Sound Insulation Testing

What Is Sound Insulation Testing?

Sound insulation testing measures how effectively walls and floors reduce the transmission of noise between separate dwellings. This includes both airborne sound (voices, music, TVs) and impact sound (footsteps, movement, vibrations).

Testing is required for:

New build houses converted into flats
Newly constructed flats or apartments
Buildings converted into HMOs
Properties divided into multiple dwellings under Building Regs
Any project where separate living units share a wall or floor

Only certain exemptions apply, such as detached dwellings.

A successful test demonstrates that your property provides adequate noise separation and will not disturb future occupants.

Why Sound

Why Sound Insulation Testing Is Essential

Noise is one of the most common complaints among tenants and homeowners. Without proper insulation, neighbouring properties can be heavily impacted by everyday activity.

Sound insulation testing ensures:

Compliance with Building Regulations (Approved Document E)
A comfortable living environment for future occupants
Protection against costly remedial work
Certification required for completion and sign-off

Failing to meet the required standards can delay project completion and lead to expensive upgrades.

Why Choose

Why Choose Home Energy EPC for Sound Insulation Testing?

Our acoustic testing specialists provide a professional, streamlined service designed for developers, builders, architects and landlords.

What Sets Us Apart:

Fully accredited and experienced testers
UKAS-recognised equipment and testing procedures
Fast on-site testing with minimal disruption
Clear, easy-to-understand acoustic reports
Practical advice and guidance if a section fails
Multi-unit discounts for developers
Flexible scheduling, including short-notice appointments

We test everything from small two-flat conversions to large residential developments.

Types

Types of Sound Tests We Perform

We carry out all tests required to demonstrate compliance with Approved Document E.

Airborne Sound Tests (Walls & Floors)

Measures how well separating walls and floors prevent sound from travelling between dwellings. This includes speech, TV noise and general household activity.

Impact Sound Tests (Floors Only)

Tests how effectively a floor reduces impact noise, such as footsteps or dropped items.

Pre-Completion Testing (PCT)

Required under Building Regulations for many residential developments before the property can be signed off.

Works

How Sound Testing Works

Sound insulation testing follows a structured process. Here’s what happens during your appointment:

Equipment Setup

Our engineer sets up specialist equipment such as tapping machines, loudspeakers and sound meters.

Airborne Sound Test

A loudspeaker generates controlled noise in one room while a sensitive meter measures sound levels in the adjoining room.

Impact Sound Test

A tapping machine simulates footfall on an upper floor while measurements are taken below.

Background Noise Measurements

We ensure external noise does not affect the results.

Data Analysis

All readings are analysed to determine if the building meets legal requirements.

Results & Certification

You receive a full written report detailing pass/fail outcomes and recommendations.

Most tests are completed within 1–2 hours depending on the number of separating elements.

Testing

How to Prepare for Sound Testing

To ensure accurate and successful results, your property must be fully prepared:

Windows and doors fully installed
Power available on-site
No ongoing noisy construction work
Rooms clear enough to place equipment
Floors, ceilings and walls complete
Air leakage points sealed

Proper preparation reduces the risk of failure.

Common Reasons

Common Reasons for Sound Test Failure

If a test fails, it is usually due to one of the following:

Gaps or cracks in partitions
Poor workmanship around sockets or service penetrations
Insufficient insulation
Lightweight construction
Incorrect fixing methods
Thermal bypasses or unsealed junctions

We provide clear, practical advice to resolve any issues quickly.

Offer

Pricing

Our pricing is competitive and based on the number of tests required. We offer:

Single dwelling testing
Bulk discounts for multi-unit developments
Combined testing packages with SAP EPC and Part O if needed

let’s make it shine!

Book Your Sound Insulation Test Today

Whether you’re building new flats or converting an existing property, Home Energy EPC provides reliable, fully compliant sound insulation testing to keep your project moving.

info@homeenergyeepc.co.uk

0121 000 0000

Book your sound test today and ensure your development meets all acoustic performance standards.