The workday was long and hard and the journey home was not pleasant as well. And now, the construction noise surrounding nearby properties greets you. Now what? Here’s the good news. Here’s how to file a construction noise complaint in Dubai.
Construction Noise In Dubai – What To Do?
Construction projects that last many months can pose an inconvenience to nearby residents due to late-night drilling and constant hammering. There is either ongoing maintenance in the area or a new structure is being built in an area experiencing rapid growth. To boost the real estate sector and facilitate businesses, Dubai permits construction work to continue round-the-clock. The companies, however, are required to apply for a permit before beginning work at night.
As a result, construction workers are subject to specific laws, which include limits on construction-related excessive noise. Construction companies are aware that they are breaking the law. Consequently, they take steps to resolve any construction noise disputes. In case of violations, citizens can take legal action. Here’s how to deal with construction noise in Dubai.
When Can I Make A Complaint About Loud Noise In Dubai?
Dubai has a law protecting residents from construction noise. It is the Dubai Municipality that enforces the rules regarding construction work and noise it may generate during the day or night.
For all companies, a noise limit has been set by law. During the day, from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm, the noise level should not exceed 55 decibels. The acceptable limit at night is 45 decibels, from 8:00 pm to 7:00 am.
To give you some context, the sound of a bird cooing is typically 40 decibels, the sound of a toilet flushing or a vacuum cleaner operating at 70 decibels, and the sound of a motorcycle is usually around 100 decibels. You can use these educated estimates to assess noise levels without the need for specialized equipment.
What are the procedures for filing a complaint about construction noise in Dubai?
Prior to going down the more official route, you can speak with the construction manager and make a formal request. If the manager isn’t on-site, the watchman on the construction site may be able to assist. Although it is not a requirement, it may prove to be successful and eliminate the need to file an official complaint.
When it comes to filing an official complaint, you have two options. The first step is to call Dubai Police on their non-emergency number: 901. You can also contact the Dubai Municipality by calling their toll-free number: 800-900, and file a complaint against the construction company.
In Dubai, The Noise Complaint Process
The Director of the Buildings Department at Dubai Municipality or a member of his department visits the premises once the complaint is submitted. A mandatory directive is subsequently issued if deemed necessary to remedy the situation.
The officer can take action if the construction team fails to comply with the directives. This can include making the instrument noise non-functional within the premises, seizing it, transporting it to the municipal office, or compiling a report about the violation and imposing a fine.
In extreme cases, a civil lawsuit can be filed in the UAE. You are unlikely to have to go down that path, as most situations are resolved long before that. It is not easy to deal with loud noise in Dubai, but it can be handled tactfully.