Sound Insulation Testing

The Building Regulations Approved Document E (2003) explains the basic considerations, which have to be taken into account when dealing with sound insulation in both new construction and conversion work.

The Regulations apply to noise transmission between dwellings, and methods are described to demonstrate that a proposed construction complies with the requirements, by adopting a form of construction that is similar to one that has been shown by field tests to comply with requirements. These field tests include (a) airborne sound insulation measurements of a separating wall or floor in accordance with the method of BS EN ISO 140 Part 4 and (b) impact sound insulation measurements of a separating floor in accordance with BS EN ISO 140 Part 7.

Organisations conducting sound insulation testing have to be approved by UKAS or other equivalent body. The Association of Noise Consultants has developed its own alternative registration scheme for testing approval and this scheme has been officially accepted by CLG (formerly ODPM) in line with the requirements of Part E of the Building Regulations. JSP Consultants is an approved tester under the ANC scheme.

To date the practice has conducted a considerable number of sound insulation tests on a wide range of different properties ranging from small flat conversions to large new build developments, including the higher testing standards demanded by Ecohomes and the Code for Sustainable Homes. Where failures have occurred mitigation advice is available, and initial design advice is also available at the early stage prior to testing.

Clients include major house builders such as Midas Construction Ltd, Barratt Developments, Persimmon Homes Plc, Newland Homes and Kier Partnership, as well as numerous small builders/individuals engaged in conversions.