Unless your dwelling is completely detached, or built to Robust Details standard, you will need to comply with Part E of the Buildings Regulations by undertaking a Sound Test. These regulations apply to new builds, refurbishments and conversions.

This test will measure the output of sound from a particular dwelling as well as taking into consideration the amount of noise and vibrations entering the building from external sources such as railways or airports.

Sound testing is carried out to ensure that you can demonstrate acceptable levels of sound insulation for your dwelling. This includes party wall and floor insulation which must be tested to make sure they comply with all relevant criteria.

BREEAM

There are two elements which are HEA 05 Acoustic Performance (Health and Wellbeing), and Pol 5. The aim of HEA 05 is to meet the following acoustic principles of:

1. Sound Insulation
2. Indoor ambient noise level
3. Reverberation times

Pol 5: Noise attenuation. The aim here is to reduce the likelihood of noise arising from any fixed installations on the new development affecting the surrounding buildings.

A project involving BREEAM will include appointing an acoustic consultant in the early stages of the design requirement, highlighting any potential risks or concerns. This is then followed up with a design brief so all credits can be obtained through the various criteria’s.

ATSPACE have carried out hundreds of BREEAM projects with SUCCESS. Call now to speak to your dedicated account manager to get the project moving forward.

Listed Buildings

Due to the restraints with listed buildings, there are limitations with what can be done to the existing floors and walls. Even if the building doesn’t meet standards, building control can have the authority to sign these developments off if the developer has carried out and implemented a design with considerable means that all has been done to improve the sound insulation. Best practice is to obtain current performance of the walls and floors and adopt a design demonstrating an upgraded result followed by a further set of tests to confirm improvement.

ATSPACE have carried out thousands of pre and post sound tests for listed and historic buildings. Please enquire now to move your project forward.

To view all our other acoustic services click here.

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