Noise from Car Alarms and Building Alarms
A car alarm is a useful tool
to protect your valuable property, but when the alarm sounds
regularly or for long periods it can cease being a benefit and
become a nuisance.
Car alarms can be activated when the car
battery is running flat, in strong winds or even when cats jump on
them. If your car alarm keeps going off, or will not switch off
automatically after 20 minutes, it can cause a noise nuisance to
your neighbours. To avoid this you should:
- have the alarm system serviced and repaired by a competent
alarm engineer
- have a cut out fitted to the alarm system and audible warning
device that will silence the alarm not more than 20 minutes after
the first sound
- alternatively, disconnect the alarm system until it has been
repaired
- always ensure that your windows are fully closed when locking
the car as wind entering the car can easily set off the alarm.
For persistent car alarms we will try to find
the owner, but failing that we serve a notice and arrange for a
contractor to disable the alarm.
Building alarms and audible intruder
alarms can cause considerable noise disturbance if left to
sound excessively. In these circumstances we can also serve a
notice, but before we can enter the premises to disable the alarm
we must first obtain a magistrates' warrant. This adds to the time
taken to deal with the problem.
If you have an intruder alarm installed, you
are required to ensure that it meets BS 4737 for the installation,
operation and maintenance of the alarm and that the alarm has a 20
minute cut-off device fitted, however new installations need to
consider British Standard EN50131/PD6662 which requires a 15-minute
cut-off device.
Environmental Health also keeps a register of
key holders for many premises and private dwellings and if you have
an audible intruder alarm fitted you are encouraged to keep your
details up to date with us.
Information leaflet - Noise from Intruder
Alarms ,
Contact Environmental Health to make a complaint.
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