airtightness uk
Building Testing FAQs
Clear answers for self-builders, homeowners, developers and contractors. Been told you need an air test, extractor fan test or sound test? Start here, then explore the relevant service for more detail.
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Which building test do I need?
Airtightness testing measures air leakage through the building fabric. Ventilation testing measures airflow through installed fans and systems. Sound insulation testing measures how sound travels between spaces. Send us the request from your project team or Building Control if you are unsure which service is needed.
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Is an extractor fan test the same as Part F testing?
Extractor airflow measurement can form part of ventilation testing and commissioning for Part F, the Building Regulations provisions covering ventilation. The scope depends on the installed system and your project requirements. A fan running does not prove that it moves enough air. Read about ventilation and extractor fan testing.
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Is an air test the same as a ventilation test?
No. An air pressure test checks leakage through the building fabric; a ventilation test checks the installed ventilation system. A project may need both. Explore airtightness testing.
Booking & Preparing for Your Test
When should I book?
Contact us while planning your programme, rather than waiting until handover. The right test stage depends on the service and installation. Allow time for incomplete work, adjustments and any retest. We discuss readiness and available dates before confirming the visit.
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How do I prepare for an airtightness test?
The building envelope should be ready for testing, with relevant doors, windows and service penetrations completed. Provide safe access, power and the project drawings or test target where available. We confirm the test conditions and permitted temporary sealing with you. See the airtightness preparation guidance.
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What needs to be ready for an extractor fan or ventilation test?
Fans, ductwork, terminals and controls should be installed, connected and accessible, with power available. Have the ventilation design and intended airflow rates ready where available. Let us know about incomplete work. See ventilation preparation guidance.
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How much does testing cost?
The quote depends on the tests required, location, property or plot count, system details, access and whether commissioning or investigation is included. Send the project details so we can confirm a suitable scope and price.
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How long does a visit take?
Time on site depends on the building, systems, number of tests and readiness. Investigation or adjustments can require additional time. We discuss the expected visit arrangements when reviewing your enquiry.
Results, Reports & Development Programmes
What happens if the test fails?
We explain the result and discuss likely problem areas, further investigation and any retesting needed. Our experience as carpenters, bricklayers, site managers and general builders helps us give practical guidance to the people carrying out the work. Repairs and additional visits depend on the agreed scope. Explore specialist testing and fault finding.
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What reports or certificates will I receive?
You receive the relevant results and test or commissioning records for the work completed. Tell us what your project team needs when requesting a quote, including plot references and reporting requirements. We explain any issues requiring further work; the records relate to the installation tested.
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Can you coordinate testing across multiple plots or phases?
Yes, we can discuss testing around plot readiness, access and target handover dates. Share your programme, property count, services required and site contact early so we can agree suitable arrangements. See testing for developers and contractors.
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Can different tests be arranged together?
Tell us if you need airtightness, ventilation and sound testing on the same project. We can discuss coordinated arrangements, subject to availability, readiness and the agreed scope. Read about sound insulation testing.
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Where do you work?
We are based in Felixstowe, Suffolk, supporting projects across East Anglia with UK-wide project capability. Send your site postcode and requirements so we can confirm arrangements.
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What should I send for a quotation?
Your postcode, building type, property or plot count, required tests, project stage and preferred dates. Include drawings, test targets, system details or the request you received where available. For developments, add phase dates and reporting requirements.