Heat pumps are popping up in gardens across the UK. Government grants and net zero targets mean more households are switching from gas boilers. But what happens when your neighbour's new heat pump keeps you awake at night?
If informal conversations haven't resolved the problem, your next step is to put your complaint in writing using our free Noise Complaint Letter Builder.
You have legal protections against excessive noise. Actually enforcing them takes time and persistence.
How loud is too loud?
The Microgeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) sets noise standards for heat pumps, though these aren't absolute legal limits. Many councils use 42 decibels as a benchmark when measured at the nearest window of a neighbouring property. That's roughly the volume of a quiet library.
Some heat pumps exceed this, particularly older models or poorly installed units. Unlike boilers that cycle on and off, heat pumps often run continuously. The constant drone can be particularly noticeable at night when other sounds fade away.
Under the Environmental Protection Act 1990, noise becomes a statutory nuisance when it unreasonably interferes with your use of your home. Councils consider the volume, when it happens, how long it lasts, and your specific circumstances. Night-time noise between 11pm and 7am typically gets stricter scrutiny.
Your situation matters. If you work nights, have health conditions, or young children who can't sleep, mention this when making complaints. Keep detailed records of when the noise disturbs you and how it affects your daily life.
Start with your neighbour
Before involving authorities, talk to your neighbour. They might not know their heat pump is causing problems. Many units have quiet modes or can be programmed to run at reduced power overnight.
Recent installations often come with warranties that cover noise issues. Your neighbour may be more motivated to act if they understand you could escalate to the council.
If talking doesn't help, write to them. Describe when the noise occurs, how it sounds, and the impact on your household. Keep copies of all correspondence. This documentation becomes important if you need to involve authorities later.
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Most councils handle noise complaints through their environmental health teams. You'll typically need to complete an online form and keep a noise diary for two weeks. Some councils provide apps to record noise levels, though smartphone readings aren't always accepted as formal evidence.
Council officers usually try informal resolution first. They might contact your neighbour or arrange a meeting. If this fails, they can investigate whether a statutory nuisance exists. This process varies widely between councils and can take several months.
Officers may visit to witness the noise or install monitoring equipment. If they confirm a statutory nuisance, they can serve an abatement notice requiring your neighbour to reduce the noise. Ignoring an abatement notice is a criminal offence with fines up to £5,000.
Some councils offer mediation services to resolve neighbour disputes. Ask about this option when you first contact them.
Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.
Other routes
Section 82 of the Environmental Protection Act allows you to take your case directly to magistrates' court without waiting for the council. You'll need strong evidence and should consider legal advice. Court action costs money, and you risk paying your neighbour's legal fees if you lose.
For tenant neighbours, contact their landlord. Most tenancy agreements prohibit causing nuisance to neighbours. Social landlords often respond quickly to noise complaints.
Civil claims for private nuisance remain an option but involve significant time and expense. Most people find working through the council more practical.
Meanwhile, protect yourself
While pursuing complaints, take steps to reduce the impact. Heavy curtains and rugs can absorb some sound. White noise machines or fans might mask the heat pump's drone. Though you shouldn't need them in your own home, good earplugs can provide temporary relief.
Ask if the heat pump could be relocated or fitted with acoustic screening. Modern units tend to run quieter than older models. The Boiler Upgrade Scheme currently offers £5,000 towards heat pump installation, which might help if your neighbour needs to replace an older, noisier unit.
Some heat pump installations require planning permission, particularly near boundaries or in certain locations. Check with your local planning department whether your neighbour's installation followed proper procedures.
Fighting noise problems requires patience. Councils work slowly, especially when understaffed. Neighbours sometimes refuse to acknowledge problems. The process strains relationships and tests your resolve.
Most heat pump noise issues can be resolved through better installation, acoustic barriers, or quieter equipment. Document everything, follow procedures, and keep pushing. You don't have to accept sleepless nights as the price of someone else's green energy.
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