Excuse me, there is too much noise. Could you lower the volume?
ab-BAS-sa-re — stress the second syllable; double 's' gives a sustained sound.
Use this when a neighbour's noise is disturbing you — music, TV, a party — especially after 22:00. The formal Lei form (potrebbe) is essential here to prevent the complaint from sounding aggressive.
Noise complaints are one of the most common interpersonal conflicts in Italian apartment buildings. A polite, direct approach is most effective — face to face or via intercom, using the formal register, and being specific about the problem. Avoid leaving written notes first (passive-aggressive), shouting, or complaining to the administrator without trying direct resolution first.
La musica si sente molto nel mio appartamento.
The music is very audible in my apartment.
States the fact without accusation; si sente (is heard) is more neutral than 'è troppo alta'.
Siamo nelle ore di silenzio — potrebbe fare meno rumore?
We are in quiet hours — could you make less noise?
References the rule without being confrontational; siamo nelle ore di silenzio establishes context.
C'è una festa stasera? Solo per sapere.
Is there a party tonight? Just so I know.
Indirect approach; shows understanding while signalling awareness of the noise.
Italian noise law distinguishes between rumore di fondo (background noise, regulated by DPCM) and disturbo della quiete pubblica (disturbing public peace — a criminal offence under Art. 659 Codice Penale). For excessive noise after 22:00, calling the Polizia Municipale is a legitimate option, though direct resolution is almost always preferable for ongoing neighbourly relations.