BREEAM Thermal Imaging Surveys

BREEAM Thermal Imaging Surveys: Ensuring Energy Efficiency & Compliance

When it comes to sustainability and energy efficiency in buildings, BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) sets the gold standard. As the world’s leading environmental assessment and rating system for buildings, BREEAM recognises the importance of thermal imaging surveys in ensuring energy efficiency and structural integrity. By conducting a thermographic survey, buildings can earn valuable BREEAM credits, provided the inspection is carried out by a certified Level 2 thermographer.

At APT Sound Testing, we specialise in BREEAM Thermal Imaging Surveys for various sectors, including:

• Data centers – Ensuring critical infrastructure is energy efficient and free from thermal anomalies.
• Building envelopes – Identifying insulation gaps, air leakage, and construction defects.
• Flat roofs – Detecting water ingress and thermal bridging issues.
• Electrical and mechanical installations – Preventing overheating, inefficiencies, and potential failures.

Why Choose a BREEAM Thermal Survey?

Thermal imaging surveys are a non-invasive and non-destructive way to inspect a building’s performance. They help in identifying areas where heat is escaping or where insulation is compromised, which can lead to energy loss and increased operational costs. Whether you’re assessing insulation continuity for Building Regulations Part L, checking for air leakage paths, or inspecting underfloor heating systems, our thermal surveys provide precise and actionable results.

Certified Expertise You Can Trust

Our team at APT Sound Testing consists of certified professional engineers with years of experience in thermal imaging surveys, BREEAM compliance, construction, engineering, and maintenance. We ensure that every survey is conducted meticulously, delivering accurate results that help you meet compliance standards and optimize your building’s performance.

When Can a BREEAM Thermal Imaging Survey Be Carried Out?

A thermographic inspection can be conducted once the building envelope is complete and heating is operational. To streamline the compliance process, we also offer complementary pre-completion testing services, including:

• Air Tightness Testing (Building Regulations Part L compliance)
• Sound Testing (Building Regulations Part E compliance)
• Planning Noise Surveys (BS8233 & BS4142)
• Server Room Integrity Testing

Preparing for a BREEAM Thermal Imaging Survey

To ensure accurate and effective results, a few steps must be taken before the survey:

1. Provide Building Drawings – We require a full set of elevation, roof, and floor plan drawings before the site visit.
2. Heating & AC Setup – The building’s heating or air conditioning system must be turned on at least 12 hours before the inspection to create a minimum 10°C temperature difference between the interior and exterior.
3. Dry & Stable Conditions – Surfaces must be dry and free from solar loading (i.e., no sunlight warming external surfaces before testing).
4. Clear Surroundings – Remove any materials stacked against the building envelope, such as timber sheeting.
5. Time the Survey Right – To prevent interference from solar gain, we typically start the survey one hour before sunrise. This may require an early morning visit, so a responsible site contact should be available.
6. Provide Safe Access – The site representative must ensure safe access to all areas, including roofs and elevated sections. If necessary, the client must supply a cherry picker and a certified operator.
7. Control Internal & External Openings – Internal doors should remain open to maintain uniform internal temperatures, while external doors and windows must be closed to prevent heat loss.
8. Site Safety Briefing – Our engineer must receive a site-specific risk briefing from a competent person.
9. Obtain Permits to Work – Any necessary permits must be secured before fieldwork begins.

Let’s Get Started

We make the process of booking and conducting a BREEAM Thermal Imaging Survey simple and efficient. Just provide us with basic details like floor plans, elevation drawings, and the building location, and we’ll take care of the rest. We’ll also send you a helpful checklist to ensure you’re fully prepared.

For professional BREEAM-compliant thermographic inspections, contact APT Sound Testing today at 01525 303905. Our Level 2 certified thermographers are ready to assist you anywhere in London and the UK. Let’s work together to enhance your building’s energy efficiency and sustainability!