Noise problems in new builds

[PavRainu]

With the increasing high density developments, noise pollution has increased considerably in recent years to become one of the biggest environmental and building problems to date. The Government introduced new regulation in 2003 to combat the transfer of sound and improve the welfare of users. These Standards have been published in the Approved Document – Part E of the Building Regulation ‘Resistance to the passage of sound’. There are two methods to demonstrate compliance with the Building Regulations one being pre-completion testing and the other to use the RSD’s with the majority of house builders using the RSD’s. This clearly demonstrates that the building industry has embraced the RSD’s

The following questionnaire is part of a research that aims to scrutinise the efficacy of the Robust Standard Detail’s in order to determine if the system is meeting its objectives.

Please take out 5 -10 minutes of your time to fill out the questionnaire

Completed by:
Date:

Q 1: What are your attitudes towards sound transmission in newly constructed houses then those built 10, 20 years ago?

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Q2: When making the biggest purchase of your lives do you worry about being disturbed by noisy neighbours?

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Q3: Are you disturbed by noisy neighbours?

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Q4: Are disturbed by internal noise in your property through the walls or floors?

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Q5: Have you ever complained about sound transmission problem? If so who to and what was the outcome?

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Q6: Do you think the minimum db rating set out in the Approved Document – Part E of the Building Regulation ‘Resistance to the passage of sound’ is enough or does it need to increase?

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Q7: Do you know what Robust Details are?

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Q8: Do you think sound test are also required?

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Q9: Are the costs involved in using the Robust Details beneficial to the house user or house builder?

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Q10: Do you think the Robust Details is a loophole for house builders as using these details saves them money and time?

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Q11: What change might you suggest to improve the sound transmission in new built houses?

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Q12: Any other comments?

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[NewHomeExpert]

Noise is a common problem in new homes. It is essential that all new homes are sound-tested rather than relying on the robust details being properly executed.

Noise can be especially problematic in timber framed houses and flats.

All new home owners deserve to have as liitle noise from other neighbouring homes as possible. Who would like noise?