Neighbours, Noise and Nuisance in Phuket: What the Rules Say and How to Complain

What the rules say

Thai noise regulations are reported to set a 24-hour average of 70 dB and a maximum of 115 dB at the boundary or facade. A Bangkok Post article says that averaging lets loud music run for hours without breaching the average, and that the maximum penalty is a fine of 10,000 baht or one month in jail. Condominium Act rules let each building set and enforce house rules, and typical quiet hours of 10pm to 7am are reported for condos in Bangkok, with building rules varying.

Practical steps

• Ask politely first, ideally with a witness, and note dates and times.
• Record the noise and see if neighbours have also been disturbed.
• In a condo, complain to the juristic office in writing, see the condo living guide.
• Contact the police or local municipality, though a legal columnist notes noise before midnight is often tolerated and police help is more likely after 2 or 3am.
• As a last resort, consider a lawyer, see the legal help guide.

Phuket specifics

Nightlife zones such as Patong have their own rules, see the nightlife guide. Check nearby temples, restaurants and construction before renting. A Pattaya legal column notes that a civil claim is possible but slow. For renters, see the renting guide and the moving guide.