Sound Testing for Dwellings

Sound Testing for Dwellings: Ensuring Compliance

Since July 2003, pre-completion sound testing has been a mandatory requirement under Part E of the Building Regulations. As a UKAS-accredited sound insulation testing laboratory, we offer a proactive and reliable sound testing service to help our clients achieve building control sign-off with ease.

If you’re involved in the construction or renovation of dwellings, it’s crucial to understand the importance of sound testing. Here’s what you need to know about the process and why it’s essential for your project.

What is Sound Testing for Dwellings?

A common question we receive from clients is: “What exactly is sound testing?” In simple terms, sound insulation testing assesses whether a building meets the required acoustic standards. It is a necessary process for new builds and conversions, ensuring compliance with building regulations.

To ensure accurate results, sound testing must be carried out by a qualified professional with third-party accreditation, such as a UKAS-accredited sound testing company. This guarantees that the testing process adheres to strict quality standards and provides reliable results for regulatory compliance.

Types of Sound Testing

There are two primary types of sound insulation testing:

1. Airborne Sound Insulation Testing

Airborne sound refers to noise that travels through the air and penetrates separating structures between rooms. In the case of a lightweight floor, airborne sound could pass through elements such as the plasterboard ceiling, the floor void, and the floorboards, ultimately reaching the adjacent room.

2. Impact Sound Insulation Testing

Impact sound measures the noise level in a room when a direct impact is made on the floor above. This test is particularly important in multi-story buildings, where sound transmission between floors needs to be minimized to ensure comfortable living conditions for occupants.

Regulatory Requirements and Compliance

The specific acoustic performance standards for new builds and conversions are outlined in Approved Document E: Resistance to the Passage of Sound. These regulations set the minimum requirements for sound insulation, ensuring that buildings provide adequate protection against noise transmission.

For refurbishments, the standards are slightly more lenient than for new constructions, as it is generally more challenging to retrofit effective soundproofing solutions into existing structures. However, compliance is still required to meet building control approval.

When is Sound Testing Required?

All new-build properties and conversions completed after July 2003 must undergo sound testing. A minimum of 10% of each party wall and floor construction type must be tested to ensure compliance with regulations. Testing is conducted between pairs of rooms that are separated by party walls or floors, helping to verify that noise levels remain within acceptable limits.

Why Choose APT Sound Testing?

At APT Sound Testing, we bring years of acoustic design experience to every project, ensuring a seamless process from initial design consultation to final pre-completion testing. Our team of expert acoustic engineers provides:

• Comprehensive Sound Testing Services – Covering both airborne and impact sound insulation testing.
• UKAS-Accredited Testing – Ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.
• Fast and Reliable Service – With site visits typically available within one week.
• Expert Acoustic Design Advice – Helping you implement effective soundproofing solutions.
• Competitive Pricing – Offering cost-effective sound testing without compromising on quality.

Our goal is to make sound insulation testing as straightforward as possible for our clients. Whether you’re a builder, architect, or developer, we’ll guide you through the process to ensure full compliance with Building Regulations.

Book Your Sound Test Today

Don’t let sound insulation testing be an afterthought — ensure compliance early to avoid delays in your project completion. Contact APT Sound Testing today to schedule a sound test or to learn more about our additional services, including acoustic design detailing.

📧 Email: info@aptsoundtesting.co.uk
📞 Call: 01525 303 905 or 07775 623464

We look forward to working with you and helping you achieve a successful building control sign-off!