Sound Insulation Tests

Since 1st July 2003 Sound Insulation testing has been a mandatory requirement.

The requirement is detailed in Approved Document E of the Building Regulations 2000 -Resistance to the Passage of Sound. This covers all newly constructed properties (those not registered with the Robust Details Scheme) and for properties undergoing a change of use which will result in new dwellings being created (known as a material change of use).

Sound insulation tests are also a requirement in some other types of new build property such as hostels, hotels, residential care homes and student accommodation. Such properties are described as 'Rooms for Residential Purposes' in Approved Document E.

The Dragonfly Acoustics consultancy team is experienced in sound insulation testing (also referred to as sound testing, acoustic testing or noise testing) and in the on-site diagnosis of noise transmission problems. All testing is undertaken in accordance with the requirements of Approved Document E and the relevant international standards, ISO140:1998 and ISO717:1997.

Dragonfly Acoustics is happy just to carry out verification testing but its services extend muuch further. As acoustic consultants we can supply detailed, independent advice on any remedial works which may be required such as the construction of floating floors, dry lining of walls and many other specialist sound attenuation treatments.

We have included below a sound insulation testing 'Checklist' as a downloadable PDF file. We advise completing this checklist prior to undertaking sound insulation tests at your site. If the answer to all the checklist questions is ‘Yes’ then testing can be completed at your site. If you answer 'No' to any question on the checklist it may still be possible to conduct sound insulation tests at your site but please contact us for advice.

We offer very competitive rates, particularly in Yorkshire, Lincolnshire and the North East of England.

If you would like more information about our residential noise assessment services please contact us to discuss your requirements.

All the information contained on this page is available to download as a PDF file below.

Related Links:

• The Website of Robust Details Ltd.
  The website for Robust Details Ltd, the company responsible for the administration of the Robust Details scheme.