What is a Sound test? 

Sound insulation testing is a method for quantifying the resistance to the passage of sound between two spaces in conversions or new developments such as rooms for residential purposes (hostel/hotel etc.) and dwellings (flats/houses).

Why do you need a Sound Test?

Building Regulations require that new developments and conversions (including residential properties, offices and industrial units) are tested before completion. This is to demonstrate suitable sound insulation in compliance with “Approved Document E of the Building Regulations for England and Wales – Resistance to the Passage of Sound”.

It is your responsibility to commission sound testing and to ensure this is carried out by a test body with approved qualifications and affiliations.

How You Can Ensure All Tests Pass First Time?

Failure in a test will result in the separating structure needing to be improved and the construction type retested. This can be time-consuming and costly, and in the worst case can involve removing ceiling and wall linings and re-building.

A test failure can also mean no Building Control Completion Certificates which are critical to the successful completion of your development.

If you aren’t sure whether your development will meet the requirements, then Base can conduct a sample test, with design advice to offer suggestions on how to achieve the required standards.

How can we help?

Our experienced acoustic consultants work with developers, contractors, architects and planners of all sizes from the early design stage to help minimise any potential issues right through to project completion, ensuring that all properties are compliant with Building Regulations Document E 2003.

We can provide testing and acoustic advice on your building projects for both new and existing developments. Our team of national consultants are fully trained to the latest standards using UKAS calibrated equipment.

Want to talk to our experience acoustic engineers about a sound testing quote? Call us on 020 3286 2016 or email info@baseenergy.co.uk and we will get back to you within the same working day.