Family claims upstairs neighbours create constant disturbances overnight, leaving them desperate for peace
In a city where space is limited, neighbours can significantly influence the quality of life — sometimes turning home into a nightmare. A Singaporean resident recently shared their frustration online, describing how their living situation has become unbearable due to persistently noisy neighbours.
Posting on Reddit, the user explained that since relocating to their new Build-To-Order (BTO) flat nine months ago, they have endured relentless noise from the family living directly above. According to the post, the disturbances — described as loud thuds, hammering, and stomping sounds — have continued for six months, well after the upstairs neighbours completed their home renovations.
The complainant noted that these disruptive noises typically begin at 8 p.m. and persist until 7 a.m., precisely when most people are trying to rest. Curiously, the noise reportedly stops during regular working hours, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
When the residents first approached their neighbours, they were told the sounds must have originated from elsewhere, as their children were asleep at the time. However, over time, the neighbours’ explanations have allegedly been inconsistent.
The affected family even took the step of recording the noises and playing them back for the upstairs neighbours. They suggested using foam mats to reduce noise from footsteps and offered to pass notes to their children as a gentle reminder. Despite these efforts, the neighbours allegedly dismissed their concerns, stating that they should not be expected to restrict their movement in their own home and accusing the complainants of interfering with their lifestyle.
In one particularly tense incident, the frustrated residents knocked on the upstairs door at 4 a.m. to confront them about the noise. The neighbours did not respond and later claimed they were being harassed.
Seeking advice, the family turned to the Reddit community. They shared that they had contacted Singapore’s non-emergency hotline and were awaiting assistance from their Member of Parliament.
Many commenters expressed sympathy but acknowledged the difficulty in resolving such disputes. Some jokingly suggested retaliating with a “ceiling thumper” to return the favour.
One user recounted a similar experience, where the noise only ceased after a household helper with heavy footsteps left the unit above. Another commenter lamented the decline in housing quality, saying, “Homes used to be sturdier and more spacious, like the old HUDC flats. Now, one inconsiderate neighbour can destroy your peace of mind.”
