Part E · acoustic evidence

Sound Insulation Testing Across England

Airborne and impact sound testing support for new-build homes, flats and conversions, with clear preparation guidance and project reporting.

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What is measured?

Assess sound transmission between adjoining dwellings or rooms

Sound insulation testing helps demonstrate the acoustic performance of separating walls and floors. The required test schedule depends on the building layout, construction types and the route agreed with Building Control.

Airborne wall testing

A controlled sound source is used in one room and measurements are taken on both sides of the separating wall, together with background and reverberation information.

Airborne floor testing

The same principle is applied across a separating floor to assess airborne sound transfer between vertically adjoining spaces.

Impact floor testing

A standard tapping source is used on the floor above while transmitted impact sound is measured in the receiving room below.

Testing route

Plan the sample before handover

Review drawings

Identify dwelling types, separating elements, room pairs and the proposed compliance route.

Agree readiness

Confirm finishes, access, power, site noise and whether the selected rooms can be isolated.

Complete tests

Carry out the agreed airborne and impact measurements using the applicable procedure.

Report results

Provide clear results for the tested elements so the project team can complete its evidence.

Site preparation

Make the test rooms ready

Noise, incomplete finishes and unavailable adjoining rooms can prevent usable measurements. Before the visit:

Complete the separating walls, floors, ceilings and required finishes.
Fit and close external windows and doors in the test rooms.
Keep both sides of every selected separating element accessible.
Provide safe power and minimise noisy work during the test period.
Remove temporary openings and complete service penetrations.
Confirm that occupants, contractors and site management know which rooms are required.
Share plans and construction details so the proposed sample can be reviewed.

Do not choose the sample only by room number. The separating construction and dwelling type matter, and the final schedule should reflect the project’s compliance route.

Common questions

Sound testing FAQs

What is the difference between airborne and impact testing?

Airborne testing assesses sound passing through a separating wall or floor. Impact testing assesses noise transmitted through a floor when it is struck by a standard tapping source.

When should testing be booked?

Book before handover when the separating construction, doors, windows and relevant finishes are complete, but allow time for investigation or remedial work if a result needs attention.

How many rooms or separating elements need testing?

The sample depends on the development, dwelling types, separating constructions and compliance route. Confirm the schedule with Building Control and the testing provider.

Can noisy building work continue during a test?

Background noise can affect measurements. The relevant areas should be quiet and controllable during the appointment.

What happens if a tested element does not achieve the required result?

The project team may need to investigate junctions, penetrations, flanking paths or the construction itself. Any remedial proposal should be designed appropriately before a retest.

Related services

Support the wider completion programme

Planning a sound test?

Send the drawings, development size and expected completion date.

Request a project quote