Shared walls, shared responsibility

Building a positive hall community starts with individual responsibility. Taking ownership of your noise levels demonstrates respect for your fellow residents and fosters a more harmonious atmosphere. It's about creating a space where everyone can study, sleep, and relax comfortably.

Here are our top tips on how to keep control of your own noise levels:

1. Know the quiet times

Most halls have those unwritten (sometimes written) rules about when to turn down the decibels. It's usually late night to early morning, or when it's exam season. Stick to these, and you'll avoid the wrath of sleep-deprived neighbours.

If you don't know when the quiet times are for your hall, you can speak to your Welcome Point or Reception. 

Some of our halls are also Quieter Living, which means they have extended quiet times and restrictions on alcohol. Specifically Lower Cripps and specific blocks at Lincoln Hall 

2. Headphones when you're by yourself

Got a playlist to listen to or a binge-worthy series to watch? Great, just plug in your headphones. It's your personal bubble where you can jam out, laugh or chat with your friends and family online.

However, be mindful that others can still hear you. Not everyone wants to overhear your conversations or hear you shouting at a video game, especially late at night or early in the morning.

This also counts when making phone calls. We know some of you might be calling family or friends in other countries and time zones. So make sure your call is private and be considerate that others might be able to hear you. You can use social spaces at any time and are less likely to be overheard or disrupt anyone.

This of course only applies when you're by yourself but it's still a good option to put into practice for those times.

3. Chat it out

Make sure you're all on the same page about noise. A quick chat about when everyone needs a bit of silence can go a long way. It's all about give and take, plus these preferences may change over time - so keep the conversation going!

4. Party smart

Everyone loves a good get-together, but maybe keep the volume in check, especially if it's a school night. If it's possible, party in a designated area where you won’t disturb anyone or at a certain time when you know no one is in the flat.

5. Lead by example

Be the flatmate/neighbour you’d want to have. Keeping your noise down shows respect, and chances are, others will follow suit.

A bit of consideration goes a long way, and it makes sure everyone can enjoy their uni experience to the fullest - whether they're partying, studying, or just chilling out. Keep it cool, keep it respectful, and let’s make those hallways harmonious. 

For assistance, please contact ResX at 0115 748 7600 or resx@nottingham.ac.uk. You can also visit your Welcome Point (also at 0115 748 7600), or your Reception team.

If you are staying in on campus halls you can also contact University Security at 0115 951 3013, in cases of emergency.