Sound Insulation Testing
Testing compliance for Approved Document E of The Building Regulations
Approved Document E of The Building Regulations sets the requirements for the sound insulation of separating walls and floors within residential developments in England and Wales. The requirements apply to new build developments and material change of use conversions. Houses, flats, HMO’s and other types of residential premises are all subject to Part E.
Part E Compliance
Proving compliance with Part E is normally required to obtain sign-off for a development by Building Control, achieved by undertaking sound insulation tests on separating walls and floors.
The tests should be undertaken by a company that holds either UKAS or ANC accreditation. S & D Garritt have held ANC accreditation since 2007 and so our tests are fully compliant with the requirements of Approved Document E and are subject to annual audits to ensure accuracy.
Our Test Services
We have undertaken hundreds of tests in all sizes of developments all over the country and ensure that the results we obtain of these vital tests are accurate.
We can talk you through the results of the tests during our visit to your site as soon as we have completed the test work – no waiting to find out if compliance has been achieved.
What Happens If It Fails?
We always hope to give our clients good news with a ‘pass’ result. In the unfortunate event that the test result is a failure, we will be able to tell you the result straight away on site and work with you to improve the building performance to achieve the pass result needed.
The reasons for a failure can be complex, but we can analyse construction drawings, perform on site investigations and provide guidance on what can be done to improve the overall sound insulation. Failing sound insulation tests can be worrying, but we have an excellent track record in helping clients go on to achieve compliance with Part E and get their development signed off.
How Many Tests Are Needed, When Should They Be Done and How Much Does It Cost?
The number of tests required depends on the size of development. Usually, one set of tests is required per ten dwellings or flats of the same construction type.
Sound insulation tests are usually conducted towards the end of a build, after second-fix when mains electricity is available and internal doors have been fitted, but before floor coverings are installed. Different developments progress differently, so please contact us to discuss your site and how we can best undertake the test work to provide a result as early as possible for peace of mind.
We can provide fixed price quotations for the test work inclusive of all expenses and report – the cost depends on how many tests are needed and therefore the size of development. We can often provide an indication of price over the phone, so please give us a call to discuss your site.
Contact us for Sound Insulation Testing in England & Wales
If you have any questions about sound insulation tests, compliance with Approved Document E, or would like a quotation for tests at your development, please do not hesitate to contact us.
