Saw mill noise/other diy equipment from immediate neighbours.

dannie · 16 May 2020 at 9:13AM

This has been for over 6 weeks approximately. Can be heard in and out of the house almost daily for 6 - 7 hours. Existing health conditions being affected plus (in my opinion) developing others. Pandemic concerns making it more difficult to deal with all this. Any suggestions of what to do?

Thanks.

Splatfoot · 16 May 2020 at 9:28AM

Have you spoken to them? You may get relief knowing when the noise is going to abate. I don't think there's much you can do unless they're working at midnight or something. It won't be forever. People do seem to be using this time to do work on their houses/gardens. It's an ideal opportunity. Would you normally be out at work?

neilmcl · 16 May 2020 at 10:24AM

It's not really surprising that many people are now taking the time to do up their houses, it's just unfortunate that you happen to be home during the day when this is going on, normally I assume this wouldn't be an issue for you. In all fairness there's little you can do really if it's only happening during the day, as suggested I'd speak to them to find out how long their work is likely to take to completion.

dannie · 16 May 2020 at 10:43AM

Thanks for your reply Splatfoot. No, not spoken to them. Do not feel that it is worth it due to "bad vibes" that I have picked up from them. I understand what you mean about potential "relief". Somebody I know guesses that their garden work/noise could be for quite a few weeks yet. This work is probably due to lockdown/furlough.

Hard to think ahead that it will end some day but yes, I see what you mean. No, wouldn't be normally out at work myself but due to the pandemic, have very little outdoor "escape".

dannie · 16 May 2020 at 10:54AM

neilmcl - thanks for comments.

spiro · 17 May 2020 at 9:00AM

If it is within the hours the council allow builders to work then there is not a lot you can do. Also note the governement has just asked councils to extend the hours builders can work until 9pm to allow them to catch up with lost time.

neilmcl · 17 May 2020 at 9:20AM

spiro said:

If it is within the hours the council allow builders to work then there is not a lot you can do. Also note the governement has just asked councils to extend the hours builders can work until 9pm to allow them to catch up with lost time.

I think it was more about giving building sites the flexibility to stagger start times for workers.

dannie · 17 May 2020 at 11:33AM

spiro and neilmc - It is falling within the hours. They are neighbours; not "builders" though. Yes, heard about the governments' decision about builders hours. It will be interesting to hear how nearby residents cope/respond if their residence is closely located to the site.

Thanks for the replies.

Fire_Fox · 18 May 2020 at 3:16PM

Wax or silicone ear plugs are far superior to foam ear plugs, in terms of comfort and efficacy. Ask at a decent pharmacy.

If you are struggling with anxiety generally, book a telephone consultation with your family doctor. Many practices are actually quieter than usual so do not think that you cannot 'bother' them.

Scientifically proven to help reduce anxiety is a host of self care stuff: diet modification, regular physical activity, relaxation/ brief meditation/ deep breathing exercises.

Food wise ensure your diet is properly balanced and very varied, wholefood. Include plenty of oily fish (for long chain omega-3s, vitamin D3) and mineral rich foods (beans, lentils, seeds, nuts). And dark chocolate or cocoa powder (for magnesium).

HTH!

dannie · 19 May 2020 at 3:54PM

Fire_Fox - Thanks for your suggestions.

Unfortunately, the wax and silicone ear plugs only manage to reduce the noise by around 35 decibels, which takes the edge off their gardening equipment noise.

I have wondered whether to speak to my doctor about the affects on my health. Also, am trying different methods to reduce "anxiety" and am paying close attention to my diet.