Stroma Built Environment are experienced acoustic consultants, providing comprehensive acoustic design and noise assessments across the UK. We also offer UKAS-accredited sound insulation testing services for a wide range of sectors and client projects. Check our UKAS accreditation for more information.
Acoustic Testing & Design Consultancy
Bringing an acoustic consultant into a construction project too late can mean last-minute changes or having to start over completely - hindering progress and increasing costs. Working with one from the beginning offers an accurate scope of considerations to focus on during the design stage and significantly reduces the risk of any future work having to be redone.
At Stroma, we provide acoustic consultancy services across the entire RIBA stages of a construction project. This includes initial strategy reviews and appraisals of architectural drawings for architects and design teams, and design advice with detailed Stage 3 and 4 design reviews.
Our sound testing services also cover noise assessments for Planning and noise and vibration chapters for Environmental Assessments. We will work to identify areas of concern or issue and provide detailed recommendations in accordance with Approved Document E.
Noise, Dust & Vibration Monitoring
Stroma works closely with clients to assess potential impacts, identify cost-effective strategies, and advise on appropriate methods of noise, dust and vibration monitoring and mitigation for demolition, construction, and infrastructure projects across the UK.
We provide professional consultancy under COPA Section 61 compliance, working to ensure our clients adhere to National Standards, Policy, and Planning Frameworks, Local Authority Planning Conditions, and any other environmental regulations or requirements.
We can help:
- Provide cost & time efficiencies by mitigating unnecessary costly restrictions & conditions
- Reduce the potential for complaints / claims from third parties that may lead to penalties / litigation
- Avoiding formal action that could lead to poor reputation / record & impact future tenders
Sound Insulation Testing
Sound insulation testing measures how much sound travels through a building's walls, floors, and ceilings. It's important to keep noise levels low to improve the quality of life for people living or working near the building.
During design stages, our acoustic consultants can evaluate proposed wall and floor construction details to identify the risks of non-compliance. Where appropriate, we will advise on improvements to meet Approved Document E and any other project-specific acoustic requirements.
We also provide comprehensive, UKAS-accredited sound insulation testing for pre-completed or existing buildings in accordance with Approved Document E regulations. If your building does not pass a sound insulation test, we will help to fix any identified issues in the most cost-effective way.
Why Choose Stroma for Acoustic Testing & Consultancy?
- Acoustic testing & design support throughout the construction lifecycle
- Acoustic experience across varied sectors, including education, residential, healthcare, commercial, retail & more
- A nationwide team to reduce lead times
- Regulatory compliance experts
- Sustainability-focused to achieve the best outcomes for clients & the environment
- Highly competitive fees
Frequently Asked Questions
What is acoustic testing?
Acoustic testing measures the transmission of noise through walls, floors, ceilings and other structures. Pre-completion sound testing is a mandatory requirement for Building Regulations Part E on domestic developments and for most commercial developments containing bedrooms (rooms for residential purposes).
This service is also a requirement for various other building types such as Schools (BB93), Hospitals (HTM 08-01) and often various other building types with strict acoustic performance criteria such as cinemas, theatres and auditoriums.
In addition, pre-completion acoustic testing can be carried out to achieve BREEAM credits within Hea 05.
What is a noise impact assessment?
A noise assessment typically involves predicting whether a proposed development or project will result in adverse impacts on the public and wildlife because of noise or vibrations.
Furthermore, the assessment can also determine the suitability of the site in relation to the impact of existing noise sources. Most assessments require a qualified acoustic consultant to visit your site and measure existing background noise levels.
How long does a noise assessment take?
Many noise assessments can take anywhere between a few days to a few months to complete. depending on the requirements and complexity of the project.
Who needs acoustic consultant services?
An acoustic consultant is required by anybody involved in the planning, design, and construction of a development. This would include local authorities, architects, M&E consultants, main contractors and sub-contractors.
At Stroma Built Environment, our acoustics consultants operate nationwide on a wide variety of projects throughout the RIBA stages.
Who may undertake an acoustic assessment?
Sound testing and noise assessments for planning, BREEAM and building regulations should be carried out by a Suitably Qualified Acoustician (SQA). The Stroma acoustic consultancy team is a member of the Institution of Acoustics and is SQA.
Stroma Built Environment and its team of experts are here ready to discuss a range of packages for any new project. Get in touch today!