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Emergency

Quiet hours and noise: when the neighbor must keep quiet

Noise must stay within the limits of what is reasonable. Night quiet (usually 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.) and, depending on the municipality, midday and Sunday quiet must be observed. You do not have to tolerate substantial, locally unusual noise disturbances; a noise log helps to document them.

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You do not have to tolerate substantial noise impairments that exceed the locally customary level (§ 906 BGB). You can demand cessation; night quiet is especially protected.
Specific quiet hours (night, midday, Sunday quiet) follow from state immission-protection law, municipal statutes, and the house rules. Children's noise, by contrast, is especially privileged and as a rule has to be accepted.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Keep a noise log

    Note the date, time, type, and duration of the noise over a period, this is your most important piece of evidence.

  2. 2

    2. Speak with the neighbor

    First seek a conversation and point out the quiet hours in a matter-of-fact way.

  3. 3

    3. Demand in writing

    If that does not help, demand in writing that the quiet hours be observed and that the disturbance cease.

  4. 4

    4. Escalate

    In the case of continuing noise, a complaint to the landlord (for rented apartments), the public order office, or an action for cessation come into consideration.

How to spot the scam

  • Regular noise during night quiet (10 p.m. to 6 a.m.).
  • Ongoing disturbing work on Sundays and public holidays.
  • The neighbor does not respond to matter-of-fact requests.

Frequently asked questions

Which quiet hours apply?

Night quiet as a rule applies from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Midday and Sunday quiet follow from state law, municipal statutes, and the house rules. During these times, avoidable noise is to be refrained from.

What can I do about a loud neighbor's noise?

Keep a noise log, speak with the neighbor, and demand in writing that the quiet hours be observed. If that does not help, a complaint to the landlord, the public order office, or an action for cessation come into consideration (§ 906 BGB).

Do I have to accept children's noise?

As a rule, yes. Children's noise from a residential neighborhood is legally privileged and in principle does not count as a harmful environmental effect. It is to be accepted within the customary scope, even if it is sometimes disturbing.

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.