With all the regulations and check lists asked of you when you build, sometimes it’s hard to keep up and know exactly when and if you need a certain service to sign off. One of these people is a sound test.  

So, first of all, do you need a sound test? 

You will only need a sound test for the following types of dwelling, flats, semi-detached and terrace houses. Basically, any dwelling that shares its walls or floor/ceilings with another dwelling must be sound tested. They apply to new builds and also conversions. 

Once you establish that you need one, when exactly do you have a test carried out? 

This test is a pre-completion test, so it must be completed before the dwelling is signed off. There is no rule for what stage of building it must be done, but it's advised it’s carried out after the following works have been completed. You can also use this as a checklist when building; 

• •  All glazing, internal and external doors must be installed and closed with all relevant fixtures in place, i.e., door handles and seals

• •  All ventilation and trickle vents must be installed

• •  Walls, floors and ceilings must be complete, without any finishes applied

• •  Skirting, sockets and light switches must be fitted

• •  Minimise the trades working on site, as well as the use of power tools and plant traffic

• •  Businesses must be closed during the duration of the testing if testing between them (residential to commercial)

• •  No personnel or inhabitants can be present during testing, tests can be more than 100dB

• •  240v/50Hz mains power must be available within the dwelling

When all the above is complete, you should carry out testing. If you are unsure if you’re ready, or only a few of these points have been addressed, contact ATSPACE where one of our experienced consultants can answer your query.