
Your strata manager can issue a formal reminder, letter, or even a fine if by-laws are being breached.
3. Contact Your Local Council
For ongoing or unreasonable noise, councils can investigate statutory nuisances and enforce local regulations.
4. Call the Police (for immediate or excessive noise)
Late-night parties, ongoing disturbances, or extremely loud noise may require police intervention.
They can issue a Noise Abatement Direction, which must be obeyed immediately, and remains in effect for 28 days.
Enjoy the Festive Season, and Help Others Enjoy Theirs
A harmonious strata community makes the holiday season better for everyone.
A little communication and consideration go a long way in keeping things smooth, happy, and neighbour-friendly.
Need Help Navigating Strata Rules or Noise Issues?
Contact Gary – 0477 520 269
strata.manager@contessi.com.au
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