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Noise Log and Sound Level Meter
Keep a clear record of when the noise happens, what it sounds like and how often. A log with dates and times makes it easier to talk to your building manager or a mediation service.
Log and measure noise
1. Log noise now
Tap once while the noise is happening to save the time. You can add the end time, loudness and a note later with Edit in the list.
2. Reference measurement with the microphone (optional)
- Your browser asks for microphone access only when you press Start measuring. Sound is never recorded or sent anywhere; only its level is calculated on this page.
- Phone microphones are not calibrated, so the numbers differ between devices. They are not dB(A) values and cannot show whether a legal limit was exceeded.
- You can keep the log below without measuring.
Advanced: calibration
Only if you know the difference from a sound level meter. Otherwise leave it at 0.
4. Your log (0 entries)
The log is stored only in this browser and never sent to a server. Export it as CSV or text before you change devices or clear your browser data.
Nothing logged yet.
5. Summary by period
No entries in this period.
6. Export
The CSV and text include only the period selected above and have no name or address fields. If downloads are blocked in an in-app browser, use Copy log as text.
Example
Running footsteps from 23:10 to 23:40 that woke you up: start 23:10, end 23:40, type Footsteps, running, felt 4. The summary adds one night entry and 30 minutes, and the Late night 22–24 row goes up by one.
How to use it
The quickest way is to choose what you hear and press Log noise now. The current time is saved; add the end time, loudness and a note later with Edit in the list. To capture the level too, press Start measuring and set the phone down near where the noise comes from. On supported devices the screen stays on while measuring. If the screen turns off or you switch apps, the microphone is turned off and the levels so far are kept, ready to log.
The summary counts entries for any period, how many started at night (22:00–06:00), and shows them by time of day, day of week and noise type. Export a CSV or copy the text before you talk to someone. Exports have no name or address fields, and it is best not to write neighbors’ names or unit numbers in notes.
Reading the phone measurement
The number is the microphone signal level (RMS) on a log scale plus a site default of 100. It has no A-weighting and phone microphones differ, so the same sound gives different numbers on different phones. Compare readings only from the same phone in the same spot. If you know the difference from a sound level meter, enter it under Advanced: calibration.
Korea’s apartment noise standards
For people living in Korea, the Rules on the Scope and Standards of Floor Noise in Apartment Buildings set the levels below, which residents should try to stay under. They are shown for reference only and are not compared with this tool’s readings.
| Noise | Measure | Day 06–22 | Night 22–06 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Impact noise (footsteps, running) | 1-minute equivalent level (Leq) | 39 | 34 |
| Impact noise (footsteps, running) | Maximum level (Lmax) | 57 | 52 |
| Airborne noise (TV, audio) | 5-minute equivalent level (Leq) | 45 | 40 |
The maximum level counts as exceeded if it is passed three or more times in an hour. Plumbing noise from bathrooms is outside the scope. Outside Korea, check your local rules and your building’s house rules; this site does not list other countries’ limits.
Frequently asked questions
Can my phone tell me if the noise is over the legal limit?
No. Legal limits use A-weighted levels measured with calibrated equipment over set periods. Phone microphones are not calibrated, so this tool shows only a reference level for comparing noise on the same phone.
Is the sound recorded?
No. The microphone is used only after you press Start measuring, only the level is calculated on the page, and nothing is saved as audio or sent anywhere. Measuring stops when you leave the page or the screen turns off.
Where is my log stored?
Only in this browser on this device. It is not synced, so export it as CSV or text before you change phones or clear browser data.
Who can help with noise from neighbors?
Start with your building manager or landlord. Rules differ by country and city, so check your local noise rules or mediation service. In Korea, the Korea Environment Corporation runs the Floor Noise Neighbor Center (1661-2642).
More tools
Sources and last updated
- Korea Law Information Center, Rules on the Scope and Standards of Floor Noise in Apartment Buildings (in effect January 2, 2023), Articles 2–3 and the annexed table (checked 2026-10-27, in Korean)
- Korea Environment Corporation, Floor Noise Neighbor Center (checked 2026-10-27, in Korean)
- The reference level formula (RMS on a log scale + 100), the 1–5 loudness scale and the time-of-day bands are site defaults. Sound is never recorded or sent; the log is stored only in this browser.
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