One question clients regularly ask is: “What types of sound insulation testing are needed for flats?”

If you’re building a new block of flats or converting an existing property into separate dwellings, sound insulation testing is an important part of the Building Regulations process.

Under Approved Document E (ADE), separating walls and floors need to provide a suitable level of protection against noise travelling between homes. This includes everyday sounds such as conversations, television, music and footsteps.

The exact testing requirements depend on whether you’re dealing with a new-build development or a conversion. Still, two main types of sound insulation testing apply: airborne sound testing and impact sound testing.

Airborne Sound Insulation Testing

Airborne sound testing looks at how effectively a wall or floor stops sound travelling through the air.

Typical examples include speech, television, music and general household noise.

Where are airborne sound tests required?

Testing may be required between:

• Living rooms in neighbouring flats
• Bedrooms in neighbouring flats
• Living rooms and bedrooms
• Separating floors between flats

Airborne testing applies to both new-build flats and conversion projects.

How does an airborne sound test work?

During the test, a high-powered dodecahedron loudspeaker generates pink noise in one room. Class 1 sound meters then measure the sound levels in both the source room and the receiving room.

The results are used to calculate the airborne sound insulation performance, expressed as DnT,w + Ctr.

Minimum performance requirements

For residential developments, the typical minimum requirements are:

• New-build flats: ≥ 45 dB
• Conversions: ≥ 43 dB

These figures are an important part of demonstrating compliance with Approved Document E.

For a more detailed explanation, see our guide to Airborne Sound Testing.

Impact Sound Insulation Testing

Impact testing is slightly different. Rather than measuring sound travelling through the air, it measures noise created by physical impact on a separating floor.

Think about footsteps from the flat above, a chair being moved, or an object being dropped on the floor.

Where are impact tests required?

Impact testing is required for separating floors between dwellings, including conversions where a new flat is created above or below another dwelling.

How does impact testing work?

A calibrated tapping machine is placed on the upper-flat floor. The machine repeatedly drops a series of metal hammers onto the floor in a controlled pattern.

A Class 1 sound meter measures the resulting noise level in the room below.

The lower the measured result, the better the floor controls impact noise.

Minimum performance requirements

Typical limits are:

• New-build flats: ≤ 62 dB
• Conversions: ≤ 64 dB

If you’re dealing with an existing or upgraded floor, it’s particularly important to consider the floor construction and acoustic build-up before work starts.

For more information, see our guide to Sound Testing Floors in Flats.

Sound Testing Requirements for New-Build Flats

For a typical new-build flat development, you will generally need to consider:

• Airborne testing of separating walls
• Airborne testing of separating floors
• Impact testing of separating floors

The number of tests required depends on the size and layout of the development, as well as the different types of separating construction being used.

For example, a small block may typically require something along the lines of:

• 2 airborne wall tests
• 2 airborne floor tests
• 2 impact floor tests

However, confirm the exact testing schedule for each project rather than relying on a standard number of tests.

What about Robust Details?

If a development is constructed in accordance with an applicable Robust Details specification, sound testing may not be required for those particular separating elements.

However, you must follow the relevant Robust Details specification correctly, including the required registration and construction details. If the construction differs from the specification, testing may still be required.

Sound Testing Requirements for Conversion Flats

Conversions can be more challenging from an acoustic perspective.

Older buildings were not necessarily designed with the same levels of sound insulation expected between modern dwellings. Existing floors and walls can therefore perform very differently from one property to another.

For conversion projects, the required testing can include:

• Airborne wall testing
• Airborne floor testing
• Impact floor testing

Why test before construction?

For conversions, we often recommend pre-construction sound testing where appropriate.

Testing the existing structure before carrying out acoustic upgrades can help establish how well the existing floor or wall performs. You can then use this information to determine what improvements are likely needed.

It can be much more cost-effective to identify an acoustic problem before installing the new floor or ceiling than to discover it during the final compliance test.

For further guidance, see our article on Designing for Sound Insulation.

Pre-Construction and Post-Construction Sound Testing

Sound insulation testing can be useful at different stages of a project.

Pre-construction testing

Pre-construction testing is particularly useful on conversion projects.

