Victorian conversions into smaller dwellings, apartments and flats are extremely popular. It makes financial sense for the developer looking to increase the rental footprint of the building or those wishing to split a larger property into smaller units.
However, in all situations the converted property will need to meet the Approved Document E sound insulation testing standards. This is a set of testing methods that determines that the floors and walls of the conversion meet the required Building Control standards for both airborne and impact noise transfer between the living spaces within the property.
We are yet to meet a developer who is not nervous about the sound insulation testing result, primarily because the testing occurs when the conversion is complete and a failed set of tests can result in expensive and time consuming corrections, consultancy, repeated sound insulation testing and loss of income whilst the property is being brought up to standard.
This nervousness is unjustified as Soundguard Acoustics can assist at every stage of the project to ensure that the flooring, wall, stairwells and other areas of the property are correctly designed to meet the sound insulation testing standards.
Just recently we have completed a project that we were first involved with 12 months ago. At the time the Victorian property was a run-down 6 bedroom property. The developer wished to convert the three floors into a commercial property on the ground floor and apartments on the first and second floor level. We reviewed the proposals with the architect, we provided flooring detail and partition advice as well as further advice in regards to shared chimneys, metal joists and other detail within the build. Soundguard Acoustics visited the property at key stages of the conversion and also provided over the phone advice for the developer when it was required. We liaised directly with Building Control and kept them informed of the acoustic design plan, the testing proposal and also met with them on site.
The project has now been completed and sound insulation testing performed. The property has fully met (and exceeded) the sound insulation standards and has achieved the initial scope of the developer. The sound test report was completed within 24 hours and released back to the client and the Building Control Officer. The cost of the acoustic advice, site visits, consultancy and liaison with Building Control throughout every stage of the project is similar to the price of a sound test.
When consideration is given to the huge costs involved in correcting a failed development and the loss of income, repeat testing and time involved then it makes perfect sense to involve acoustic consultants at the early stage of any development…. sound good?
If you would like further support with your conversion project and sound testing then please contact us.
