Sound Insulation Testing | Part E 

Airtightness UK provides professional sound insulation testing for new-build homes, flats, conversions and rooms for residential purposes.

Sound testing measures how effectively separating walls and floors reduce the passage of noise between neighbouring properties. It is commonly required before completion to demonstrate compliance with Part E of the Building Regulations.

We provide efficient testing, clear reports and practical support to help keep your project moving towards Building Control sign-off.

What Does Sound Testing Measure?

Depending on the construction and project requirements, testing may include:

Airborne Sound Testing

Airborne testing measures how well a separating wall or floor reduces sounds such as conversation, television and music.

A controlled sound source is used in one room, with measurements taken in the neighbouring room to establish how effectively the separating construction reduces the sound.

Impact Sound Testing

Impact testing measures how effectively a separating floor reduces noise caused by footsteps and other physical impacts.

A standard tapping machine is placed on the floor above while sound levels are measured in the room below.

When Is Sound Testing Required?

Pre-completion sound testing may be required for:

• New-build houses and flats

• Residential developments

• Property conversions

• Buildings undergoing a material change of use

• Student accommodation

• Hotels and rooms for residential purposes

• Separating walls and floors between dwellings

The required testing programme will depend on the type of development, construction methods and Building Control requirements.

If you are unsure what needs to be tested, send us the project drawings and property information and we can help identify the likely testing requirements.

Preparing for a Sound Test

The property should be substantially complete before testing takes place. Separating walls, floors, ceilings, doors and service penetrations should be finished and properly sealed.

We will normally require:

• Safe access to both sides of the separating wall or floor

• Windows and external doors installed and closable

• Internal doors fitted where required

• Electrical sockets, service penetrations and finishes completed

• Suitable electrical power

• Rooms to be reasonably clear and accessible

• No noisy construction work taking place during the test

Testing requires controlled sound measurements, so excessive noise from tools, machinery, other trades or nearby works can affect whether the test can be completed.

We recommend contacting us before the intended test date so we can review the layout, discuss site readiness and reduce the risk of delays.

What Happens if a Sound Test Fails?

A failed sound test doesn’t always mean the complete separating wall or floor needs to be rebuilt.

Poor results can be caused by relatively localised construction issues, including:

• Gaps around the perimeter of walls or floors

• Unsealed service penetrations

• Poorly fitted sockets or electrical boxes

• Gaps above ceilings or within roof spaces

• Missing or incorrectly installed insulation

• Weak junctions between walls, floors and ceilings

• Sound travelling around the separating construction through adjoining elements

• Poorly fitted doors or unfinished openings

Our practical construction experience helps us understand how buildings are put together and where sound may be bypassing the intended separating element.

We don’t simply provide a failed result. Where possible, we help identify likely problem areas and provide practical guidance so that suitable remedial work can be considered before retesting.

Clear Sound-Test Reports

Following testing, a clear report will be provided showing the measurements and results for the separating walls or floors tested.

The report can be supplied to the client, contractor or Building Control team as evidence of the test outcome.

Why Choose Airtightness UK?

• Experienced building-performance specialists

• Practical construction knowledge

• Efficient testing and clear reporting

• Support with failed-test investigations

• Testing for individual properties and larger developments

• Airtightness, ventilation and sound testing available through one company

• Regional and nationwide coverage

We understand the pressures of construction programmes and the importance of completing compliance testing without unnecessary delays.

Arrange Sound Insulation Testing

Airtightness UK provides sound insulation testing across Suffolk, Essex, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, Kent, London and throughout the UK.

Contact us with your project address, drawings, number of properties and required completion date, and we will provide a quotation.

Call: 0330 043 8801
Email: enquiries@airtightness.uk

Need Part E sound testing or help investigating a failed result? Contact Airtightness UK today.