Pre-Improvement Sound Insulation Testing Checklist

1. Build stage

To achieve the best outcome from this pre-improvement test, ensure the build is nearly complete with the second fix finished. Ensure all skirting boards are installed and all doors and windows are fully fitted and can close. Trickle vents should be in place or temporarily blocked during the test. Ensure all rooms to be tested are free of debris and furniture. By completing these steps, we can provide you with more accurate results.

2. Drawings

Please send us floor plans, sections, and elevations if you haven’t already. This helps us to identify the party walls and floors that we are testing. Send these drawings to your Relationship Manager before the test.

3. Quiet

Reasonably quiet conditions are required. No power tools are to be operated in the near vicinity during the test. No vehicles should be allowed to manoeuvre near the test rooms.

4. Safety

For safety reasons and to comply with operational procedures, we cannot allow anyone else in the room(s) during testing (including pets and children!). Our equipment emits sound levels exceeding 110 dB(A), which can cause permanent hearing damage without proper protection. Additionally, our sound source is remote-controlled and can start unexpectedly.

5. Access

Simultaneous access to both sides of the party element being tested is required. Where adjacent dwellings are under separate ownership, suitable access arrangements should be in place before our visit.

6. Party floor coverings

To ensure compliance with building regulations, it’s crucial to conduct the party floor sound insulation testing before installing any floor coverings. If soft floor coverings are already in place, it’s imperative that we pull back at least 50% of the carpet to facilitate testing access. Testing on bare flooring remains essential as it guarantees adherence to Part E of Building Regulations B2.13 and B2.14. Failure to adhere will be listed on the final report and is therefore highly likely to be rejected by the building control, resulting in additional costs for retesting.

7. Target

Due to different targets for new builds and conversions, it’s important that our engineer is made aware of the build type from the outset.

8. Power

We require 110v / 240v sockets in each test room.

9. Parking

We need a parking spot within 20 metres of the plot we are testing, as the equipment is heavy and very expensive. If no parking can be provided please notify your relationship manager, as parking charges will be added to the final invoice.

10. Location and site address

We aim to arrive at the designated time window, so to help us be as efficient as we can, let us know if there are any difficulties finding the site. Ideally, send us what3words. For your certification records we will require the registered site address. Please ensure the correct address is used on all correspondence, as changes will incur an additional cost.

11. Signature

A site manager or representative must be present throughout the duration of the testing—for our own safety—and be able to provide a signature once we are finished.