Dust problems

Dust often happens during building and demolition works. It can also be caused by some business and manufacturing processes.

It can be a problem if it happens regularly and affects people's quality of life.

What you can do
If dust is affecting you try talking to the person or business that is causing it. They may be able to solve the problem without the need for formal action. Find out how to solve a problem with your neighbour.

Reporting a dust problem

If you are still being affected by the dust please report it to us.

We need to know:

where the dust is coming from and who or what is causing it
when it happens and how long it has been going on
how it is affecting you - such as not being able to hang out your washing, having to close your windows

We can't investigate anonymous complaints. We need your name and address because we will need to visit your property.

We won't share your name and address with the person causing the problem. But in exceptional circumstances your details may be quoted if your evidence is used in court.

Photos can help us with our enquiries - but don't take photos if you feel it isn't safe.

Report a dust problem

Protecting your privacy - find out how we keep your information safe.

What we can do

We will investigate most dust problems that are causing a statutory nuisance.

We can talk to the person or business that is causing the dust problem. We will find out what they are doing to control it, and explain what action they need to take. We will try and resolve the issue informally, but can take a more formal approach if necessary.

We won't routinely analyse the dust, so can't always advise what health affects may be caused, but may refer the problem to the Health and Safety Executive if necessary.

Notices and prosecution

If the problem doesn't improve and we find that it is causing a statutory nuisance, we will serve a legal notice on the person responsible. If they don't take the action required in the notice we could take further legal action against them.

If they rent their property, they may be breaching their tenancy agreement. We will also check if the dust problem breaches a planning application or building control notice.