Being a good neighbour

Always keep noise to a reasonable level

You must be as quiet as possible between 11pm and 7:30am.

To do this you can:

• use the door handle or doorknob to close doors carefully rather than letting them slam
• fit a carpet instead of laminate, wood or ceramic flooring
• do louder tasks during the day or early evening or on a weekend, including things like DIY, vacuuming, using your washing machine, putting out rubbish or using bin chutes
• play music, TV and games at a suitable volume
• use your usual speaking voice
• keep communal areas, landings, hallways, stairs, corridors and lifts clear of rubbish and other items like mobility scooters, bicycles and furniture

If noise becomes an issue

You can speak to your neighbour about it and agree a way forward.

If that does not work or you feel uncomfortable approaching a neighbour, call 0191 525 5000 and select option 4. If you live in a sheltered housing or extra care scheme, contact your Scheme Manager.

Rubbish

You are responsible for your household and recycling bins. This includes leaving the bin out to be collected by 7.30am on the correct day and taking it back in on the same day.

You are also responsible for disposing of any large items or bulky packaging. If you live in a building with a communal entrance, you must never:

• leave items in a communal area
• force items down a bin chute

Sunderland City Council has a bulky waste collection service.

You can also use the free household waste and recycling centres in Pallion and Wrekenton.