It allows you to assess the existing construction before acoustic upgrade work begins. The results can then help inform the design of the proposed floor or wall build-up.

Post-construction testing

Post-construction, or pre-completion testing, is carried out once the relevant construction work has been completed.

These tests provide the results needed to demonstrate compliance with Building Control where testing is required.

For a more detailed explanation of the process, see our guide to Pre- and Post-Construction Sound Insulation Testing Methodology.

Sound Testing for Lease Conditions and Hard Flooring

Building Regulations aren’t the only reason you may need sound testing in a flat.

Some lease agreements, particularly in London, include acoustic requirements for flooring alterations. This is especially common when replacing carpet with timber, laminate or engineered wood flooring.

In these situations, an acoustic assessment or sound testing may be required before and/or after the flooring is installed.

Depending on the lease and the requirements of the building, this could involve:

• Pre-installation airborne and impact testing
• Acoustic assessment and design advice
• Installation of an appropriate acoustic floor system
• Post-installation verification testing

Check the lease requirements before starting work. Getting the acoustic requirements right at the design stage can help avoid problems later.

For more information, see our guide to Sound Testing and Acoustic Design for Lease Conditions.

Why Choose APT Sound Testing?

At APT Sound Testing, we work with developers, builders, architects, landlords and property professionals across London and the South East.

Our services include:

• UKAS-accredited testing laboratory status
• ATTMA Level 2 certification
• More than 22 years of experience in acoustics and sound insulation testing
• Specialist experience with London and South East developments
• Fast site attendance, often within 24–48 hours
• Same-day certification
• In-house sound testing engineers rather than subcontractors
• Additional services including air testing, thermal imaging and diagnostic smoke surveys

Because our engineers test a wide range of residential projects, we can often identify potential problems quickly and provide practical advice on what may need to be addressed.

The aim is simple: help you get the testing right and avoid unnecessary project delays.

Need Sound Insulation Testing for a Flat?

Whether you’re developing a new block of flats, converting an existing property or carrying out alterations to a leasehold flat, getting the acoustic requirements right early can save time and money.

If you need sound insulation testing in London or the South East, or you’d like advice about acoustic design and compliance, get in touch with APT Sound Testing.

Email: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk
Phone: 07775 623464
Website: www.aptsoundtesting.co.uk

We can often attend sites within 24–48 hours, with certificates available the same day where appropriate.

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There are ways to improve the airborne and impact performance by improving the wall/floor partitions ability to reduce the amount of sound transmission from one side of a construction element to the other. By isolating the different materials may not be enough its own and you may need to improve the mass of the partition as well.

Improving Existing Floor Partitions
In our experience of undertaking hundreds of sound insulation tests in London, refurbishment projects usually achieve 30-35dB for airborne sound and 70dB for Impact Sound, if the existing construction has not been acoustically upgraded. These figures do not meet the required 43dB & 64dB as stipulated in Part E of Building Regulations. As sound double every 10dB this is a massive failure and acoustic improvements must be made. Many existing construction consist of a similar construction as shown in as detail 1 below.

Acoustic Improvements to Existing Floor Partitions
To reduce airborne and impact sound transmission this usually means adding density and isolation to the floor construction. This can be as simple as adding a drop ceiling consisting of 125mm timber frame. The top of the frame must be a minimum of 25mm below the existing ceiling finish – such as lathe and plaster. Then, to the inside of the timber frame add 100mm of Acoustic Wool and two layers of sound-board tacked to the bottom of the timber frame – all boards to be lapped.

This should improve your sound test results by approx. 10-15dB depending on the existing site conditions and quality of the installation. Detail 2 shows this in more detail.

Improving Existing Wall Partitions
The standard onsite construction for existing internal walls may be a mixture of 100mm masonry with render applied to either side; or, 100mm timber partition with lathe and plaster to either side. Unfortunately neither of these existing wall constructions will have the acoustic properties to pass Part E in their existing state due to lack of mass and poor isolation values.

