What Is Acoustic Testing?
Acoustic testing measures how effectively walls and floors prevent sound from passing between homes or rooms. It evaluates:
Airborne noise (voices, music, TV).
Impact noise (footsteps, dropped objects).
For new builds, acoustic testing demonstrates compliance with Approved Document E of the Building Regulations. It ensures that separating walls and floors between dwellings achieve minimum sound insulation performance, creating both legal compliance and comfortable living environments.
Why Do You Need Acoustic Testing?
Acoustic testing is essential for both compliance and quality assurance in new builds:
Legal Compliance
Testing is a mandatory part of building control approval for most residential developments. Without it, projects risk costly delays.
Resident Comfort
Strong sound insulation improves quality of life by reducing noise transfer, providing privacy and peace of mind.
Quality Assurance
Testing provides a final stamp of quality, confirming your build meets modern standards for sound control and acoustic comfort.
What Happens During Acoustic Testing?
Jigsaw engineers perform a series of controlled on-site tests using calibrated sound sources and sensitive microphones:
Airborne Sound Tests – measure how well walls and floors block sound (speech, music, TV).
Impact Sound Tests – assess how much noise travels through floors from footsteps or impacts.
Testing typically takes 1–2 hours depending on the number of dwellings and rooms.
Our team provides:
Fully compliant reports recognised by building control.
Expert advice if results fall short, including practical fixes such as insulation upgrades or sealing gaps.
Benefits of Acoustic Testing
Compliance with Regulations
Approved Document E performance standards met with confidence.
Enhanced Market Appeal
Buyers and tenants value privacy and quieter homes.
Efficient Process
Quick testing with same-day or next-day report delivery available.
Professional Assurance
Conducted by UKAS-accredited engineers using calibrated equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Acoustic Testing
When Do You Need an Acoustic Test?
New-build houses and apartments with separating walls or floors.
Mixed-use buildings (e.g., flats above commercial units).
Conversions (e.g., offices to flats), which also fall under Part E regulations.
Testing is usually done at the end of construction, once finishes are in place but before occupancy.
What Are the Acoustic Requirements?
Approved Document E sets minimum standards:
Airborne sound insulation: ≥45 dB DnTw+Ctr (walls/floors).
Impact sound insulation: ≤62 dB L’nTw (floors).
Who Carries Out the Testing?
All testing is performed by qualified, UKAS-accredited engineers using calibrated equipment. Reports are accepted by local authority building control.
Our process is fast and straightforward.
Request a Free Quote
Contact us online or by phone to receive an instant estimate.
Book Your Appointment
We’ll arrange a convenient time to complete the test on-site.
Receive Your Report
Get a compliant acoustic report, with guidance if improvements are needed.
Simple and Convenient Scheduling
Ensure your new build passes all acoustic requirements with Jigsaw. We minimise disruption, keep projects on schedule, and provide expert support from start to finish.
Contact Us Today
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