Here in the UK you will find that most new houses will be built with a decent level of sound proofing. In Spain, however, many people will probably be sitting with their fingers in their ears as they endure noise levels up to 65 decibels according to a new global study by Danosa on sound proofing in homes.

The lack of sound proofing is a problem in four out of five Spanish homes according to the survey, which suggests that while the country may have the benefit of a warm climate and sizzling summers, people who live in the country are more likely to be disturbed or be exposed to the effects of noise.

Spain, despite being the worst in Europe finds itself in second place to Japan, which has an even worse record for sound proofing. The problems for Spain go back several years due to a lack of any regulations on soundproofing prior to 2009. Since then the country has been required to meet European regulations on sound proofing when building new homes.

The recommended noise level in homes according to WHO is 55 decibels during the day and 45 decibels during the night. The effects of noise on health are far from trivial with excess noise being blamed for a number of health problems as well as lack of sleep if noise levels are excessive during the night.