Loud music at the neighbours’ can quickly become unbearable, especially if you have an early morning meeting. But can you forbid your neighbours to party? Here is a summary of what you can do under the law.
- Tenants are allowed to hold parties in their apartment, but they must reduce the noise level between 10 PM and 6 AM.
- There are also noise regulations on Sundays and public holidays.
- Before a party, it is advisable to inform neighbors with a note in the stairwell.
- If the noise is too loud, neighbors should first be approached politely before calling the police.
- In poorly insulated apartments, noises such as flushing toilets may be audible; tips for noise reduction are available.
Are parties allowed as a tenant?
Of course, any tenant can have a party at their flat and enjoy a drink with friends while listening to music. The law cannot prohibit parties. However, it does define time slots during which the volume must be reduced:
- in the evening after 10pm until 6am
- on Sundays and public holidays
So, the question is obvious: How do you party without making any noise after 10pm?
The answer is common sense! If you party every weekend, all night, then you risk the police turning up more than once. But if you’re having a housewarming party and then celebrate your birthday a few weeks later, that’s pretty reasonable.
And if you’ve warned your neighbours with a note in the stairwell, you don’t have to go radio silent from 10.01 pm. You have just had a barbecue on your balcony, just make sure you don’t stay out late at night. Finish the evening inside your flat, close the windows and turn down the volume slightly.
Are you organising a party and the guitar is in the spotlight? Be careful with the use of a musical instrument in a rental building. After all, you are not supposed to play an instrument after 10 pm.
Noise from neighbours: insulation problem?
In some buildings, a simple flush can be heard in the flat next door. It is possible that the flat is poorly insulated. In this case, a few tips for your home can help you cope with the noise from your neighbours.
Are your neighbours partying and the noise is a bit loud?
Before you call the police directly and get into a fight with your neighbours, go and talk to them calmly. Ask them nicely to turn down the volume if it is late. But if you ever want to party, you’ll be glad you have tolerant neighbours because you let them party two or three times!
Frequently asked questions
1.) What are the legal grounds for noise disturbances caused by neighbors in Switzerland?
In Switzerland, the Swiss Code of Obligations (CO) regulates noise disturbances caused by neighbors. According to Art. 684 CO, neighbors have the right to undisturbed use of their property. Noise that exceeds reasonable levels can be considered a disturbance. Additionally, cantonal and municipal regulations apply, which set specific quiet hours. In case of ongoing problems, it is advisable to talk to the neighbor or consider legal action.
2.) How should I behave if my neighbors are having a loud party?
In Switzerland, you should first seek a conversation with your neighbors and politely point out the noise disturbance. If this does not help, you can contact the responsible municipal authority or the police for assistance. Be aware of local noise protection regulations, which usually set quiet hours. MOVU recommends resolving conflicts directly and amicably whenever possible.
3.) What measures can I take to report noise disturbances after 10 PM?
To report noise disturbances after 10 PM in Switzerland, you can first seek a conversation with the perpetrator. If this is not possible, contact the responsible municipality or the police. Many municipalities have specific regulations regarding nighttime quiet. MOVU recommends documenting all relevant information, such as date, time, and type of noise, to support your complaint.
4.) Are there specific regulations for party noise on weekends?
In Switzerland, there are specific regulations regarding noise protection that may vary by canton. Generally, it is common to observe a quiet period from 10 PM to 7 AM on weekends and public holidays. In residential areas, you should be particularly considerate of your neighbors. Repeated complaints may lead to legal consequences. It is advisable to communicate with neighbors in advance.
5.) How can I communicate with my neighbors to avoid future noise disturbances?
To avoid future noise disturbances, we recommend seeking a friendly and respectful conversation with your neighbors. Address your concerns directly and also listen to their perspective. In Switzerland, neighbors are often willing to find solutions. Additionally, you can inform yourself about local regulations for noise reduction that apply in your municipality. MOVU is happy to assist you with any further questions regarding neighborhood issues.
