Sound Testing for Flat Conversions
About Approved Document E (2003 Edition) Resistance to the Passage of Sound
The aim of the Approved Document E is to reduce problems of sound transference in dwellings through the use of appropriate methods of construction.
The document applies to:
- all new residential buildings.
- existing buildings converted to residential use.
- buildings where the number of flats is to be increased or decreased.
The latest edition of Approved Document E (2003 edition) extends these requirements to 'rooms for residential purposes' which broadly means rooms in hotels, hostels, boarding houses, halls of residence and residential homes. The definition does not include rooms in hospitals, or other similar establishments, used for patient accommodation.
Methods of construction
The Approved Document gives examples of acceptable methods of construction for separating walls, floors and stairs in new buildings. The document also details methods of upgrading existing walls, floors and stairs where the building has been subject to a change of use to form a residential property
Site testing of sound insulation
Site testing is required to all flat conversions on a sampling basis. In new dwelling-houses and new flats sound testing is required to either side of a separating wall to measure the insulation against airborne sound. Additionally, separating floors in new flats must be tested for insulation against both airborne AND impact sound. Alternatively the building can be constructed using approved robust methods of construction. Details can be obtained from Robust Details Limited. www.robustdetails.com
Testing organisations
Approved Document E says that pre-completion testing should preferably be carried out by testing organisations with UKAS accreditation.
Such organisations are listed on the UKAS web site at www.ukas.org
The Association of Noise Consultants (ANC) has set up a registration scheme for their members, and at the present time, members of the scheme are regarded as suitably qualified to carry out pre-completion testing.
Registered organisations are listed on the ANC web site at: www.association-of-noise-consultants.co.uk
For further information download Approved Document E (2003 Edition).
