Obs residents are experienced noise warriors

Observatory has many issues but one gripe that seems to constantly rear it's head is noise.

Now usually, community structures such as the OBSID, OCA, law enforcement and even the police, can expect noise issues involving a resident and a loud pub, club or cafe.

But what if your disturbance doesn't come from the Lower Main Road party strip. What if it comes from your very own house? This is the exact problem the OCA and OBSID were recently faced with.

It started with a resident contacting local leaders for help when the noise coming from the upstairs room in her house became unbearable.

"My upstairs [room mates] are very rude and always play loud music in my sleeping time. I always feel disturbed by them... What should I do now? Should I complain to authorities or take revenge?" the complaint read.

Immediately the complaint received a multitude of replies ranging from questions to describe the noise to consulting a neighbour. The many responses by residents, knowledgeable in the art of tackling Obs noise, did not encourage revenge.

But it did show that there isn't one fix to dealing with noise disturbances.

So then, what do you do if your "sleeping time" is disturbed by noise?

Well if the array of responses is anything to go by, maybe we can jot down a quick list of what to do.

Firstly, information is key. It will come in handy when reporting the problem. Information you may need to provide includes your address, are you the owner or tenant, are the people causing the noises the owner or tenant, who is your landlord? Keep a log of exactly when the noise takes place.

Secondly, get to know the City's by-law regarding noise and disturbances. Download the by-law documents from the City's website or contact the OCA or OBSID to clue you in.

Keep the law enforcement's number on speed dial. Should the noise be excessive and on-going, they're the ones you need to call.

Ask your neighbours, or other room mates, to vouch for you. Or better yet, get them to complain too!

Other things you could try include earplugs, sleeping tablets or as one person suggested "a good joint is the way to go?!"

Ultimately you have to realise that these processes can be long and tiresome.

And while we can't be expected to deal with such noise disturbances, it may be a better idea to just talk to your neighbours, room mates or that pub to keep it down.

Nothing beats good old neighbourliness.

If that doesn't work, then maybe you should rehash those revenge ideas.