09 February 2012Noise from Audible Intruder Alarms
The sounding of an alarm can give rise to a statutory nuisance under the Environmental Protection Act 1990. If this Authority is satisfied that a statutory nuisance has arisen from the operation of the alarm, the owner or occupier of the premises may be required to fit an automatic cut out device to silence the alarm after 20 minutes of operation.
This Authority also has the power to apply to a Magistrate for a warrant to enter the premises, by force if necessary, and to take steps necessary to silence the alarm. Premises entered in this manner will be left secured. The premises owner will be charged for the costs that the Council has incurred and could also be liable to prosecution.
If you have an alarm installed, there should be two nominated key holders, and their names and addresses should be made known to neighbours. The key holders should live within a short distance of the premises and be able to silence the alarm within 20 minutes.
It is also strongly recommended by the Council that residents register with Kent Keylink so that key holder details can be accessed by the Council or police at anytime. Residents and businesses wishing to register an alarm should visit www.kentkeylink.co.uk, or telephone 01622 636326 to request an application form; alternatively please contact Environmental Protection at the Council for an information leaflet.
You can call us on 01732 227000 or email us at environmental.protection@sevenoaks.gov.uk
