Sound Test Failure Survey

If you have failed a part E sound test, then professional advice should be sought from an acoustic consultant before carrying out any remedial works. Sound Solution Consultants will take you through the sound test failure process step by step. Reviewing the failed test to confidently identify a solution. So, you can economically pass next time around.

Typical reasons for a failed part E sound test 

Failed sound tests are not always solely down to the separating construction. Sound tests measure both direct and indirect (flanking) sounds through a separating structure. Below is a list of typical reasons for failing a sound test. It could also be a combination of these not just one. 

•  Bridging an acoustic floor system with skirting. Or, screwing down the floor system. 
• Using an acoustic floor system that has insufficient mass or form. 
• Having the wrong density of block used in the construction of separating or flanking walls. 
• Build-up of mortar residue (on wall ties or mineral wool slab) in a masonry wall. 
• Incorrect type or length of wall ties in a masonry wall. 
• Separating wall not built to underside of floorboards before fitting ceiling system. 
• Separating wall is too thin or has insufficient mass and/or isolation. 
• Resilient bars missing or fitted incorrectly in a ceiling system. 
• Recessed lights have been fitted into an acoustic ceiling. 

How we conduct a sound test failure survey 

Firstly, we will need to conduct a sound test failure survey on site. It is extremely important that we are provided with the precise installation details on exactly what was installed. Not what should have been installed.  

 A sound test failure survey can include several office and site-based activities. To determine why your part E test failed: 

•  Review of part E test failure report(s). 
• Review of in-built construction methods and test reports. 
• Retesting of the building to identify where the sound test failure problem lies in-situ. 
• Opening inspection holes and using a borescope to see inside cavities. 
• Checking material components. 
• Visually inspecting detailing. 

How Sound Solution Consultants can help  

It can be time-consuming trying to identify the cause of a failed sound test. Therefore, it is always best to hire an experienced consultant. Our consultants have years of experience and will advise you on the best course of action to rectify any problems. Whilst keeping in mind the most cost-effective ways to resolve.  Our consultants are also members of the Institute of Acoustics. Which means that they are fully qualified and are kept up to date with all industry practices.   

Furthermore, once the remedial works have been completed. We can provide re-testing services*. Even if the original tests were carried out by a third party. 

Need advice?   

If you require advice on sound test failure surveys. You can call us, complete our  ’request a call back form’ or drop us an email at [email protected] . Our professional and knowledgeable team are here to help.      

*As an accredited laboratory under ISO 17025, please note that our acoustic consultancy and UKAS sound testing departments must remain impartial and independent from one another when providing both services for a single project.  The consultants involved with providing sound test failure advice then subsequent testing or reporting sign-off will be different at SSC as to present a level of impartiality between the advice and accredited tests.  Any rectification advice for a Part E test failure is outside the scope of accreditation.