1. Domestic Noise Problems and Remedies in France

1. 1.1. ‘Friendly Persuasion’
2. 1.2. Legal Advice Centre
3. 1.3. Mediation
4. 1.4. Mairie/Police Intervention
5. 1.5. Médiateur Pénale
6. 1.6. Tribunal d’instance
7. 1.7. Civil Proceedings

1.1. Domestic Noise Problems in France - Use of ‘Friendly Persuasion’

Clearly, as with most problems in life, we take it that you have tried, in the first instance, to resolve it on an amicable basis with your neighbour. This is not just common sense, but also an important stage in the process to later legal action.

Try and not get into a conflict with your neighbour before you have discussed the problem, as it is likely to be more difficult to resolve if relations have already deteriorated.

You should not necessarily assume that your neighbour is acting in bad faith, as this will sour the approach you are likely to take.

One approach is to invite your neighbour into your property to listen to the noise so that they can understand why you have raised the problem with them.

If this approach does not work then you should send a letter, by recorded delivery, setting out your complaint. Ensure you keep a copy of the receipt of delivery.

If you live in a block of flats, or co-ownership property, then you should contact the syndic, or managing agents, for the flats and seek their intervention.

If you are the landlord of a tenanted property then you are responsible for the actions of your tenants in relations with their neighbours, and serious noise nuisance is a ground for terminating the tenancy.