If you’re involved in a new build or conversion project, you’ve likely come across the requirement for sound insulation testing. It’s a vital part of building compliance, helping ensure your development meets acoustic performance standards under Part E of the Building Regulations. But how much should you expect to pay – and what exactly is included?
In this guide, we’ll break down the typical sound insulation testing cost, explain the factors that affect pricing, and show you what to expect when you book a sound insulation test with Air Tightness Solutions.
For full details on what’s involved, see our noise testing services here.
Looking To Book A Sound Insulation Test?At Air Tightness Solutions, we offer fast, reliable sound insulation testing across the UK – with results and certification typically delivered within 24 hours. Whether you’re working on a new build or a conversion project, our experienced team is here to help you meet Part E compliance without delays. Request a free quote today or get in touch to discuss your project. |
What Is Sound Insulation Testing?
Sound insulation testing (also known as acoustic testing or sound testing) measures how effectively separating walls and floors reduce the transmission of airborne and impact noise between dwellings. It’s a legal requirement under Approved Document E for:
- New builds containing multiple dwellings (e.g. flats)
- Conversions where buildings are split into separate living units
- Semi-detached or terraced houses with shared walls
At Air Tightness Solutions, we provide UKAS-calibrated testing services to help ensure your property complies – and you get certified results you can rely on.
What Types of Sound Insulation Tests Are There?
There are two main types of sound insulation testing:
- Airborne Sound Tests – measure sound transmitted through the air (e.g. voices, music)
- Impact Sound Tests – measure structure-borne noise (e.g. footsteps on a floor)
Both are required under Part E for most developments.
Air Tightness Solutions offers both test types as part of our comprehensive service, delivered across the UK within 24 hours of booking.
Additional Acoustic Assessments
Certain property types — such as student accommodation, care homes, hospitals, and schools — may also require Environmental Acoustic Surveys, including Noise Sensitive Premises Assessments.
In contrast, commercial workplaces fall under the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, which set limits on noise exposure for employees (e.g. max 87dB). If you’re unsure which regulations apply to your project, our team can advise.
How Much Does Sound Insulation Testing Cost?
At Air Tightness Solutions, our pricing is clear, competitive, and tailored to your specific project.
Typical Pricing Guide (ex. VAT):
Project Type | Price Range |
Single dwelling / flat | From £250.00 |
Semi-detached property | £250.00 – £450.00 |
Small-to-medium developments | £450.00 – £850.00 |
Larger or multi-unit developments | Individually quoted |
All prices include all required tests in a single visit. We’ll always provide a fixed quote upfront, with no hidden fees.
Looking for bulk testing or multi-service deals?
We offer discounts for large developments and when booking sound, air, and ventilation tests together. Ask us for a custom quote tailored to your project.
What Affects the Cost of a Sound Insulation Test?
Several factors can impact sound insulation testing cost:
- Location – Travel time and distance from our nearest technician
- Property type and layout – More separating walls and floors = more tests
- Site readiness – Delays or difficult access can increase time on-site
- Retesting – If a property fails, follow-up testing is chargeable
- Urgent or out-of-hours testing – Available on request, may incur a fee
Nationwide Service
We offer UK-wide coverage and no regional pricing penalties — although remote locations may require additional travel charges. Just ask us for a transparent quote.
–
Get a Fast, Fixed Quote Today
At Air Tightness Solutions, we make acoustic compliance easy. Whether you’re managing a small conversion or a multi-dwelling development, our expert team will deliver fast, reliable testing — and help you meet your obligations without delays.
Click here to request a quote or speak to us about your project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most tests are completed within 1–2 hours, depending on the number of separating elements.
Rooms should be accessible, with no ongoing construction, and separating elements (walls/floors) should be complete. We’ll send full prep guidelines upon booking.
You’ll need to meet the minimum performance standards outlined in Approved Document E. We’ll confirm targets specific to your development.
We’ll advise on remedial steps and can re-test once changes are made. We also offer expert consultation to help you avoid a repeat fail.
Typically within 24 hours — same-day delivery is often available.
Our tests are carried out by qualified, experienced technicians using UKAS-traceable equipment and Part E-compliant procedures.
Sound insulation testing cost starts from £250 + VAT for a single dwelling. Prices for small developments range between £250–£850 + VAT, depending on the number of tests needed. Larger projects are individually quoted. At Air Tightness Solutions, we offer fixed, transparent pricing with certified results usually within 24 hours.