Improving Wall Partitions
One way to quick and simple way improve the acoustic performance of a the dividing wall partition, is to install a 70mm metsec partition in front of the existing wall – its usually best to install this in the largest room. Leave approx. 25mm gap between the back of the metsec and the wall. Then install 50mm acoustic wool to the inside of the metsec and add two layers of soundboard to the outside of the metsec frame, ensuring all boards are properly lapped and the perimeter joints are filled with acoustic mastic.

Taking the above into account is it essential that the acoustic design is addressed right from the start of the refurbishment project, so it prevents delays in handover, i.e. to prevent the dwelling failing the sound testing at building control signoff stage.– a common problem.

We can also offer acoustic design advice and UKAS sound testing on existing flats to ensure that the building handover is not delayed due to noncompliance with Part E. We can also undertake sample sound testing on projects where clients are worried about existing ‘hybrid’ construction/s to help highlight the existing noise levels so acoustic upgrades – if required) can be quickly targeted and implemented.

If you would like advice on your acoustic design or require sound insulation testing in London, please contact us now on 01525 303905 or contact us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk.

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Many of the dwellings in London consist of flats converted from large Victorian houses. Unfortunately at the time of the building conversion, designing for sound insulation was not a high priority and so many of the dwellings suffer from adverse noise transference between the floor and wall partitions. This can be extremely stressful to the occupant’s wellbeing is a major cause for concern.

There are ways to improve the airborne and impact performance by improving the wall/floor partitions ability to reduce the amount of sound transmission from one side of a construction element to the other. By isolating the different materials may not be enough its own and you may need to improve the mass of the partition as well.

Improving Existing Floor Partitions

In our experience of undertaking hundreds of sound tests in London, refurbishment projects usually achieve 30-35dB for airborne sound and 70dB for Impact Sound, if the existing construction has not been acoustically upgraded. These figures do not meet the required 43dB & 64dB as stipulated in Part E of Building Regulations. As sound double every 10dB this is a massive failure and acoustic improvements must be made. Many existing construction consist of a similar construction as shown in as detail 1 below.

Detail 1: Existing Floor Partitions Rated At Approx. 30dB

Acoustic Improvements to Existing Floor Partitions

To reduce airborne and impact sound transmission this usually means adding density and isolation to the floor construction. This can be as simple as adding a drop ceiling consisting of 125mm timber frame. The top of the frame must be a minimum of 25mm below the existing ceiling finish – such as lathe and plaster. Then, to the inside of the timber frame add 100mm of Acoustic Wool and two layers of sound-board tacked to the bottom of the timber frame – all boards to be lapped. This should improve your sound test results by approx. 10-15dB depending on the existing site conditions and quality of the installation.

Improving Existing Wall Partitions

The standard onsite construction for existing internal walls may be a mixture of 100mm masonry with render applied to either side; or, 100mm timber partition with lathe and plaster to either side. Unfortunately neither of these existing wall constructions will have the acoustic properties to pass Part E in their existing state due to lack of mass and poor isolation values.  

Improving Wall Partitions

One way to quick and simple way improve the acoustic performance of a the dividing wall partition, is to install a 70mm metsec partition in front of the existing wall – its usually best to install this in the largest room. Leave approx. 25mm gap between the back of the metsec and the wall. Then install 50mm acoustic wool to the inside of the metsec and add two layers of soundboard to the outside of the metsec frame, ensuring all boards are properly lapped and the perimeter joints are filled with acoustic mastic.

Taking the above into account is it essential that the acoustic design is addressed right from the start of the refurbishment project, so it prevents delays in handover, i.e. to prevent the dwelling failing the sound testing at building control signoff stage – a common problem.

We can also offer acoustic design advice and UKAS sound testing on existing flats to ensure that the building handover is not delayed due to noncompliance with Part E. We can also undertake sample sound testing on projects where clients are worried about existing ‘hybrid’ construction/s to help highlight the existing noise levels so acoustic upgrades – if required) can be quickly targeted and implemented.

If you would like advice on your acoustic design or require sound insulation testing in London, please contact us now on 07775 623464 or contact us at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk.

The post Sound Insulation on London Properties appeared first on SoundTesting Services UK.

Since July 2003, pre-completion sound insulation testing has been a legal requirement under Part E of the Building Regulations. At APT Sound Testing, we are a UKAS-accredited sound insulation testing laboratory offering expert guidance, fast testing, and reliable reports to help you meet building control sign-off requirements.

