Various kinds of noise inside and around house caused by daily life activities are collectively called “daily life noise.” Daily life noise includes (1) noises from housing equipment and facilities such as air conditioners, laundry machines, baths and toilets; (2) noises from audio equipment including pianos, stereos and televisions; and (3) pet noises caused by dogs and cats. Sometimes, sounds of using the stairs, opening and closing doors, and beating the dust out of mattresses are considered "noises."
Particularly in apartments and other housing complexes, trouble has often occurred concerning sounds heard from the adjacent floors. Although the degree to which people are irritated by complaint-causing noises varies by the individual, in the quiet of nighttime even a small sound can sound loud. At least after 21:00, it is advisable to keep the noise down.