Sound Testing Requirements
Overview of Sound Testing Requirements
If you are undertaking a new development, you’re legally required to make sure the sound insulation design is adequate. The building is required to meet a certain standard of acoustic insulation by Part E (England & Wales) of The Building Regulations. However, there are differing targets that you’ll need to meet, and some exceptions. Find out what the different sound testing requirements are below.
Residential Buildings
If you are developing a residential building, you will have to carry out sound tests. The sound testing requirements will vary depending on whether the development is a new build or a conversion. These include:
- If you install new party walls, you must sound insulate the walls so that no more than 45 decibels of airborne noise can travel through the fabric.
- Equally, if you have installed a new party floor, no more than 45 decibels of airborne noise can travel through the floor’s fabric.
- In addition, you must sound insulate your new party floor so that no more than 64 decibels of impact noise can travel through.
- If your residential development is a conversion, and a party floor has undergone a change of use, you must ensure no more than 64 decibels of impact noise can travel through the floor.
UKBC offers a full acoustic consultation service. If you’re planning a new residential development, we can advise you on how to design your party walls, ceilings and party floors to maximise sound insulation.
Commercial Buildings
If you are developing a commercial unit, there are some cases where you won’t need to carry out sound tests. For example, if your development is next to another commercial unit, you won’t need to carry out sound tests.
However, if your commercial building is near or adjoining to residential properties, the sound testing requirements will be very strict. UKBC can help you make sure your building meets regulations. UKBC offers a complete range of airborne noise surveys. These include commercial and industrial noise surveys, and entertainment and nightclub noise surveys.
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