What Is Sound Insulation Testing?

Sound insulation testing measures how effectively walls, floors, and ceilings reduce the transmission of airborne and impact noise between adjoining rooms or dwellings. It is required for:

• New-build residential properties
• Conversions (e.g., commercial-to-residential)

The goal of Approved Document E (England, Wales, and Northern Ireland) is to limit noise disturbance between homes, protecting residents’ quality of life.

When Is Sound Testing Required?

All developments built after July 2003 must undergo sound insulation testing. Typically, 10% of each type of separating wall and floor construction must be tested. Tests are carried out between adjoining rooms across party walls or floors.

How to Prepare for a Sound Insulation Test

Proper preparation increases the likelihood of passing the test on the first attempt. When you book with us, we provide a detailed checklist to guide you. Here are some essential steps:

1. Minimize site noise – Avoid use of radios, power tools, or alarms.
2. Complete all internal constructions – Walls, floors, ceilings must be finished.
3. Fit windows and doors – Fully installed, glazed, and closed.
4. Install and close ventilation systems
5. Hang and close internal doors
6. Install skirting boards, sockets, and light switches
7. Do not lay final floor finishes – Bare structural floors are needed for impact testing.
8. Keep test rooms empty and accessible
9. Ensure no workers are on-site during testing
10. Provide access to both sides of separating walls/floors
11. Ensure 240v (50Hz) power is available

How Many Tests Are Required?

The number of tests depends on your development size and construction types. For example:

• Small to medium projects (up to 10 units): Often require one “6-pack” (2 airborne wall tests, 2 airborne floor tests, and 2 impact floor tests).
• Semi-detached houses: Typically only need 2 airborne wall tests.

We’ll assess your project and confirm the exact testing requirement when you request a quote.

What If My Building Fails the Test?

Don’t worry, failures can be rectified. If your development doesn’t meet the required standards, our experienced acoustic consultants will suggest targeted acoustic upgrades to help you pass on retest and achieve compliance.

Why Choose APT Sound Testing?

• UKAS-accredited for peace of mind
• Nationwide coverage across the UK, including London
• Expert support from design stage through to final testing
• Fast turnaround and clear reporting
• Experience with residential, commercial, educational, and care buildings

Need help with your project?
Call us today at 01525 303905 or fill out our online contact form. One of our friendly acoustic and air tightness consultants will be in touch to guide you through the process.

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What is sound testing for Part E
Sound Insulation Testing is a method of quantifying the sound insulation performance of  walls and/or floors. Sound testing can be carried out on party walls, party floors or facades of any building.

What is sound insulation?
Sound insulation is the property of a wall and /or dividing partition to resist the passage of noise.

Why do I need sound testing on my Project/Property?
The largest single reason for disputes between neighbours is noise complaints. Approved Document Part E – Resistance to the passage of sound describes minimum standards to be achieved by newly built domestic dwellings.

What building regulation do we work to?

Approved Document Part E, sets out minimum standards for sound insulation performance to be achieved by party wall and party floors. Building contractors may show compliance with Part E of the Building Regulations by two methods. One method is to register plots to be built with Robust Standard Details Limited and the other is to show as-built performance by Pre-Completion Sound Testing to Part E of Building Regulations.

When are Pre-Completion Sound Tests carried out?
Pre completion Sound testing is carried out when the construction of party walls and floors are largely complete. Windows should be in place with any vents closable. Internal and external doors should be in place, along with skirting, cornicing and plug sockets in place. Sound testing on floors must be carried out before any soft coverings are in place.

 Do detached properties require sound testing for Part E of Building Regulations?

No, only attached properties require sound tests, detached properties share no common partitions with any other properties.

Are internal walls/floor between rooms within a single dwelling sound tested?
No, Laboratory test based performance standards (Rw) exist for certain internal walls and floors, but they are not intended to be verified as-built by on site measurement and therefore sound insulation testing is not a requirement.

How many sound tests are needed on my Project?

