Sound Insulation Testing FAQ (frequently asked questions)
What is sound insulation?
Sound insulation is the property of a wall or a floor to resist the passage of noise.
What is sound insulation testing?
Sound Insulation Testing is a method of quantifying the sound insulation performance of a wall or floor. Sound insulation testing can be carried out on party walls, party floors or facades of any building. The methodology for sound insulation testing is set out in various parts of BS EN ISO 140 and ratings in parts of BS EN ISO 717.
Why do I need sound insulation testing?
The largest single reason for disputes between neighbours is noise complaints. Approved Document Part E - Resistance to the passage of sound of the Building Regulations describes minimum standards to be achieved by newly built domestic dwellings. Sound insulation testing is also required in schools, hospitals and workplaces where noisy activities need to be separated from quiet activities.
The Building Regulations 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 Testing.
What is Pre-Completion Testing?
Pre-Completion Testing is method of showing compliance with Approved Document Part E of the Building Regulations by testing a construction in-situ prior to handover. Site Measurement Services Ltd offer competitively priced sound insulation testing to both large and small building contractors for any size of development.
What is a Robust Standard Detail?
A Robust Standard Detail is party wall or floor construction of proven performance that is part of the Robust Standard Detail scheme. The Robust Standard Detail scheme is provided by Robust Standard Detail Limited, an organisation that oversees the registration, specification and construction of party wall or floor constructions. RSD Limited produces a handbook containing specifications and checklists for a restricted number of proven constructions based on empirical data. RSD Limited carries out visual inspections during construction of registered plots and spot checks a sample following completion.
When are Pre-Completion Testing sound insulation tests carried out?
Sound insulation testing required for Pre-Completion Testing (PCT) with respect to Building Regulations Approved Document Part E are carried out when the construction of party walls and floors are largely complete. Windows should be in place with any vents closeable. Internal and external doors should be in place, along with skirting, cornicing and plug sockets in place. Sound insulation testing on floors must be carried out before any soft coverings are in place.
Sound insulation testing following noise complaints from residents can be carried out at any time when suitable access can be arranged.
Who is approved to carry out Sound Insulation Testing?
Approved Document Part E of the Building Regulations states that approved companies should be either UKAS accredited or part of the Association of Noise Consultants (ANC) sound insulation testing registration scheme.
