Noise pollution in houses has increased over the past 80 years as they have become smaller, claims the RICS.
A typical house today is just over half the size of one built before 1920 but sound insulation standards have failed to take account of this.

The RICS is working with the government on a review of sound insulation regulations, and to creates new robust standard details. It said that a number of factors are contributing to what it calls "crowded house syndrome". These include the use of plasterboard rather than wet plaster and a decline in the quality of workmanship.

An RICS construction faculty spokesperson said: "As houses become smaller, construction methods and building regulations should change. There may even be a future premium on the market value of a flat or house that has been sound-tested or complies with the new robust standard details."

Research showed that noise transmission was linked to poor construction and detailing of party walls, and having the windows of properties too close together.