neighbour noise

Noise from neighbours? We measure objectively and provide evidence.

Noise from neighbours is one of the most common housing problems in the Netherlands. Each year about 700,000 Dutch residents experience neighbour noise. Footsteps on laminate, loud music, barking dogs, running children or slamming doors: it affects your sleep, health and enjoyment of your home. Without objective measurement data the discussion remains a tit-for-tat story.

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Why a professional sound measurement?

KGI Groep performs sound measurements compliant with NEN 5077 and NEN-EN-ISO 16283. We measure the actual sound insulation between your home and the neighbours' and test it against the legal requirements from the BBL (formerly Building Decree 2012). Measurement results are expressed in decibels and classified compliant with NEN 1070 on a scale from K=1 (very good) to K=5 (very poor). This way you know exactly where you stand and have an objective reference point.

When does a sound measurement make sense?

A sound measurement makes sense when you want to prove that the sound insulation does not meet the standards, or when you want to prove unlawful nuisance. The report is legally usable in court (article 5:37 Dutch Civil Code), before the dispute resolution committee of the homeowners' association, the rental commission or your landlord. Many clients use the report to claim a rent reduction, to push the homeowners' association to take measures or to hold the contractor liable for poorly insulated new construction.

What exactly do we measure?

We measure both impact noise (footsteps, furniture, children playing) and airborne noise (voices, music, TV). We also measure installation noise (water pipes, drainage, lift) if relevant. Every measurement is performed with certified Class 1 measurement equipment (Svantek SV 971A).

Your rights in case of noise disturbance

Under article 5:37 of the Dutch Civil Code an owner may not cause unlawful nuisance. The judge assesses this based on nature, severity, duration and avoidability. A measurement report compliant with NEN 5077 is the strongest evidence. In rental housing you have the right to peaceful enjoyment (article 7:204 Dutch Civil Code). If your landlord does not address the disturbance you can claim a rent reduction at the rental commission.

NEN 5077

Does your insurance reimburse the cost?

Many legal expenses insurances reimburse (part of) the cost of a sound measurement in a dispute. We deliver a quote you can submit to your insurer. KGI Groep regularly cooperates with DAS Rechtsbijstand, Achmea, ARAG and other insurers.

What do you receive after the measurement?

A professional PDF report with measurement results per frequency band, frequency graphs, standards testing against the BBL, NEN 1070 classification and concrete recommendations for improvement. The measurement takes approximately 3 to 4 hours on location. The report is delivered within 10 working days.

Contact

Consultation or direct quote

Schedule a free consultation or request a direct quote via the form. We respond within one business day.

+31 (0)20 808 70 90

info@kgigroep.nl

Keizersgracht 241
1016 EA Amsterdam