Approved Document E states that one set of sound tests is required for every 10 units in a group or sub-group. A group or sub-group is defined where significant differences in construction or layout occur, for instance:

• For a pair of semi-detached Houses – a set of tests would usually comprise two airborne sound insulation tests of a separating wall.
  
• For Flats (up to 10 units) – a six pack would normally be required, this comprises of: two airborne wall tests, two airborne floor tests and two impact floor sound tests. The easiest way to work out the number of tests required is to multiply 1 x 6 packs for every 10 flats, i.e. if you have 22 flats you will require 3 x 6 packs which equals 18 sound tests in total.
  
• For Rooms for Residential Purposes (student accommodation, hotel rooms, care homes etc.) – a set of tests would usually comprise: one airborne sound insulation tests of a separating wall; one airborne sound insulation test of a separating floor; one impact sound transmission test of a separating floor.

How are plots selected for Sound Insulation Testing?
We will usually specify the sound insulation tests that are required. We first look at the plans then work a testing schedule taking into account testing through both the projects lounges & bedrooms where possible. We will also try and undertake testing across walls and floors in different areas of the building.

The building control officer, warranty provider or other concerned parties may require you to carry out sound testing in specific areas or plots. However where this has not been stipulated we can advise accordingly. When we have specified the sound testing schedule it should always be checked by building control and/or the client to seek their approval before the commencement of testing.

How do I Preparing my Site for Sound Insulation Testing?

APT always send out a checklist with our fee proposals to help you prepare for the sound testing, as we always want our clients to be fully prepared so they can pass their sound testing at the first attempt.

Will the sound insulation testing disrupt work on site? 
There should be minimal site disruption during the sound insulation testing. However, although high levels of noise are generated but in order to make accurate test measurements, relatively quiet conditions are needed to take accurate measurements. This means that anyone working in the testing area will have to leave temporarily and any noisy works in the vicinity of the test rooms will need to be halted i.e. using power tools.

How long will the Sound Insulation Testing take?

The time taken for London sound testing varies with site conditions, but generally a ‘6 pack’ set of tests on houses and flats takes about one to two hours. Obviously this depends on the site being fully prepared in line with our sound testing checklist.

How do I know if I’m ready for a sound insulation test?
The plots should be at least at second fix stage – for further details please refer to our checklist.

Do I need all internal and external doors and windows installed?
Yes, all internal and external doors must be fitted and operable prior to the sound testing. Trickle vents must also be installed where required.

 What if I only have 110 volt on site?

Unfortunately we cannot undertake the testing; we will need 240V to undertake the sound insulation testing.

Should I inform my neighbours of the impending sound testing?
If the building is attached in any way to occupied properties then you will need to inform the neighbours. To comply with Part E we need to gain access to the neighbouring properties to undertake the sound test. You will need to ensure that access is provided to the neighbouring properties throughout the sound testing.

Can you offer advice to help me to pass my sound insulation testing?
We offer an acoustic design service to help you design your buildings partitions to pass Part E sound testing. If you send through the relevant drawings such as sections and plans during the design stages of the project, we can check the design to see if there are any junctions or details where ‘noise flanking’ may occur. You can then change your design to lower the chance of a sound test failure.

Do you have a check-list to help us prepare for the sound testing?
Yes, we have an informative checklist to help prepare for the testing, please visit our website at www.aptsoundtesting.co.uk to download the checklist.

Is it easy to upgrade the sound insulation in my Existing Home?.

Yes of course. If excess noise is causing you stress and anxiety, in comparison upgrading the walls/floors to your existing property can be a worthwhile process. its normally quite easy to upgrade walls and floors/ceilings to lower sound transmission. Sometimes it can be as easy as installing an acoustically (insulated) backed board against the offending partition. In all instances it is important not only that the right products are used to cause minimal disruption but they are also fitted correctly in-line with manufacturer’s guidelines. .

Rest Assured

We believe in working with our clients whether they are existing home owners suffering acoustic problems or large developers requiring a more expansive service to achieve sound testing compliance. We believe that by being involved at the beginning of a project we can often save our clients expensive and difficult remedial works at the completion stage of a project.

If you would like more information on our full range of services, including Sound Insulation Testing, please contact us now at info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk or call us on 01525 303905.

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